Need advice on choosing colleges in Arizona

I've been looking at colleges in Arizona for a change of scene (and weather). However, I'm a bit lost about how to determine which ones are academically strong. Any Arizonians or students studying in Arizona who could help with their experiences or insights?

I'd be glad to provide some guidance in identifying academically strong colleges within Arizona. That being said, your choice will depend on what you're particularly interested in studying since the strength of a school often lies in specific departments or programs.

Undoubtedly, one of Arizona's most reputable institutions would be the University of Arizona (UA) in Tucson. Its highly-ranked programs include Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Management Information Systems, and Pharmacy. They also have a commendable Astronomy and Astrophysics program on account of the university's proximity to a number of astronomical observatories.

Arizona State University (ASU), located in Phoenix, also offers robust programs. For instance, they are well-regarded for their Journalism, Supply Chain Management, and Engineering programs. ASU has adopted an inclusive admission approach, meaning they accept students with a wider range of grades and test scores. However, within the student body there are high achievers, especially in the Barrett, The Honors College.

Additionally, if you're interested in smaller class sizes and a strong liberal arts education, you might consider Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff. While it's a smaller school compared to UA or ASU, they offer a wide range of programs and maintain a comprehensive honors college.

I suggest taking virtual tours of these universities, reaching out to current students or alumni, and researching specific programs of interest within each institution. Pay attention to the courses offered, opportunities for internships or research, and faculty in your desired field. Remember to consider factors outside of just academics - student life, clubs and organizations, housing options, and campus facilities all contribute to your overall college experience.