Introduction
Choosing where to study abroad is a life-changing decision. For many international students, the choice often comes down to large, globally recognized universities versus smaller, more personalized institutions. Arizona State University (ASU) and Rowan University are two popular options that attract thousands of international students every year.
But which one is better for you? The answer depends on factors like tuition costs, scholarships, academic programs, campus life, and job opportunities. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between Arizona State University and Rowan University to help you make the best choice for 2025.
Quick Overview: ASU vs Rowan
| Feature | Arizona State University | Rowan University |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Tempe, Arizona | Glassboro, New Jersey |
| Student Population | ~150,000 (largest U.S. university) | ~20,000 |
| International Students | 15,000+ | ~1,500 |
| Programs Offered | 750+ | 80+ |
| Average Tuition | $32,000–$36,000/year | $24,000–$28,000/year |
| Scholarships | Merit + international awards | Merit, need-based, international |
| Global Ranking | Higher (Top 200 worldwide) | Strong U.S. regional rankings |
Tuition Fees: Which is More Affordable?
Arizona State University
ASU is a large public research university with higher tuition compared to Rowan.
- Undergraduate tuition: $32,000 – $36,000/year
- Graduate tuition: $28,000 – $34,000/year
- MBA: $45,000 – $50,000/year
Living costs in Arizona average $12,000 – $15,000 per year.
Rowan University
Rowan, being a smaller public university, is more affordable.
- Undergraduate tuition: $24,000 – $28,000/year
- Graduate tuition: $20,000 – $25,000/year
- MBA: $30,000 – $35,000/year
Living costs in New Jersey are slightly higher, around $15,000 – $18,000 per year, especially for students near Philadelphia or New York.
💡 Verdict: Rowan has lower tuition fees, but Arizona may balance costs with more scholarship opportunities.
Scholarships: Which University Offers Better Funding?
Arizona State University Scholarships
ASU provides generous merit-based and program-specific scholarships. Examples include:
- New American University Scholarship (up to $15,000/year)
- College-specific awards (engineering, business, sustainability)
- External funding like Fulbright
Rowan University Scholarships
Rowan’s scholarships are also competitive, especially for international students:
- Rowan Select Scholarship – $5,000–$12,000/year
- International Merit Awards – up to $10,000/year
- Transfer Student Awards – $2,000–$5,000/year
➡️ Official Rowan scholarships info: Rowan University Financial Aid
💡 Verdict: Arizona offers a wider range of scholarships, but Rowan’s lower tuition often makes it equally affordable.
Academic Programs and Reputation
Arizona State University
ASU is known for global rankings and research output. It offers over 750 programs, with strengths in:
- Computer Science & Engineering
- Business & Management
- Sustainability & Environmental Studies
- Health Sciences
It’s ranked #1 in the U.S. for innovation for nine years in a row.
Rowan University
Rowan offers around 80+ programs, with notable strengths in:
- Engineering (Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering)
- Business
- Education
- Health Sciences
While Rowan may not have the same global recognition as ASU, it is highly respected regionally.
💡 Verdict: ASU wins for global recognition and program variety. Rowan excels in specialized, career-focused programs.
Student Life and Campus Experience
Life at Arizona State University
- Huge, diverse campus with 150,000+ students.
- Over 1,000 student organizations.
- Sports culture is strong—home of the Sun Devils.
- Located in sunny Arizona, with year-round warm weather and outdoor activities.
Life at Rowan University
- Medium-sized campus (~20,000 students) with a close-knit community.
- Around 200 student clubs and organizations.
- Easy access to Philadelphia (30 minutes) and New York City (2 hours).
- Four-season climate—hot summers, snowy winters.
💡 Verdict: If you want a large, dynamic environment—choose ASU. If you prefer smaller, community-focused learning—Rowan is better.
Jobs and Career Opportunities After Graduation
Arizona State University
ASU has strong partnerships with global employers like Amazon, Intel, and Microsoft. International students also benefit from OPT (Optional Practical Training) opportunities.
- Average starting salary: $60,000–$75,000/year
- Strong career fairs and alumni network worldwide
Rowan University
Rowan’s career services support students with internships and job placements, especially in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.
- Average starting salary: $50,000–$65,000/year
- Great opportunities in engineering, healthcare, and business locally
💡 Verdict: ASU offers global recognition and higher average salaries. Rowan provides solid regional career opportunities, especially for students who want to work on the East Coast.
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between ASU and Rowan comes down to your priorities:
- Pick Arizona State University if:
- You want a globally recognized university.
- You’re interested in research, engineering, or computer science.
- You prefer a large, diverse campus experience.
- Pick Rowan University if:
- You want affordable tuition with smaller class sizes.
- You prefer a community-focused learning environment.
- You’re looking for career opportunities in New Jersey, Philadelphia, or New York.
Conclusion
Both Arizona State University and Rowan University are excellent choices for international students, but they serve different needs.
- ASU: Best for global exposure, big-campus experience, and worldwide job opportunities.
- Rowan: Best for affordability, personalized attention, and regional career growth.
Ultimately, the “better” choice depends on what matters most to you—cost, career goals, location, or university prestige.
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