When considering higher education, prospective students often compare different institutions to find the best fit for their academic, social, and financial needs. In this comparison, we will explore two prominent universities in Arizona: Northern Arizona University (NAU) and the University of Arizona (UA). We will look at various aspects of each institution, including costs, admissions, academics, diversity, and outcomes.
NAU Overview
Northern Arizona University, located in Flagstaff, is a public research institution founded in 1899. With a scenic mountain setting, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. NAU has a strong commitment to sustainability and research, with a focus on providing a high-quality education to its students.
NAU Costs & Tuition
Tuition at NAU varies depending on the student’s residency status. For in-state students, tuition and fees for the 2021-2022 academic year are approximately $11,896. Out-of-state students can expect to pay around $26,516. Additionally, room and board costs are estimated at $11,378 per year. Students can also explore various financial aid options to help offset these expenses.
NAU Admissions
Admissions at NAU are considered moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 85% in Fall 2020. Prospective students must submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and a completed application. Additional materials, such as letters of recommendation and personal essays, may also be required for certain programs.
NAU Degrees Offered
NAU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. Some popular majors include Business, Education, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and Biological and Biomedical Sciences.
NAU Academics
NAU is known for its strong emphasis on research and hands-on learning opportunities. The university’s research centers and institutes focus on areas such as environmental sustainability, climate change, and renewable energy. Additionally, students have access to numerous study abroad programs, internships, and research projects to enrich their academic experience.
NAU Diversity
With a diverse student population, NAU is committed to creating an inclusive campus environment. The university offers various programs and resources to support students from diverse backgrounds, including multicultural clubs, cultural centers, and academic support services.
NAU Students
NAU has a vibrant campus life, with over 400 student clubs and organizations to choose from. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities, such as Greek life, intramural sports, and community service projects.
NAU Campus
NAU’s picturesque campus is surrounded by the San Francisco Peaks, offering students a unique and scenic learning environment. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, research labs, and recreational facilities.
NAU Alumni
Notable NAU alumni include former Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, astronaut Mark Kelly, and professional basketball player Rodney Stuckey. Many graduates go on to pursue successful careers in various fields, such as education, business, and healthcare.
NAU Rankings
In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, NAU is ranked #284 in National Universities and #143 in Top Public Schools.
NAU Outcomes
According to NAU’s Office of Institutional Research, the 6-year graduation rate is 57%. Additionally, 84% of graduates are either employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
UA Overview
The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, is a public research institution founded in 1885. As a land-grant university, UA offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. The university is known for its strong research focus, particularly in areas such as astronomy, optics, and environmental science.
UA Costs & Tuition
For in-state students, tuition and fees at UA for the 2021-2022 academic year are approximately $12,715. Out-of-state students can expect to pay around $36,743. Room and board costs are estimated at $12,350 per year. Financial aid options, such as scholarships and grants, are available to help students cover these expenses.
UA Admissions
Admissions at UA are moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 85% in Fall 2020. Prospective students must submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and a completed application. Additional materials, such as letters of recommendation and personal essays, may also be required for certain programs.
UA Degrees Offered
The University of Arizona offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. Popular majors include Business, Engineering, Health Professions, Social Sciences, and Biological and Biomedical Sciences.
UA Academics
UA is recognized for its strong research focus and commitment to innovation. The university’s research centers and institutes contribute significantly to scientific advancements in areas such as space exploration, water resources, and renewable energy. Students also have access to various study abroad programs, internships, and research projects to enhance their academic experience.
UA Diversity
UA is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university offers numerous programs and resources to support students from diverse backgrounds, including cultural centers, multicultural clubs, and academic support services.
UA Students
With over 600 student clubs and organizations, UA provides a vibrant campus life for students to engage in various extracurricular activities. Students can participate in Greek life, intramural sports, and community service projects, among other opportunities.
UA Campus
Located in Tucson, UA’s campus offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments. The campus features modern facilities, such as state-of-the-art classrooms, research labs, and recreational facilities, as well as ample green spaces and parks.
UA Alumni
Notable UA alumni include journalist Savannah Guthrie, author David Foster Wallace, and astronaut Mark Kelly. Many graduates go on to pursue successful careers in fields such as engineering, business, and healthcare.
UA Rankings
In the 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings, UA is ranked #103 in National Universities and #46 in Top Public Schools.
UA Outcomes
According to UA’s Office of Institutional Research, the 6-year graduation rate is 65%. Additionally, 86% of graduates are either employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
NAU vs UA Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending NAU and UA, there are some differences to consider. For in-state students, tuition and fees at NAU ($11,896) are slightly lower than at UA ($12,715). However, out-of-state students pay significantly more at UA ($36,743) than at NAU ($26,516). Room and board costs are also slightly higher at UA ($12,350) compared to NAU ($11,378). Financial aid options are available at both institutions to help offset these costs.
NAU vs UA Admissions Difficulty
Both NAU and UA have moderately selective admissions processes, with acceptance rates of 85% for Fall 2020. Prospective students at both schools must submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and completed applications. Additional materials, such as letters of recommendation and personal essays, may be required for some programs. While both institutions have similar acceptance rates, the specific admissions requirements for individual programs may vary.
NAU vs UA Academic Difficulty
The academic difficulty of NAU and UA is subjective and depends on the specific program or major a student is pursuing. Both institutions have strong research focuses and offer a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. However, UA is generally considered to have a stronger emphasis on research, particularly in areas such as astronomy, optics, and environmental science. Students at both schools have access to various study abroad programs, internships, and research opportunities to enhance their academic experience.
NAU vs UA Outcome Comparison
Both NAU and UA have similar post-graduation outcomes for their students. NAU has a 6-year graduation rate of 57%, with 84% of graduates either employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. UA has a slightly higher 6-year graduation rate of 65%, and 86% of graduates find employment or continue their education within six months of graduation. While both institutions have positive outcomes for their graduates, UA has a slightly higher graduation rate and post-graduation success rate.
