Arizona State University is the largest public university in the United States by enrollment and has been ranked the most innovative university in the country by US News for multiple consecutive years. ASU emphasizes access, interdisciplinary research, and entrepreneurship, with particularly strong programs in sustainability, engineering, business, and journalism.
Mascot: Sun Devil
Notable Alumni
Reggie Jackson (Baseball Hall of Famer)•David Spade (comedian and actor)•James Harden (NBA MVP)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
ASU's legendary party-school reputation has faded since its 2002 Playboy #1 ranking — the school now brands itself around innovation, not keggers — but the social scene remains massive and effortless thanks to 78,000+ in-person students, year-round sunshine, and Mill Avenue's bar strip. Greek life involves about 8-10% of undergrads and provides a social backbone without dominating; most students find their scene through clubs, rec sports, or the sheer density of people. Academics vary wildly by program — Barrett Honors and engineering are genuinely demanding, while other tracks are more forgiving.
Modern facilities and palm-lined walkways give ASU a clean, contemporary feel, though the sprawling Tempe campus lacks a cohesive architectural identity across its many buildings.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
ASU Police provide 24/7 patrols, late-night transportation, and electronic dorm access across the Tempe campus. Auto theft and property crime are the most common issues.
The Tempe area near ASU has elevated property crime rates and total crime well above national averages. The Mill Avenue entertainment district can see incidents during weekend nights.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Multiple days per week across all four campuses, scheduled on specific days/times
Duration: ~2 hours (information session + walking tour)
Two event types: Experience ASU and Sun Devil Day. Housing tours available on select days. Registration required before arriving. Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses — Tempe is hot.
Book a TourSelf-guided tours available at all campuses. Pick up materials at check-in locations or use the virtual tour online.
Tour ResourcesOctober through March when Tempe temperatures are mild (60s-80°F). Avoid May through September — campus tours in 110°F heat are brutal. Weekdays during fall/spring semester are best for seeing campus life in action.
Tempe campus: park in Lot 6 (free for registered visitors) or Fulton Center garage. Pay via ParkMobile app. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is 15 minutes away. Valley Metro Light Rail has a stop at University Dr/Rural Rd on the edge of campus. Allow 15 minutes to park and arrive at check-in 15 minutes early.
Location
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