Selecting a School
Postsecondary Education Options
When it comes to education after high school, you’ve got options! Did you know there are over 90 in-state school options for Arizona students to earn a certificate, associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree after high school? Learn about some of the options available.
Community Colleges
Community colleges typically offer two-year programs leading to the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree. Many also offer certificate/vocational programs. Community college can be a more affordable option for earning credits before transferring to a university.
Learn more about Arizona’s community colleges.
Universities
Universities offer undergraduate and graduate programs for earning a bachelor, master or doctoral degree. It typically takes four years to complete a bachelor's degree through a university. A university education typically provides knowledge, theory and thinking skills. Many jobs that require a lot of background knowledge and thinking skills require a university degree.
Vocational Schools & Apprenticeships
Vocational, or trade schools, help you learn skills and certificates relevant to specific job types. Some examples include culinary, cosmetology, mechanical and automotive and health care schools. Many community colleges also offer vocational programs.
Apprenticeships are typically offered by employers to develop and prepare their future workforce. They provide paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally-recognized credential. Electrical, plumbing, IT and construction companies typically offer apprenticeships. Learn more.
Tribal Colleges and Universities
As a whole, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are separate and equal Institutions of American Higher Education in the United States. Fully accredited institutions of higher education that can now offer Associate and Bachelor degrees, as well as Graduate degree programs in various fields of study. All of which offer lower tuition rates than mainstream community college and university.
There are 32 fully accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) in the U.S. In Arizona, this includes Diné College and Tohono O’odham Community College. TCUs are both integral and essential to their communities, creating environments that foster American Indian culture, languages, and traditions. Learn more.
Comparing Schools
You can search and compare colleges, their fields of study, costs, graduation rates, and more, by using the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
College Scorecard Sample
Arizona College Options
See an Arizona college you’re interested in? Visit our college list page to learn about its first-year admissions, scholarships, and financial aid options.
