2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in the Phoenix Area

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  617 reviews

Freshman: Overall I think my student child would have preferred to be in Tempe, although housing seems better. Access to classes in proximity to dorms is great. Parking is limited & pricyley. Cafeteria comfort level ok. The AC wasn't working the last few weeks and requesting carryout costs 6.00! Finally, talk of a plethora of scholarship money out there easily accessible to the ASU website is true. Yet, when applying not a single confirmed positive hit has been reveived. (Still applying and for my student as well. ) Seems that a lot scholarships have strict qualifications, and for Pell grant recipients. However, if Pell grant earners have free money, why would they be prioritized to receive even more free money for college. The system seems unfair. College costs and fafsa awards are not geared for hard working middle /working class families. Rather they're punished by having to take out large loans and not prioritized equally for scholarships.... Read 617 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $13,764

• SAT range 1080-1270

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  10,134 reviews

Freshman: I've heard great things about Grand Canyon University! Some of my friends who have attended the school have raved about the friendly and supportive community, the beautiful campus, and the wide range of academic programs available. From what I understand, the faculty and staff at GCU are committed to helping students succeed, both academically and personally, which is really important for a positive college experience. Additionally, GCU offers a lot of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and leadership roles, which can be a great way to make new friends and build valuable skills. Overall, I think Grand Canyon University is a great choice for students who are looking for a supportive and engaging college experience.... Read 10,134 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $21,644

• SAT range —

• Tempe, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  11,633 reviews

Senior: As a returning student with a full time career it was important to me that the university of choice was flexible with my schedule. I originally was at SMC where they offered many courses online during the pandemic but unfortunately shifted into primarily on site courses in 2022. Because of this shift it made it extremely difficult for working students like myself to get into any courses without compromising my work (aka what is paying for college). Determined to keep pursuing my dreams I researched and found that 99.9% of ASU's Biology curriculum was offered online. They made it super easy to transfer and accepted majority of my credits. Because they offer bigger classes, it was much easier to sign up for courses. Although the price is much higher than a community college, it was worth the it!... Read 11,633 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $14,653

• SAT range 1100-1320

• Glendale, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  348 reviews

Senior: In my opinion, Arizona State University is the embodiment of my pride as a native to this great state! Overall, my experience these last four years has been eye-opening. I've have been presented the wonderful opportunity of becoming a part of the ASU community and as a result, have established friendships and networks that will benefit me for a lifetime. The education and teaching staff are as accommodating as it comes, and never hesitate to alter their teaching styles for the benefit of their students individual needs. I have had the pleasure of attending both online and in-person classes, both of which have a rigorous schedule that is equally challenging as it is rewarding. While the West campus is where I call home, Tempe is no less inviting and entertaining. Parking is the only challenge I have faced, but no less than any other in a big city. As long as you stay informed and up to date, you can find all the best spots easily enough!... Read 348 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $9,349

• SAT range 1040-1270

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  106 reviews

Alum: I really enjoyed getting my education from University of Phoenix - Arizona! The staff was wonderful and very understanding. I was actually given a chance to do it right. I still had rules I had to follow, and the work was sometimes challenging. But who wants to be given a degree? Nobody, people want to earn them. I am thinking about going back to finish with my Bachelor's degree.... Read 106 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,245

• SAT range —

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.49 out of 5  195 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, I've really liked my experience with ASU Online! Even though all the courses are online, you have an appointed success coach, professors, and teaching assistants who all really do want to see you succeed. I have never felt like I was getting a lesser educational experience because my classes were online. ASU really makes an effort to make their online courses engaging, and in a lot of the classes I've been in, discussions were utilized to make sure that you can be connected with the other students in the course. Another nice part about ASU online is that, if you're near campus, you can participate in events just like an on-campus student would be able to. I will say that the classes are very reliant on the students being self motivated to complete their coursework, watch lectures, and make connections with others, which can be difficult if that's not what you're used to. However, for me, the positives of ASU Online really do outweigh any negatives!... Read 195 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $14,568

• SAT range —

• Mesa, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,987 reviews

Sophomore: It was very good. I took live online classes because it was in COVID times, but it was still good given the circumstances and the affordability of it. I was happy with it, and basically the only things I would improve would be to make sure the students are understanding and don't have questions before moving on and on from lesson to lesson. I experienced this in my math class. I had straight A's in all of my classes--except for math class. This happened both semesters of the year I did college online in COVID times. The professors at this school were all quite good, I was happy with them. Most of them were very competent and good at explaining and teaching, and even the few that weren't seemed to care a lot about the well-being of the students, and be sympathetic to our situation with all the COVID online weirdness going on. If they hadn't handled that situation so gracefully, I doubt I'd even want to return to MCC. As it is, I am excited to go back this semester!... Read 1,987 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,733

• SAT range —

• Glendale, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,641 reviews

Freshman: My experience at GCC has been nothing but excellent! Ever since enrolling in Fall of 2022, I have been so happy to be in as positive of an environment as this one. I make the drive to main campus, even though it’s a little further out of my way, because I love the energy on the campus, not to mention how well kept and aesthetically pleasing it is! The professors are so professional and personable. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that they put in to make this college experience the best it can be. My academic advisor always has an answer to any question I have and I couldn’t feel more supported!... Read 1,641 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,810

• SAT range —

• Chandler, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,131 reviews

Alum: My experience at Chandler-Gilbert Community College was an amazing one. I don’t even know where to begin! I took so many different courses and learned exactly what I needed to and more. My journey of earning my Associates degree in Arts and my Associates in Science degree was filled with so much joy and I met so many incredible people along the way. There was never a boring day on the campus. The instructors are amazing, there are so many nice and kind students, and I’m so grateful for all of the friendships that I have made. There are several programs and clubs that just get you involved and filled with Coyote spirit. Even the Zoom class meetings that I experienced were helpful. If there was anything that I had to say about the improvement of the college, it would just simply be to continue spreading wisdom, kindness and excellence to whoever attends. I’m so glad that I attended this college and I’m even more thankful for all it helped me achieve!... Read 1,131 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,311

• SAT range —

• Avondale, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  964 reviews

Freshman: I absolutely love my time at Estrella Mountain Community College! The vibrant and supportive community here has made my learning experience truly exceptional. The dedicated faculty and staff create an engaging and enriching environment, while the range of courses and resources available have helped me thrive in my academic pursuits. The campus itself is beautiful, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiration. Overall, my time at Estrella Mountain Community College has been incredibly enjoyable, and I'm grateful for the opportunities it has provided me to learn and grow.... Read 964 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,724

• SAT range —

• Tempe, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  503 reviews

Freshman: Rio Salado College is amazing! It is a great way to get college credit through high school. The instructors are invested in helping you succeed, and there to help you every step of the way. The Rio Salado College website is easy to use and helps you navigate all of your classes. Also, if you have any questions, you can call and talk to the very nice representatives that are trained to take care all of your needs. Rio Salado College is great, I have recommended it to all my friends and family!... Read 503 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,426

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,178 reviews

Sophomore: After two semesters at PC I can say that I am EXTREMELY happy about choosing this community college as my reentrance into college life as an "adult learner". After a hiatus from school due to health and financial reasons, it took the pandemic to put things into perspective and remind me of what I truly value and enjoy in life: my education. Since enrolling at PC I've found real personal and professional success and have been pleasantly surprised at how many resources the college makes available to it's student body, the extracurriculars and community involvement opportunities (I, myself, have participated in PC's business club, Model UN, the region's #1 PTK honors society, DEI facilitator training, flexible work opportunities, and choir!) and an incredibly knowledgeable staff that is earnestly interested in preparing us for success in the next steps in our careers- whether that be getting certifications, associate degree, or transferring to a fantastic university. Highly recommend!... Read 1,178 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,461

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  615 reviews

Sophomore: PVCC is a great school to start your college journey. The classes are affordable, the campus is easy to navigate, and the professors are usually pretty great. When deciding on a degree path, the advisors are excellent at helping you get on track. My last two semesters there were a bit confusing and I was having difficulty figuring out what classes I needed to sign up for so that I could properly transfer my credits to the graduate school I chose. My academic advisor was thorough and replied to my messages quickly. He made sure I was on the right track and everything has gone through correctly. The counseling office was also helpful. Classes and home life tend to be stressful for me, but having access to professionals in counseling that I could meet with for free was a blessing to me. I felt assured by them and my professors were accommodating when I talked to them about it. Of course, there's always at least one or two professors that will be difficult, but most were great to have!... Read 615 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,198

• SAT range —

• Scottsdale, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  537 reviews

Graduate Student: The campus is clean and very easy to navigate through. All my teachers were very understanding and kept the communication very clear and open. I feel blessed to have had not only great teachers but a nice well kept college close to home. From the FinAid to registration personnel all Departments were accommodating and courteous! As an older college student juggling being a mom, wife and student working full time, the classes were very accommodating. I’m sad I can’t stay here at SCC for the upcoming School year! As I got accepted at PCC for nursing. I hope to have a similar experience at PCC in the Fall 2022.... Read 537 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,196

• SAT range —

• Coolidge, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  669 reviews

Freshman: Central Arizona College has always been a reliable college. They offer plenty of resources for all their students, are very affordable, and give every student a chance. CAC has caring and amazing teachers of all types who always accommodate your needs. CAC is an excellent college! I'm proud to be a Vaquero!... Read 669 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,933

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  543 reviews

Sophomore: Unfortunately in the short term of attending GateWay Community College for one semester in the Evening Nursing Program, I had very little time to grasp all of what the college had to offer throughout the day, due to working night shifts and living 30 minutes away. Though a couple of things I enjoyed how well organize the campus was. Maps are provided and if that was not enough, staff was always more than willing to give easy directions to where you needed to be. Campus was always clean and quiet, no distractions out of the norm. One thing I would like to see change is the availability of library hours, due to needing educational resources such as books, private study rooms, etc. before attending class at 6PM.... Read 543 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,761

• SAT range —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  639 reviews

Junior: As a junior in college, my educational journey began with dual enrollment classes at South Mountain Community College (SMCC). One of the standout features that initially drew me to SMCC was its commitment to providing online classes, SMCC made sure to cater to students like me who value the flexibility and convenience of remote learning. What truly sets SMCC apart, though, is the staff's exceptional preparedness for teaching online. In a world that has rapidly shifted towards digital education, SMCC's faculty seems to have seamlessly transitioned to this mode of instruction. Their dedication to delivering high-quality online education is evident in the way they engage with students, provide clear instructions, and create a supportive virtual learning environment. SMCC should expand scholarship opportunities to benefit online students, promoting equitable access to education.... Read 639 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,960

• SAT range —

• Surprise, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  18 reviews

Freshman: The classes are great and I love the 8-week schedule because it allows you to focus on less classes at a time. The school is mostly made up of athletes, which makes it difficult to fit in and make friends if you are not an athlete. Many students have complained about their roommates, but that could be an issue anywhere. Overall, I would say if you are an athlete, this school would be great for you. It is a Christian university, but as a non-Christian, I would say it is not a super religious place. The only thing is that there is an assembly every Wednesday that can be boring and uninteresting to a non-Christian.... Read 18 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 31%

• Net price $32,741

• SAT range 860-1090

• Phoenix, AZ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  54 reviews

Freshman: I just started my fall classes at Ottawa University and I'm in the football program with a football scholarship. I'm having a great time with all my new friends and I love the football program. It's pushing me to the next level, but that's what I signed up for. I'm not afraid of hard work and I even just made 2nd string as a freshman.... Read 54 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate —

• Net price —

• SAT range —