Success Story

High School Equivalency Program, 2025

Rio offers you more than just your HSE diploma. You can not only further your education, but have many career pathways to choose from. There is always someone there to guide you.

Post Baccalaureate Teacher Certification, 2025

This program was exactly what I was looking for, because I already have my bachelor’s degree. I loved that my classes were going to be completely online so I could continue working without any scheduling conflicts.

Teacher in Residence Program, 2025

I chose Rio’s Teacher in Residence program because it was affordable and I could take my classes online, while also continue working as a resource teacher in the Florence Unified School District.

Associate degrees in Science and General Studies, 2025

Rio’s flexibility allowed me to learn at my own pace, but it also demanded self-discipline. Fitting college into my life has always been about prioritizing growth and remembering my ‘why.’ Online learning gave me the tools to grow academically and personally.

Associate in Arts, 2026

I chose Rio because of its strong connection and involvement with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). As someone who values leadership, service, and academic excellence, I found Rio’s support of PTK to be a key factor in helping me grow both personally and professionally.

Bachelor’s in Elementary/Special Education, 2025 

I chose Rio because of the flexibility it offers. Being able to complete my coursework around my schedule, without needing to physically drive to a campus, has been a game changer.

Associate in Computer Science, 2023

Rio’s structure made it easy. Courses could begin on any Monday, and everything was online. That meant I didn’t have to wait for a traditional semester start date. I could begin as soon as my transcript was evaluated.

Associate in Arts, 2025

I chose Rio Salado College because they offered online classes and a bachelor’s degree transfer program to Arizona State University. I would recommend Rio to veterans and any student with the dream of pursuing an online college education.

Associate in Arts, 2026

I chose Rio Salado because it aligned well with my life and responsibilities. Rio’s flexible online format allowed me to balance my education with my family and professional commitments without sacrificing quality or progress.

Associate degrees in arts, science and general studies, 2019

I originally chose Rio Salado for its affordability and convenience. I was caring for a newborn son, but I had a clear checklist of requirements for the bachelor’s degree I wanted. I knew that steady progress was what mattered most.

Teacher in Residence Program, 2024 

I took the leap and chose Rio Salado College because of the flexibility of online classes and the convenient start dates. I consider myself a lifelong learner and will always find ways to learn and grow.

Associate in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2025 

While incarcerated, I found out about Rio Salado College’s Incarcerated Re-entry Education program. For the first time, I saw an opportunity to invest in myself and do something productive with my time.

Associate in Arts, 2025 /strong>

I chose Rio Salado College because their classes start almost every Monday. Everything from the starting dates to the coursework accommodated my busy life and continuously changing schedule.

Associate in Sustainable Food Systems, 2025 

One of the main reasons I chose Rio Salado College was because of its flexible online learning options. I am a working parent, and the ability to log into my classes at my own pace and on my own schedule was crucial for me.

Associate in Arts, 2025

I chose Rio Salado because I’m a mom who was working full-time and needed something flexible that fit into my schedule. I knew about Rio’s strong reputation and trusted that it would be a good fit for me.

Teacher in Residence Program, 2025 

I chose Rio Salado because it was the obvious choice. Rio made the program attainable while I was teaching full time. Through meticulous planning and organization, I was able to fit the program into my very busy schedule.

Bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education, 2025 

My advisor told me that Rio was going to be opening up a bachelor’s program. They did, and it all worked out. It was perfect timing.

Associate in Public Administration, 2025 

I chose Rio at first because it was recommended by my supervisor and another coworker. I needed to balance my studies with full-time work, parenting, and volunteering.

Bachelor’s in Elementary and Special Education, 2025

I chose Rio Salado because the flexibility their online classes offered was exactly what I needed. Taking online classes was an amazing experience. I could learn on my own schedule while still managing my responsibilities.

High School Equivalency Program, 2025 

I was looking online to find somewhere to take courses to complete my GED (courses). College was never part of the plan. I found Rio Salado and was introduced to the many education possibilities available.

Associate in General Studies, 2025 

I chose Rio for dual enrollment so I could earn college credits while I was in high school and graduate with an associate degree early.

Associate in Applied Science, 2025 

I chose Rio because it was affordable and a friend recommended it. Taking online classes was perfect for me because I could move at my own pace while balancing two jobs and being a single mother.

Associate degree in Cybersecurity, 2024

I would recommend Rio to future students because I have had support from day one when I first enrolled, all the way to the end. The instructors were all great and very understanding. I look forward to continue expanding my knowledge and training.

Teacher in Residence Program, 2020

I did some research, and found that Rio Salado College offered exactly what I needed, and at a reasonable price. I did not want to go into debt to acquire my credential. The post baccalaureate program at Rio was perfect.

Associate in Paralegal, 2024

After graduating with my bachelor’s, I decided to make a slight change in my career path and become a paralegal. I saw that Rio Salado offered a Paralegal Studies program. I had a great experience with the Maricopa Community Colleges, so I figured why not give Rio a shot.

Pursuing Associate in Risk Management and Insurance, 2025

Rio was one of the most affordable schools, and they had a lot of career paths to choose from. Now that my children are grown and have their own lives, I find myself at a place where I can pursue my dreams.

HSE Program Completer, 2024

I initially chose Rio Salado because of how accessible and economical it was, but I stayed in the program because the success coaches and instructors were incredibly kind and encouraging.

Associate in Arts, 2023; Associate in General Studies, 2024

I chose Rio’s dual enrollment program provided by my high school. It interested me because I could complete my first two years of college at the same time as my high school diploma.

Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification Program, 2013

I had some experience with online courses at other schools, but Rio's instructors and the design of the classes really made it soar far above the rest. The instructors were so helpful. I felt like they cared about making the experience as personal and relevant as possible for me.

HSE Program Completer, 2024

I chose Rio Salado because of the feeling of being welcomed. I saw how much enthusiasm there was with just getting registered that I knew this was the right place for me.

Associate in Arts, 2024

I chose Rio Salado because both of my sisters were delighted with the services offered there. That inspired me to investigate what it would take to enroll myself back into school and finish the education I had once given up on.

Associate in Early Childhood Education, 2024

I needed the flexibility of being able to support my children, attend their school functions, work as needed, and also go to school on my own schedule. Rio Salado is very flexible, very rigorous and I liked the challenge.

Associate in Arts, 2019

Following my time in the United States Army, I chose to complete my education at Rio Salado College. Rio’s Veterans Services department went above and beyond to help me process my benefits, create and academic plan, and navigate returning to college as an adult learner.

Small Business Management Certificate, 2024

I chose Rio because the online courses give me the flexibility to be successful. I have the option to take single or multiple courses at one time. The scheduling allows me to conveniently map out the timeline to completion.

Associate in General Studies, 2023 

I decided on Rio for a few different reasons. I had heard many great things about Rio and how they help encourage their students to do their absolute best. Online was the best option for me because it allowed me to have freedom in my school times while working full-time.

Associate in Arts with Emphasis in History, 2023

I had been a stay-at-home mom for 17 years. I knew that I wanted to go to school. I did research and found that Rio Salado had everything I wanted. I could work at my own pace and still have time to be with my daughters and be in school.

Associate in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2024

Rio taught me discipline and how to have a schedule, and proved to me that I could do it, that my life could still be lived. And Rio helped me find what I wanted out of life, which is to continue learning.

Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal, 2024

I chose Rio Salado because they have an excellent paralegal program that is online so I can complete it at my own pace while working at my own schedule. Taking classes at Rio has been a wonderful experience. Advisors were always available to assist me when I needed help.

Associate in General Business, 2024

The cost and convenience of Rio Salado is excellent. With online classes, I can do school work anytime I want to. If I cannot sleep, I can jump on the computer and work on my assignments. The instructors and staff are helpful and want to see you succeed.

Associate in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2024

As much as Rio is an online school, it's a very real place that has positively impacted not just my academic and professional trajectory but personal development as well.

Associate in Arts, emphasis in Communication, 2024

I entered my Rio Salado College journey as an HSE student. I initially harbored reservations about education because childhood challenges with schooling left me jaded. But Rio's GED test prep classes became a beacon of opportunity for me to build my confidence.

Two associate degrees, one certificate, 2024

As a dual enrollment student, I wanted to see how far I could go in earning college credits while I was in high school. I had a hectic schedule as I was involved in high school clubs and sports. Rio helped prepare me in my world of time management.

I chose Rio Salado College because classes start every Monday. The flexibility of online learning means I can log on from home and work at my own pace to complete assignments. With such a variety of programs and transferrable credits, I’m not sure why any future student wouldn’t choose Rio.

Post-Bacc Educator Preparation Program, 2023

I chose Rio Salado because their online structure allowed me to take classes around my full-time job schedule. As an online student, I could log into my classes and work on my studies on my lunch break, before or after work and on the weekends.

Associate in Business, 2023

I have four kids, a husband, a dog, and a full-time job. I chose Rio because flexible scheduling and being able to complete my work at my own pace was the most important thing in deciding which school to attend while pursuing my associate degree.

Associate Degree in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2023

After looking at other online schools, Rio's curriculum provided a more robust, comprehensive, practical program than the others. Learning from home was convenient as it related to my work-life balance objectives.

Associate degree in paralegal, 2023

As a single mom with two jobs, I needed to be able to study and complete assignments anytime. Finishing my paralegal degree was easy to do. Rio has always been easy to work with, affordable and flexible.

Adult ACE program completer and transfer student, 2020

The online aspect of the program appealed to me. In high school, I was a cross country and track athlete and didn't have time on the weekends to attend classes in-person.

Associate in arts degree and dual enrollment student, 2023

I took dual enrollment classes through Rio Salado because I wanted to get ahead. Thanks to dual classes, I will finish my bachelor's degree early, work on master’s degree quicker, and enter the job force even faster.

Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies, 2021

I chose Rio Salado because there was no way I would be able to fit a traditional school schedule into my life. With two kids in school, I needed to be able to do classes whenever I had the time to sneak bits in during the week.

Associate in General Studies, 1984

I was in the Air Force, and Rio Salado offered classes at the base where I was stationed. I’m a first-generation college graduate. Rio literally jump-started my career. They gave me confidence and a feeling of accomplishment.

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, 2023

As a business owner and active program director of two childcare facilities, it was very critical to obtain my degree. Rio Salado provided me the opportunity to ensure I met all state and local requirements to be a qualified and licensed director.

Associate in Arts, 2023

I chose Rio Salado because I needed the flexibility to take classes on my schedule. My classes at Rio Salado are where my mind was opened to a whole new world.

Two Associate Degrees, 2021

I chose Rio to take dual enrollment classes in high school to get ahead for college. It saved me a lot of money on textbooks and tuition at university and will allow me to graduate a year early.

Associate degree in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2023

I like online learning because it gives me a chance to make my own schedule and pace. I would recommend Rio because not only is it affordable, but also because the teachers take time to help students understand what they are learning.

GED® Test Prep Program Completer, 2022

I chose to attend Rio because the in-person classes at the Northern location were close to my house. After meeting everyone there, I fell in love with the teachers and atmosphere. I don’t think I would have been treated the same way if I had gone anywhere else.

Associate in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders, 2023

I chose Rio because I needed my courses to be all online. As a working parent, attending classes on a college campus was out of the question. Rio was the difference between me being able to go to school or not.

Certificate in Real Estate: Prelicense, 2023

Rio is so convenient because of the online aspect of it. I choose to do my assignments during the morning hours when my mind is the sharpest, the house is quiet, and I am able to concentrate.

Associate in Arts, 2023

I chose Rio because it is a reputable school, affordable, and was convenient for me. Taking online classes allowed me to set my hours while working a full-time job. It really fit my lifestyle.

Concurrent Enrollment Student, 2023

I am a junior in high school. I have had a wonderful experience taking Latin through Rio Salado. My instructor is a great teacher and is always willing to answer questions and help me. I find the Rio system is intuitive and easy to navigate.

Currently pursuing an Associate in Science degree

Originally, I chose Rio Salado College because it offered flexible start dates. The calendar was crucial for me. I knew Rio would allow me to speed up or slow down my classes to fit my current life.

Currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Public Administration

Due to the pandemic, no shifts were available for work. I realized I needed to get a degree to have job security. I chose to enroll at Rio Salado College because it offered the flexibility of online classes.

Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies, 2021

I chose Rio Salado College because I wanted to have the benefit of completing courses on my own time. As I was employed, attending traditional college courses in-person didn’t always work out for me.

Associate in Arts Degree, 2020

Initially, I decided to take dual enrollment credits through Rio Salado in hopes that my university of choice would take my credits. In 2020, I earned my high school diploma and associate degree at the same time.

Associate in Business, 2022

I chose Rio Salado because of the flexibility in available dates for classes. When I looked at other schools’ class schedules, they were very limited. I appreciated being able to do my classes around my schedule and still be home to take care of my daughter.

Associate Degree in Accounting, 2022

I was offered a full-time accounting job but the company said they could not pay me more because I did not have a degree. I enrolled at Rio Salado that same day. I chose Rio because it fit in with my work schedule. Having a degree will lead to better job opportunities.

Special Education Certificate, 2021 

I chose to attend Rio Salado College because it offered a post baccalaureate teacher certification program that was reasonably priced and gave me the freedom to live my life.

Pre-Requisite Nursing Courses, 2022

I chose Rio Salado for flexibility and affordability. The online format allowed me to keep working and do my classwork before or after my work shifts. The courses were well-designed, and the online platform is reliable and user-friendly.

Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene, 2010

Initially I needed to take a few classes to meet some pre-reqs. Rio’s online classes allowed me to work full time and take classes at night. Eventually, Rio Salado chose me.

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, 2022

“I chose Rio Salado College because I am a single mother who works full-time and wanted to pursue my education in early childhood. The best thing about Rio is the services they provide to help students maintain a steady college experience online.”

 Associate degrees in Arts, Science, and General Studies, 2022

I took dual enrollment classes through Rio Salado College to earn college credits in high school. I’m the first male to graduate from college in our entire family. That is what I am most proud of.

Associate in Arts, 2022

Rio Salado has instructors and staff who will always go the extra mile to assist your academic journey. Having my college degree has given me more self-confidence to be a role model to my family.

Certificate in Retail Management, 2021

Being already employed, I was looking for tools to take my career to the next level. I chose Rio because it allowed me to fit full-time school into my schedule. The flexibility to learn when it was convenient for me was a game-changer.

 Associate degree in Computer Technology, 2022

It almost seems like Rio chose me. I had great academic advisors who created a plan for me from start to finish. This entire experience has helped me build the confidence I need to succeed.

Associate degree in Business, 2021

All of Rio Salado's values are the reason I am who I am today and why I want to complete my bachelor’s degree in human resources management. Attending Rio helped support my career, my family, and my future.

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education, 2022

Rio has benefited me by offering online classes to complete at my own pace. Take that step of faith in Rio and know that no matter what program you pursue, you have full support both in-person and online to help you be successful.

Associate of Arts, 2020

I learned a lot through my courses at Rio, and by having my degree, I was able to transfer my degree to a university and enroll in my bachelor's program. I plan to use that degree to pursue a career as a communication specialist.

Associate degree in Applied Science, 2022

I always wanted to go back to college ever since I had to cut my education short when I moved to the U.S. Being a working dad of two children, Rio made it easy with their flexible start times and online options for almost all their classes. 

Teacher in Residence program completer, 2018

Rio was highly recommended by my (school) district. Because I was teaching full-time, the flexibility of learning from home for my post-bacc work was very helpful. Every instructor I had was either still teaching or had been a teacher.”

Associate in Cybersecurity, 2021

I chose Rio because as an adult learner and a working professional, I needed a college that could offer me the option of online classes for the entire program. Rio Salado provided me with the opportunity to earn my associate degree fully online, and I loved it.

Associate degree in Organizational Management, 2015

Being a working adult with a family and other responsibilities can make finding time to get an education challenging. Rio Salado’s online structure allowed me to fit my studies and assignments into my own schedule.