Arizona State University (ASU) stands as a beacon of innovation and academic excellence, a vibrant public research powerhouse located in Tempe, Arizona. Established in 1885, ASU has evolved from a small normal school into one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the United States, renowned for its dynamic approach to education and research. As an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity," ASU is consistently pushing the boundaries of discovery and knowledge.
Prospective students will discover a vast academic landscape at ASU, offering over 400 undergraduate and more than 450 graduate degree and certificate programs across its 16 colleges and over 170 cross-discipline centers. The university prides itself on a distinguished faculty, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows, fostering an environment of intellectual rigor and cutting-edge inquiry. This extensive network provides unparalleled opportunities for students to engage in meaningful research and develop expertise in their chosen fields.
Life at ASU is an immersive experience, blending rigorous academics with a spirited campus culture. Home to the Sun Devils, ASU competes in 26 varsity-level sports within the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference, boasting an impressive record of 165 national championships and 60 Olympic medals. Beyond sports, students benefit from a diverse community and state-of-the-art facilities across its multiple campuses and regional learning centers, ensuring a rich and engaging college journey focused on preparing future leaders and innovators.
From its humble beginnings as the Territorial Normal School at Tempe in 1885, founded to train teachers for the burgeoning Arizona Territory, ASU has undergone a remarkable transformation. Over the decades, through various name changes and expansions, it steadily broadened its mission, adding comprehensive bachelor's degrees and eventually achieving university status in 1958 by popular vote. This enduring legacy of growth and adaptation underscores ASU's commitment to serving its community and advancing higher education.