Arizona State University has been recognized as a top school for free speech by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) and College Pulse in their latest College Free Speech Rankings.
The university ranked 14th among the top 25 schools for 2025. Among top-tierResearch I universities, an elite classification given by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education to universities with the highest levels of research activity. research universities, ASU is No. 8, ahead of the University of Chicago, Duke University and Purdue University.
The largest report of its kind, the rankings draw from more than 58,000 student responses representing more than 250 colleges and universities nationwide. The survey was fielded from Jan. 25 through June 17, 2024.
ASU’s commitment to free speech was used as a standout example in the 64-page FIRE report and rankings, showcasing a standard of “High Honors” for its public response to a speech controversy. The report recorded 14 instances, two at ASU, of schools supporting free expression in response to a student sanctioning attempt.
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From azcentral.com: Arizona colleges commended by advocacy group for free speech on campus
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression has also given ASU a “green light” rating since 2011 for its speech-related policies — the highest rating available in FIRE’s Speech Code Rating System.
“ASU is committed to the free, robust and open exchange of ideas among all members of our university community, and we strive to provide an environment that fosters the fullest degree of intellectual freedom and free expression,” said ASU President Michael M. Crow.
“Our university takes this charge seriously, and we are proud to be recognized as a leader in supporting and protecting free speech.”
Students, faculty and staff can access information, resources and support about free-speech activities and policies at freespeech.asu.edu.
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to defending and sustaining the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought. College Pulse is a survey research and analytics company dedicated to understanding the attitudes, preferences and behaviors of today's college students.
Updated Free Speech at ASU website
The website provides resources for students, faculty and staff in one consolidated location, including:
- How student organizations can participate in expressive activities on campus.
- Guidelines for political engagement by public employees.
- Ways for student groups to reserve outdoor spaces on campus.
- Links to specific policies and processes, including Student Advocacy and Assistance, through the Dean of Students, and the Arizona Board of Regents Code of Conduct.
Learn more at freespeech.asu.edu.
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