Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Tempe, AZ & Arlington, TX
When students choose between Arizona State University Campus Immersion and The University Of Texas At Arlington, they're comparing two large public universities with remarkably similar profiles. Both serve broad-access populations across Arizona and Texas respectively, deliver comparable career outcomes, and operate at reasonable price points.
The data reveals modest differences rather than dramatic advantages, making this a decision where fit and program preferences matter more than pure financial metrics.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$19,500
federal loans
$17,527
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$23,519
borrowed by parents
$12,313
borrowed by parents
ASU is predominantly business-focused, with 20% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 11% in engineering and 6% in social sciences. The largest programs include Business Management (1,101 graduates annually), Biology (832), and Psychology (709).
UT Arlington concentrates on health sciences as its dominant field, with nursing alone producing 3,539 graduates annually. Other major programs include Business Administration (365) and Liberal Arts (312).
These program distributions reflect different institutional strengths and regional workforce demands.
For students prioritizing pure financial metrics, the schools are virtually tied with ASU offering slightly lower net price but UT Arlington providing better loan affordability and lower parent borrowing. ASU's higher graduation rate provides meaningful value for completion-focused families, while UT Arlington's nursing and health science programs offer clear career pathways in growing fields.
Both schools rank in the 98th percentile nationally, indicating excellent value regardless of choice. The decision should focus on program fit, location preference, and family financial capacity rather than dramatic outcome differences.
If completion rates matter most, ASU edges ahead; if minimizing family debt is paramount, UT Arlington wins.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
