Public Universities in Arizona

I'm currently researching schools for early planning. How do the public universities in Arizona stack up to each other? Anything I should keep an eye out for?

Sure! Arizona has three main public universities that are quite distinct from each other, providing a range of options depending on your preferences and academic goals: the University of Arizona (UA), Arizona State University (ASU), and Northern Arizona University (NAU).

The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, is known for its strong programs in the sciences, including Pharmacy, Nursing, and Engineering. Its admission process is holistic but they emphasize academic achievement. If you're interested in research, UA might be a good fit since it's also a member of the Association of American Universities, a group of 65 universities in the U.S. and Canada recognized for their strong research focus.

Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe is the largest of the three in terms of student population. It has a robust Honors College (Barrett, The Honors College) and has been recognized for its innovation and commitment to inclusivity. ASU offers more than 350 undergraduate programs, so you'll have a lot of options here. Also noteworthy is their commitment to sustainability; they have numerous "green" initiatives campus-wide.

Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff is smaller than the other two, providing a more intimate learning environment. It's known for its Education, Forestry, and Hotel/Restaurant Management programs. With its location near the mountains, it offers different extra-curricular possibilities, like skiing and other outdoor activities.

All three universities offer a variety of extracurriculars and have energetic sports scenes with NCAA Division I teams, so think about your non-academic interests as well when comparing. Remember to consider financial factors too—each university offers different scholarships and financial aid packages, so look into those opportunities.

Ultimately, it's a balance of academic programs, location, size, and culture that will best fit your needs. Consider visiting the campuses or reaching out to current students or alumni to get a sense of every school's vibe. Good luck with your college search!