Overview
Northern Arizona University (NAU), established in 1899, is a public research university located in Flagstaff, Arizona. Situated at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, NAU is known for its campus experience, high-elevation climate, and emphasis on student-centered learning. Students can choose from more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across areas such as business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the environment.
NAU also highlights applied research and sustainability, with established work in areas like forestry, climate science, and Indigenous studies. The university serves a large population of first-generation and Native American students, reflecting strong relationships with regional communities. If you’re comparing public research options in the Southwest, you may also want to review the University of Arizona guide for a different set of programs and campus opportunities.
2. General Information
| Location | Flagstaff, Arizona, USA |
| Established | 1899 |
| Type | Public University |
| Total Students | Over 28,000 |
| Website | nau.edu |
3. Fee Structure (Approximate)
| In-State Tuition | $12,000 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $27,000 per year |
| Room and Board | $11,000 per year |
Tuition and housing costs can change by academic year, so confirm current rates on NAU’s official financial information pages before applying or estimating total attendance costs.
4. Academic Programs
- College of Education
- School of Forestry
- College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences
- College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences
- W.A. Franke College of Business
Because NAU is known for strong programs tied to natural resources and applied sciences, prospective students who are interested in similar research-heavy environments may also consider public research alternatives such as University of Nevada, Reno, especially if you’re comparing graduate and doctoral pathways.
5. Facilities
- High-tech science and engineering labs
- Green buildings and LEED-certified dorms
- Recreation and Wellness Center
- University Union and dining services
NAU’s facilities are designed to support both coursework and student life, including spaces for hands-on learning and collaborative study.
6. Accommodation
- Over 20 residence halls on campus
- Living-learning communities
- Meal plans with multiple dining options
If you’re also exploring schools with different campus housing models, you can compare options using other university guides such as Northern Illinois University.
7. Contact Information
- Address: S San Francisco St, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
- Phone: +1 928-523-9011
- Email: admissions@nau.edu
