What to Know Before ASU’s Fall Semester: New Degrees & VR Classes

Arizona State University Prepares for a New Academic Year

Arizona State University (ASU) is gearing up for another exciting academic year, with students returning to campus on August 21. Across its downtown and Tempe campuses, tens of thousands of new students will begin their first semesters, greeted by a range of new degrees, buildings, and classes. This year brings significant changes and updates that reflect the university's ongoing commitment to innovation and growth.

Campus Expansion and Construction Projects

One of the most noticeable changes on the Tempe campus is the construction near Orange Street and University Drive. The new Orange Street entryway is set to open before the start of the semester, offering more pedestrian space and a temporary opening of University Drive for move-in. These projects are part of a larger $600 million in construction efforts expected to be completed this year. Another $300 million in projects will commence before the end of 2025, further expanding the campus infrastructure.

ASU leaders emphasize that these physical expansions are a testament to the university’s dedication to supporting a growing academic community. The expansion not only enhances the student experience but also allows for the development of new facilities that meet modern educational needs.

New Student Housing and Development

A notable addition this semester is the Mill Avenue student housing building, which accommodates over 800 students in a seven-story structure located just a short walk from the Omni Hotel. This new housing option enables the university to demolish older dorms and construct a new development. According to Tim Smith, ASU’s vice president for facilities development, this move supports the university’s long-term vision for student living spaces.

Virtual Reality in STEM Education

This semester marks an exciting expansion of virtual reality (VR) learning at ASU. Last year, the university introduced VR-enhanced technology in all introductory biology classes under the Dreamscape Learn program. The initiative saw hundreds of students enroll, with positive results showing improved performance across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and a reduction in students switching out of their majors.

Building on this success, ASU is now introducing chemistry courses using the same VR technology. Students will use virtual reality headsets to immerse themselves in imaginary worlds where they can apply newly learned concepts. The goal is to create a more equitable learning environment for students who may not have had advanced high school coursework or who learn through different methods.

The implementation of Dreamscape Learn led to a decrease in students switching out of their major, from 29% to 24%. Annie Hale, executive director of the Action Lab, highlighted the significance of this 5% retention gain, noting that it represents more future scientists, healthcare professionals, and engineers staying in their chosen fields.

New Academic Programs and Opportunities

This fall, ASU introduces several new degrees, certificates, and minors, expanding the range of academic opportunities available to students. The university offers over 400 undergraduate degrees and 450 graduate degrees, with new additions including:

• Master of Science in Public Health Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science
• Minor in Neuroscience
• Undergraduate Certificate in Analysis and Management of Insurance Risk
• Master of Arts in Spanish
• Master of Arts in Museum Studies
• Graduate Certificate in Computer-Assisted Language Learning

Additionally, progress continues on ASU’s upcoming medical school, which is scheduled to open in the summer of 2026. The school is currently awaiting preliminary accreditation before it can begin advertising to students or accepting applications.

These developments underscore ASU’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative and diverse educational experiences for its students. As the university prepares for the new academic year, it remains focused on fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.