Comparing universities is a crucial step for prospective students to make informed decisions about their education and future careers. This article examines two well-regarded institutions, the University of Oregon (UO) and Arizona State University (ASU), across various factors including costs, admissions, academics, and outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive comparison to help students make the best choice for their unique needs and aspirations.
UO Overview
The University of Oregon, located in Eugene, Oregon, was founded in 1876. It is a public research university with a strong focus on both academics and athletics. Offering more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, UO prides itself on its research achievements, diversified academic programs, and vibrant campus life.
UO Costs & Tuition
For the 2021-2022 academic year, the average cost of attendance for in-state students at UO is $27,366, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $51,870. This includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses. Financial aid is available for eligible students, with 61% of undergraduates receiving some form of aid.
UO Admissions
The University of Oregon has an acceptance rate of around 82%, making it moderately selective. Prospective students are required to submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement. The average GPA of admitted students is 3.62.
UO Degrees Offered
UO offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. Some popular majors include Business, Psychology, Human Physiology, and Journalism. The university also offers several interdisciplinary programs, such as Environmental Studies and International Studies, for students interested in broadening their academic horizons.
UO Academics
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, the University of Oregon provides an engaging learning environment for students. The university is known for its strong programs in education, arts, and sciences, as well as professional programs in business, law, and architecture.
UO Diversity
UO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university’s student population represents more than 100 countries and various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. UO’s Division of Equity and Inclusion offers resources and support services to ensure all students feel welcome and valued.
UO Students
The University of Oregon has a student population of approximately 22,000, with more than 18,000 undergraduate students. The campus boasts over 250 student-run clubs and organizations, providing ample opportunities for students to get involved and build connections.
UO Campus
Located in the beautiful Willamette Valley, UO’s campus covers 295 acres and offers a picturesque setting for students to live and learn. The campus includes state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Knight Library and the Erb Memorial Union, as well as numerous green spaces and recreational areas for students to enjoy.
UO Alumni
UO’s alumni network includes more than 200,000 graduates across various industries and professions. Prominent alumni include Nike co-founder Phil Knight, author Ken Kesey, and former U.S. Senator Ron Wyden.
UO Rankings
The University of Oregon is ranked #103 in National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report for 2021. In addition, UO is ranked #47 among public universities and #80 for best value schools.
UO Outcomes
UO has a four-year graduation rate of 49% and a six-year graduation rate of 68%. The average starting salary for UO graduates is $45,000, with higher earnings for those in fields such as engineering and business.
ASU Overview
Arizona State University, founded in 1885, is a public research university located in the Phoenix metropolitan area. With an enrollment of over 74,000 students, ASU is known for its innovation, inclusivity, and commitment to sustainability. The university offers more than 350 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 16 colleges and schools.
ASU Costs & Tuition
For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state students at ASU can expect to pay approximately $29,428, while out-of-state students will pay around $45,910. This includes tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses. Financial aid opportunities are available, with 65% of full-time undergraduate students receiving some form of aid.
ASU Admissions
Arizona State University has an acceptance rate of 86%, making it a relatively accessible institution for prospective students. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement. The average GPA for admitted students is 3.54.
ASU Degrees Offered
ASU offers a vast array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, spanning disciplines such as Business, Engineering, Health, and Liberal Arts. Popular majors include Business Administration, Psychology, and Biological Sciences. The university also provides innovative interdisciplinary programs, such as Sustainability and Digital Culture.
ASU Academics
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, ASU provides a dynamic and supportive learning environment. The university is recognized for its strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences, among others. In addition, ASU’s faculty includes numerous Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and Fulbright scholars.
ASU Diversity
ASU is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive community, with students representing all 50 states and over 100 countries. The university’s diverse student population includes various ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, making for a rich learning environment.
ASU Students
Arizona State University has a large and diverse student body, with a total enrollment of over 74,000 students. The university boasts more than 1,000 student clubs and organizations, providing ample opportunities for students to get involved and make connections.
ASU Campus
ASU’s main campus is located in Tempe, Arizona, and spans 661 acres. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Biodesign Institute and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, as well as numerous recreational spaces and amenities for students to enjoy.
ASU Alumni
ASU’s extensive alumni network includes more than 500,000 graduates worldwide. Notable alumni include former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, and author Amanda Brown.
ASU Rankings
Arizona State University is ranked #103 in National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report for 2021, placing it on par with the University of Oregon. ASU also ranks #54 among public universities and #92 for best value schools.
ASU Outcomes
ASU has a four-year graduation rate of 54% and a six-year graduation rate of 70%. The average starting salary for ASU graduates is $47,000, with higher earnings in fields such as engineering, computer science, and business.
UO vs. ASU Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attendance for UO and ASU, it’s important to consider not only tuition and fees but also expenses such as housing, books, and other living expenses. The total cost of attendance for in-state students at UO is $27,366, while at ASU, it’s $29,428. For out-of-state students, UO’s cost is $51,870, compared to ASU’s $45,910. While both schools offer financial aid opportunities, the overall cost of attendance is generally lower at UO for in-state students and ASU for out-of-state students.
UO vs. ASU Admissions Difficulty
Both UO and ASU have fairly high acceptance rates, with UO accepting 82% of applicants and ASU accepting 86%. This makes both schools moderately selective, with similar admissions requirements, such as SAT or ACT scores and high school transcripts. The average GPA for admitted students at UO is 3.62, while at ASU, it’s 3.54. While both schools have relatively accessible admissions processes, UO has a slightly higher average GPA for admitted students, indicating a marginally more competitive applicant pool.
UO vs. ASU Academic Difficulty
The academic rigor of UO and ASU can be assessed by considering factors such as student-to-faculty ratios, faculty achievements, and program reputations. Both universities have similar student-to-faculty ratios, with UO at 17:1 and ASU at 19:1, suggesting comparable levels of individualized attention and support for students. Both schools also boast strong programs in various disciplines, with some differences in their areas of emphasis. While it’s difficult to definitively compare their academic difficulty, both UO and ASU are known for their commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering student success.
UO vs. ASU Outcome Comparison
When comparing outcomes for UO and ASU graduates, it’s essential to consider factors such as graduation rates, starting salaries, and alumni networks. UO has a four-year graduation rate of 49% and a six-year rate of 68%, while ASU has a four-year rate of 54% and a six-year rate of 70%. The average starting salary for UO graduates is $45,000, compared to $47,000 for ASU graduates. Both schools have large and well-connected alumni networks, with notable graduates in various industries. While ASU holds a slight edge in terms of graduation rates and starting salaries, both universities have demonstrated success in preparing students for life after graduation.
