What are good safety schools in Arizona?

Safety schools in Arizona offer excellent educational opportunities while maintaining higher acceptance rates and more flexible admission requirements. Grand Canyon University in Phoenix stands out as a strong safety school option with an acceptance rate around 77% and moderate admission requirements. As a private Christian university, GCU offers numerous undergraduate programs and maintains an active campus life, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a backup to Arizona State University.

Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff serves as another reliable safety school, accepting approximately 85% of applicants. NAU provides a more intimate college experience compared to ASU, with smaller class sizes and a beautiful mountain setting. The university is known for its strong programs in education, forestry, and hospitality management, plus it offers guaranteed admission to students meeting specific GPA and test score requirements.

Arizona Christian University represents another safety option, particularly for students interested in a faith-based education. With an acceptance rate of about 80%, ACU provides personal attention through small class sizes and offers various academic programs. The university's Phoenix location gives students access to urban opportunities while maintaining a close-knit campus community.

When considering safety schools, remember that Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Prescott campus, while specialized, accepts around 70% of applicants. Though best known for aviation and aerospace programs, it also offers degrees in engineering, business, and security studies. Its unique focus and higher acceptance rate make it worth considering as a backup option, especially for students interested in these fields.