Colleges in Arizona

Why go to College in Arizona?

Arizona features a relatively low cost of living and a large network of higher education -- everything from four-year public schools to online programs, from vocational schools to community colleges. Given that, you’re likely to find a community of fellow students, no matter whether you’re on a traditional four-year path, taking vocational classes part-time, or enrolled in online courses.

In addition, because of the large Hispanic population in Arizona, the state’s higher education system also offers programs in Spanish and financial support for young people affected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA Act).

Population

About 6.9 million people live in Arizona, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Three of the biggest college towns in Arizona may more appropriately be called cities rather than towns: Phoenix (which has a population of about 1.6 million); Tempe (a city just east of Phoenix with a population of about 182,000); and Tucson (about half a million people live there).

Climate

Arizona, as you may have guessed, is hot and dry. In Phoenix and Tempe, where many schools are located, the average temperature lingers above 100 degrees Fahrenheit throughout most of the summer. The state's winters are temperate, averaging about 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Number of Higher Learning Institutions

155 institutions of higher education call Arizona home. Many of them are community colleges or online colleges in Arizona.

Sporting Events

Arizona has several professional sports teams: the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team, the Phoenix Suns basketball team, the Arizona Cardinals football team, and the Arizona Coyotes hockey team. Plus, if you have school spirit and you decide to attend a four-year college like Arizona State University, get ready to support the Arizona State Sun Devils.

Nightlife

Since Arizona's cost of living is relatively low, students can find plenty of affordable bars and clubs in cities like Phoenix and Tempe.

What Options are Available for Colleges in Arizona?

Popular Degree Programs in Arizona

A college’s top programs and majors generally reflect popular industries in that college’s state. For instance, Arizona is known for industries like aerospace and defense, technology, and manufacturing -- and students can certainly find those programs at colleges and universities in Arizona.

• Aerospace engineering

  Professionals working in aerospace engineering design build aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles, often for national defense. The U.S. military administers several bases and conducts research on aerospace products in Arizona, so it's no surprise that the industry enjoys such a major presence in the state.

• Business management and administration

  While aerospace engineering might be unique to the state, business management and administration is a popular major across the U.S. -- including Arizona. Students who pursue this major can work in a variety of fields involving money and leadership, from financial managers to sales administrators.

Best Online Colleges in Arizona for 2019

Here you’ll find a list of the best online colleges in Arizona. Finding an online school in Arizona is not a one-size-fits-all process. Keep in mind that just because an online college in Arizona is ranked number one doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for you. You must also consider your educational needs (such as costs, time commitment, and how much time you’d like to spend connecting with your professor). In addition, programs are ranked differently from school to school. If you’d like to study engineering, for instance, enrolling in an online college in Arizona where English literature is ranked number one might not be the best idea.

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1	Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ		ADMISSIONS RATE 77% GRADUATION RATE 52% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20% RETENTION RATE 74% DEFAULT RATE 9% Since 1899, NAU has been a center of academic and research excellence. The school offers innovative degree programs through NAU Online, with most classes delivered asynchronously via the Blackboard Learn LMS. NAU offers 46 bachelor’s degrees online, including justice studies, computer information technology, social work, and nursing. Like many other online colleges in Arizona, NAU also offers graduate level coursework, including 24 master’s degrees and one doctoral degree. Some of NAU’s degree programs, such as the BBA in business administration and the BSED in career and technical education, offer several concentrations. The BS in health science program offers specializations in paramedic care, surgical technology, and medical assisting. Distance learners can access online library resources, technical support, and tutoring through the Student Learning Centers.	Visit Site
2	University of Arizona Tucson, AZ		ADMISSIONS RATE 76% GRADUATION RATE 61% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 5% RETENTION RATE 80% DEFAULT RATE 7% UA says that it is “a place without limits,” a center of cutting-edge research that fosters innovation in and out of the classroom. Students can choose from more than 80 online degrees, including bachelor’s degrees in psychology, administration of justice, business administration, and communication. This online school in Arizona also offers unique baccalaureate programs such as the BS in care, health, and society, a program designed to delve into the sociological dimensions of healthcare. The bachelor of general studies in economy and industry educates students in labor relations, organizational culture, industries, and human resources. Enrollment counselors help potential students with the applications process.	Visit Site
3	Arizona State University-Tempe Tempe, AZ		ADMISSIONS RATE 83% GRADUATION RATE 66% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 2% RETENTION RATE 86% DEFAULT RATE 7% Students who enroll at ASU Online receive the academic rigor that the institution is known for and the flexibility to take classes on their own time. Online degrees are offered in fields such as art history, community health, criminology and criminal justice, engineering, and nursing. The school’s BA in business has several concentrations, including corporate accounting, global leadership, and retail management. One of the top online colleges in Arizona, ASU Online provides learners with extensive support, including online tutoring. Each student has access to success coaches who serve as advisors, cheerleaders, and success coaches. Students in the military receive additional support and assistance.	Visit Site
4	Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Prescott, AZ		ADMISSIONS RATE 79% GRADUATION RATE 59% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 0% RETENTION RATE 77% DEFAULT RATE N/A% Embry-Riddle was one of the first colleges to offer distance learning back in the 1970s. Since then, the school has provided students with top educational training in fields such as aeronautics and engineering. The Prescott campus in Arizona offers online certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees. Some of the school’s online bachelor’s degrees include aviation maintenance, emergency services, unmanned systems applications, and safety management. Courses are delivered in nine week sessions; 12 terms are offered each year for undergraduate programs. The school works with students to develop a map of study to ensure they graduate on time.	Visit Site

Best Online Community Colleges in Arizona for 2019

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1	Cochise County Community College District Douglas, AZ		GRADUATION RATE 21%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20%	RETENTION RATE 63%	DEFAULT RATE 17%	Cochise County Community College District offers more than a dozen associate degree and certificate programs online. This school has more than 2,500 distance learners enrolled online. Courses are taught using a synchronous format, with specified beginning and complete dates, scheduled homework, and weekly activities. Cochise is among the many online community colleges in Arizona to offer a variety of continuing education courses, adult education and GED programs, and K-12 community outreach opportunities. Earned credits transfer seamlessly to all Arizona public, four-year universities and many out-of-state schools. Cochise prides itself on strong relationships with local and national businesses, which offer co-op and internship opportunities in various popular industries in the region. Upon completion of a degree, all learners develop the essential communication, critical thinking, and technological skills that are necessary for success in their fields.	Visit Site
2	Yavapai College Prescott, AZ		GRADUATION RATE 27%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 17%	RETENTION RATE 56%	DEFAULT RATE 21%	Established in 1965, Yavapai College is located in Prescott. The school offers a wide range of online options, including associate of applied science degrees in automotive technology and general education curriculum certificates. Yavapai has something for virtually any prospective distance learner. The college offers an attractive number of benefits to their student community. Prospective students interested in fine arts and performing arts can find world-class resources online and facilities on-campus, including the performing arts center, Richard Marcusen Sculpture Garden, and an art gallery. Yavapai offers financial aid in several forms, including merit-based and need-based scholarships, as well as tribal scholarships for Native American students.	Visit Site
3	Phoenix College Phoenix, AZ		GRADUATION RATE 16%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 12%	RETENTION RATE 61%	DEFAULT RATE 21%	Established in 1920, Phoenix College is the flagship school of the Maricopa Community Colleges, one of the largest community college systems in the nation. Phoenix College offers three online associate degrees and eight certificates. Hybrid courses are also available for some majors. Class content is delivered through Canvas. Prospective students should take the online readiness test, offered on the Phoenix College website, to determine their level of preparedness for these online programs. Through a career services department, as part of Maricopa Community Colleges network, Phoenix College offers supportive resources for students preparing to enter the workforce or alumni searching for positions. This school is among many online community colleges in Arizona to provide financial aid in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, and federal work study programs.	Visit Site
4	Pima Community College Tucson, AZ		GRADUATION RATE 14%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 12%	RETENTION RATE 63%	DEFAULT RATE 22%	With online degree and certificate offerings in health information technology, business, human resources, and education, Pima provides distance learners with a supportive online learning environment that prides itself on preparing students for a successful career. Located in Tucson and founded in 1969, Pima boasts a flexible scheduling system that gives students the option to take self-paced courses and synchronous, participatory courses that rely on group learning. Students may also choose five-, eight-, 10-, or 14-week class schedules, as well as weekend-only schedules. This online community college in Arizona is committed to making a difference in its local community and offers traditional and distance learners opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities and student organizations.	Visit Site
5	Mesa Community College Mesa, AZ		GRADUATION RATE 13%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 12%	RETENTION RATE 61%	DEFAULT RATE 21%	Mesa Community College is nationally recognized for service-learning, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative approaches to higher education. The college serves as a resource for career readiness, transfer education, workforce development and lifelong learning. Host to more than 30,000 students annually, MCC offers more than 150 degree and certificate programs at its two campuses and additional locations. Online degree and certificate programs offered at MCC center around business management, computer science, and communications concentrations, with specialized degrees offered in each category. MCC is an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution with a diverse student body that enriches the learning experience. Renowned faculty are dedicated to student success, providing the education and training that empowers MCC students to compete locally and nationally. MCC, located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, is one of 10 colleges comprising the Maricopa County Community College District.	Visit Site
6	Mohave Community College Kingman, AZ	GRADUATION RATE 21%	ONLINE ENROLLMENT 19%	RETENTION RATE 49%	DEFAULT RATE 33%	Mohave Community College offers an expansive online program. Located in the northwest corner of the state in Colorado City, and founded in 1970, MCC's online degrees are delivered in asynchronous and synchronous formats. Online offerings include several liberal arts degrees and paralegal and counseling certificates. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts or GED to complete the online application. Learners may participate in student activities and special interest groups remotely and on campus. Several Greek life chapters and science and computer programming clubs bring extracurricular opportunities for community outreach, leisure, career networking, and general academic enrichment for MCC students.	Visit Site

Education Trends in Arizona

In many ways, higher education trends in Arizona are on par with the rest of the U.S. Consider the percentage of adults with associate degrees (8.5% in Arizona, 8.1% in the U.S.) and the percentage of adults with graduate degrees (10.2% in Arizona, 11.2% in the U.S.). Take a look at the table below to see how Arizona stacks up with the rest of the U.S.

Paying for College in Arizona

Say you find the perfect college. Great! But now you have to figure out how to pay for it. College costs are an important factor as anything else, if not moreso. Ultimately, college is an investment -- a large investment, and one that costs significant money. So, while you’re on the hunt for that perfect college program, consider tuition prices as well as the general cost of living in Arizona. More details about both can be found below.

Tuition Prices

Tuition prices in Arizona vary greatly. The average price of tuition for a public two-year college in Arizona is less than the U.S. average, while the average price for a four-year college is actually greater than the U.S. average. Remember, those pesky "extra" costs -- like books, transportation, and lodging -- are not included in these fees.

Financial Aid

Getting to know your financial aid options is one way to lessen the financial burden that comes along with attending college in Arizona. Luckily, there are several types of financial aid available for students who are willing to do the research. Everyone should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. As the name suggests, it’s free, so it will cost you nothing to see if you qualify for federal loans. You can also apply for loans, scholarships, and grants. Unlike loans, students do not have to repay scholarships and grants after college. Plus, scholarships and grants come from several different sources -- private funds, states, and the colleges themselves.

Cost for Online Programs in Arizona

The sticker prices for online programs tend to be similar to prices of on-campus programs. But online programs are still generally more affordable because they are not burdened with extra costs. Students can save on those pesky supplementary fees, such as transportation costs, technology fees, gym fees, the shockingly steep cost of textbooks, and childcare.

Here’s some more good news: Financial aid applies to online schools in Arizona too. Students can apply whatever money they earn from FAFSA, loans, scholarships, and grants to their online programs.

Cost of Living by Region

Your cost of living will depend on where exactly you live (a shocking revelation, right?). But where you live while you study in college will also affect how much money you pay in tuition and how much money you’re able to save up during college -- which will be an enormous factor once you start your career after graduating college. Below is a table comparing cost of living in Tempe, Tucson, and Phoenix, three large college towns in Arizona. The table also includes two cities nearby, should you choose to to earn your degree online. Notice the difference in rent costs between L.A. and Phoenix. It may be worth moving to a city in Arizona, even if your degree program is with an online school in Arizona.

Scholarships for Arizona College Students

Dorrance Scholarship Program

Up to $12,000 annually, renewable for eight semesters; must be a first-generation college student and demonstrate financial need, and must have attended an Arizona high school with at least a 3.0 GPA to apply.

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Community Foundation for Southern Arizona scholarships

$3,000 for study at a four-year school and $1,000 for study at a two years school; must have graduated from a high school in southern Arizona, must be studying full-time, and must have a minimum 2.5 GPA.

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Horatio Alger Association Scholarship for Arizona

$10,000; The Horatio Alger Association is offering scholarships for graduates of Arizona high schools who "display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity."

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The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona

Up to $3,000; must be an Arizona resident working toward a vocational degree, and must demonstrate financial need.

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Isac Amaya University Scholarship

Up to $5,000, must be a graduate of an Arizona high school and planning to attend an Arizona college; must be Mexican or of Mexican descent; available to those affected by the DACA Act.

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College Success Arizona Scholarships

Up to $6,000 per year and mentoring; must be a member of an Arizona College Access Partner (including the Boys and Girls Club, College Bound Arizona, or one of several other partners), and must be a graduate of an Arizona high school.

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Northern Arizona Native American Foundation Scholarship

Up to $2,000; Must be a Native American and fill out an extensive online application with questions including, “What does being a Native American mean to you?”

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Arizona College Access Aid Program

Up to $2,000; the student must be a sophomore, junior, or senior at their institution and must demonstrate need for financial aid.

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Can All Scholarships Be Used for Online Programs?

Students can use most scholarships with any type of program, including online schools in Arizona. There are some exceptions, such as the Rotary Fund scholarship above, which is solely for vocational programs. You should check with the scholarship provide to verify whether scholarship funds can be used for both in-person and online schools in Arizona.

Employment Outlook in Arizona

Although the unemployment rate in Arizona is slightly higher than in the rest of the U.S., economists and social scientists are convinced that things are looking up. From 2014 to 2024, jobs are expected to grow from 2,728,012 to 3,305,324 -- that’s an increase of over half a million jobs in 10 years, or a growth rate of 21.2%. To put that in perspective, the employment rate in the rest of the U.S. is projected to grow at 6.5%, a fraction of Arizona’s rapid growth.

Top Employers and Industries in Arizona

Accreditation for Colleges in Arizona

Students are wise to seek out accredited schools. Outside agencies review colleges to ensure that students receive a legitimate education, one that follows accepted standards. In short, accreditation ensures that college students aren’t being scammed. The most well-respected accrediting agencies in the U.S. are regional accreditors. The U.S. is divided into six regions, and each agency covers one of those six regions.

National accreditation agencies, on the other hand, focuses on a specific type of institution. For instance, one national accrediting agency might only review therapy schools, while another national accrediting agency might only review religious schools.

Online programs are accredited by the same organizations that accredit traditional four-year schools. Don’t be fooled when you find an online college in Arizona that is not accredited. Online programs are held to the very same standards as their offline counterparts.

If you want to be sure that an online school in Arizona is accredited, make sure that the accreditation organization has been approved by a government higher education agency like the Arizona State Board for Postsecondary Education. Arizona is also under the regional jurisdiction of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools -- check to see if your online college in Arizona is accredited by this agency.