Arizona State University (ASU) stands as a monumental force in American higher education, distinguished not only by its immense scale but also by its relentless pursuit of innovation and inclusivity. As one of the largest public universities in the United States by enrollment, ASU has redefined the traditional university model under the leadership of President Michael M. Crow, who introduced the vision of a “New American University” upon his appointment in 2002.
One University, Many Places
Central to ASU’s modern identity is its multi-campus structure, described as “one university in many places.” This model ensures that while the university is vast, each campus maintains a distinct academic focus and character. The historic Tempe campus, the largest of the locations, serves as the primary research and graduate studies hub, offering a vibrant, traditional college experience. The Downtown Phoenix campus is deeply integrated with the urban core, housing programs in journalism, law, public service, and health solutions. The West Valley campus in Glendale focuses on interdisciplinary arts and sciences, while the Polytechnic campus in Mesa emphasizes hands-on learning in technology and engineering fields. This physical footprint is complemented by ASU Online, a robust digital immersion program that serves over 74,000 students globally, making education accessible far beyond Arizona’s borders.
An Academic and Research Powerhouse
ASU’s commitment to academic excellence is underscored by its classification as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity” institution and its prestigious membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU), an organization of elite research universities. According to its Wikipedia page, the university offers an extensive catalog of over 400 undergraduate and 450 graduate degree programs across its 16 colleges. For nine consecutive years, *U.S. News & World Report* has ranked ASU as the #1 most innovative school in the nation, ahead of institutions like MIT and Stanford. This recognition reflects its forward-thinking approach to curriculum, faculty development, and student success.
The university’s research enterprise is a significant driver of its reputation, with research expenditures totaling $673 million in fiscal year 2020. ASU is a NASA-designated national space-grant institute and is among the top 10 universities for NASA-funded research. Its interdisciplinary research centers, such as the Biodesign Institute, have been at the forefront of public health advancements, including the development of a saliva-based COVID-19 test. The Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability leads efforts to address critical environmental challenges, further cementing ASU’s role as a solutions-focused institution.
The Sun Devil Spirit
Beyond the classroom and laboratory, ASU boasts a rich and spirited campus life, anchored by its athletic programs and cherished traditions. The Arizona State Sun Devils compete in 26 varsity sports in the NCAA Division I Big 12 Conference. The university’s athletic teams have secured 24 NCAA team championships in sports ranging from baseball to women’s golf and track and field. The iconic mascot, Sparky the Sun Devil, energizes fans at sporting events, embodying the university’s fiery spirit.
Deeply rooted traditions foster a strong sense of community among the vast student body. One of the oldest is the Lantern Walk, where students, faculty, and alumni climb “A” Mountain—a butte overlooking the Tempe campus marked with a giant gold letter “A”—to light up the Tempe skyline. This event, along with vibrant homecoming celebrations and the unique “Curtain of Distraction” at basketball games, unites generations of Sun Devils. This spirit is guided by the university’s charter, which states ASU is “measured not by whom we exclude, but by whom we include and how they succeed,” a principle that continues to shape its path as a leader in modern higher education.
