An Insider's Guide to Colleges in Nevada
Get your comprehensive guide to the diverse world of colleges in Nevada. Understand what each institution offers, tips on choosing a college, and what makes Nevada a unique study destination.
- By: The College Compass Team
Welcome to Nevada, the Silver State, where education shines as brightly as the famous Vegas Strip.
Nestled between picturesque landscapes and iconic cityscapes, Nevada’s higher education scene is a dynamic mix of public universities, private colleges, and community institutions.
Each uniquely colors Nevada’s academic palette, offering everything from rigorous research programs to intimate learning experiences and practical skill development.
By choosing one of Nevada’s colleges for your journey, you’re embarking on a path filled with rigorous academic challenges, rewarding hands-on experiences, and a lifestyle teeming with outdoor adventures and cultural riches.
This isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about creating your unique college story under the wide Nevada sky.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the sea of opportunities that Nevada’s colleges have to offer under the vast, inspiring skies of the Silver State.
Types of Colleges in Nevada
We understand that embarking on the journey to higher education can be both exciting and overwhelming.
Luckily, Kansas offers diverse public, private, community, and technical colleges to cater to various interests, career goals, and academic aspirations.
To help guide your journey, we’ll provide an overview of the types of colleges available in Kansas and their admission requirements.
Public Colleges and Universities in Nevada
Serving as academic beacons, Nevada’s public colleges and universities offer a wide range of degree programs and research opportunities.
Home to seven such institutions, including the notable University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, these schools cater to various academic interests.
No. of colleges: 7
General admissions requirements: high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and personal essays.
Private Colleges and Universities in Nevada
For a more intimate academic experience, consider one of Nevada’s esteemed private institutions.
The University of Phoenix is an example of such a school, boasting smaller classes and a strong focus on individual learning.
No. of colleges: 8
General admissions requirements: SAT scores, recommendations, and extracurricular achievements
Community and Technical Colleges in Nevada
Community colleges in Nevada, like Truckee Meadows Community College and Western Nevada College, offer an affordable gateway to higher education.
They provide two-year programs and professional certificates and serve as stepping stones for students planning to transfer to four-year institutions.
No. of colleges: 4
General admissions requirements: a high school diploma or GED.
*Note: Every college has different admissions requirements, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for each one.
Popular Colleges in Nevada
From urban hubs to tranquil towns, Nevada’s popular colleges promise a captivating blend of academic prowess and cultural enrichment.
Here, we spotlight a few of these institutions with a reputation for excellence.
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV
Tucked away near the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) isn’t just a place for earning a degree—it’s a launching pad for life-altering adventures.
Boasting more than 145 degree programs emphasizing Business, Engineering, and Journalism, UNR provides a robust platform for intellectual growth.
However, learning at UNR isn’t confined to the lecture halls.
Students can traverse hiking trails in the afternoon, enveloped in the natural beauty surrounding the campus, transforming an ordinary college day into an extraordinary exploration of both knowledge and nature.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$14,953
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
• Biology
• Psychology
• Marketing
• Business/Commerce
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers a dynamic blend of vibrant city life and rigorous academia.
Situated minutes away from the electrifying Las Vegas strip, UNLV is a space where the city’s hustle meets the quiet focus of the classroom.
Renowned for its Hospitality program among the 350 degrees it offers, the college perfectly mirrors its energetic, hospitality-centric city.
But it’s not all about textbooks; students can immerse themselves in the cultural and entertainment kaleidoscope of the city, making every day a fresh page in their Vegas story.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$12,906
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Hospitality Administration/Management
• Criminal Justice and Corrections
• Psychology
• Biology
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness
Nevada State College
Henderson, NV
At the heart of Henderson, a city known for its quicksilver growth, stands Nevada State College, a beacon of innovation and academic evolution.
Particularly sought after for its stellar Nursing and Education programs, Nevada State College offers a practical, hands-on approach to learning, cultivating professionals ready to take on real-world challenges.
When academia winds down, students can discover the artistic soul of Henderson or seek serenity by the sparkling waters of Lake Las Vegas, enriching their college journey with cultural and natural treasures.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$14,305
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
30%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, and Master's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Psychology
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Criminal Justice and Corrections
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Great Basin College
Elko, NV
In the quiet charm of Elko, Great Basin College thrives as a hidden jewel of Nevada’s educational landscape.
Famous for its intimate learning environment, Great Basin offers a broad spectrum of degree programs, such as Health Science and Industrial Technology.
But college life at Great Basin goes beyond academia.
The canvas of student experiences is painted with hues of Elko’s authentic Western culture, a palette of outdoor recreational activities, and the vibrant colors of local arts festivals.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$7,758
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
31%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
• Electrical and Power Transmission Installers
Las Vegas College
Las Vegas, NV
Amidst the pulsating heartbeat of Las Vegas, Las Vegas College stands as a gateway to practical and career-focused education.
This institution is tailored for those aiming to navigate the realms of Healthcare and Business, offering flexible schedules and hands-on training.
The college experience extends beyond the learning environment, spilling into the city’s vibrant nightlife, world-class cuisine, and diverse entertainment options, ensuring students balance academics with unforgettable Las Vegas experiences.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$27,811
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, For-Profit
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
43%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
• Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
• Health and Medical Administrative Services
University of Phoenix - Nevada
Las Vegas, NV
Situated in the bustling heart of Las Vegas, the University of Phoenix – Nevada campus breaks traditional education barriers, offering a transformative experience tailored for today’s ambitious adults.
Known for its comprehensive Business and Nursing programs, the university paves the path for career acceleration.
Interestingly, the college supports an active alumni network of more than a million graduates globally – a testament to its expansive reach and influence.
Furthermore, Phoenix’s ‘one-course-at-a-time approach ensures that students can deeply engage with each subject while maintaining a work-life balance, truly embodying the spirit of modern learning.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$19,112
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, For-Profit
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
40%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, and Master's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Human Services
• Criminal Justice and Corrections
• Behavioral Sciences
Arizona College of Nursing - Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
For those dreaming of a fulfilling nursing career, the Arizona College of Nursing in Las Vegas lights the way.
Offering an accelerated BSN program that can be completed in as little as three years, this college optimizes the path to a nursing career.
The blend of high-tech simulation labs and hands-on clinical experience prepares students for various healthcare scenarios.
The college’s fun fact is its “no waiting list” policy ensures that qualified students can jump right into their studies, making each moment count towards their career aspirations.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$29,115
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, For-Profit
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
18%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing - Bachelor's Degree
Chamberlain University - Nevada
Las Vegas, NV
At Chamberlain University-Nevada, the journey toward becoming a compassionate, effective healthcare professional begins.
The university’s commitment to delivering exceptional nursing education is evident in its 130-year history, offering a legacy of comprehensive healthcare education.
The Chamberlain Care Student Success Model—an innovative, personalized learning approach—sets this institution apart.
Alongside their studies, students also participate in health fairs and community service, nurturing a well-rounded, service-oriented ethos.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$39,787
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, For-Profit
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
On-campus and Hybrid classes
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing - Bachelor's Degree
Truckee Meadows Community College
Reno, NV
Dive into the vibrant educational community at Truckee Meadows Community College in lively Reno.
Over 50 degree and certificate programs are yours to explore, with the Visual and Performing Arts programs standing out as hotbeds of creativity.
The college harnesses Reno’s surrounding natural beauty, using it as a backdrop to inspire artistic minds.
But it’s not all work.
An air of playfulness pervades the campus, embodied by the college mascot, Wizard the Lizard, who regularly makes appearances, adding a whimsical charm to everyday college life.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$4,863
Duration
2 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
38%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Science Technologies/Technicians
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Precision Metal Working
College of Southern Nevada
Las Vegas, NV
At the College of Southern Nevada, academic and cultural diversity unite to form a vibrant tapestry of collegiate life.
With an array of over 180 degrees and certificate options, you’re spoilt for choice.
The distinctive Casino Management program speaks to the heart of Vegas’s entertainment identity.
And when the books close, you’re not confined to earthbound pursuits.
The college’s planetarium beckons, offering you a chance to stargaze without ever leaving campus, truly a stellar addition to your college memories.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$6,904
Duration
2 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
21%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Science Technologies/Technicians
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Western Nevada College
Carson City, NV
Western Nevada College, peacefully set in picturesque Carson City, offers a serene environment conducive to academic focus.
The practicality of the Applied Industrial Technology program stands out, preparing students for thriving industrial sectors.
However, the college experience at Western Nevada extends far beyond the traditional classroom.
The college’s observatory is a unique feature, turning your academic journey into an astronomical adventure.
As you study amidst natural tranquility and explore the cosmos, Western Nevada College delivers an enriching, memorable journey.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,637
Duration
2 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
28%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Bachelor's, and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Physical Sciences
• Precision Metal Working
• Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies
Disclaimer:
All of the data about acceptance rates, graduation rates, tuition costs, and other relevant details for the list of popular colleges in Alabama mentioned above is sourced from CollegeScoreCard by the US Department of Education and each college’s official website.
Please use the information and data provided only as a general guideline and verify it before making decisions based on it.
Accreditation for Colleges in Nevada
Accreditation is like a gold seal of approval, testifying to a college’s academic program’s quality and rigor.
In Nevada, this important task falls to accrediting bodies like the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Accreditation reflects on the institution’s reputation and impacts a student’s ability to transfer credits and even secure financial aid.
Tips for students when choosing a college in Nevada
- Identify Your Goals: Understanding what you want from your college experience—be it a specific major, research opportunities, or community involvement—will help guide your choice.
- Look at Accreditation: An accredited college guarantees that employers and other educational institutions will recognize your degree. Always ensure your chosen college is properly accredited.
- Consider the Location: Your college’s environment will shape your experience. Nevada’s diverse locations offer vibrant city life, peaceful suburban communities, or the quiet serenity of rural campuses.
- Evaluate Financial Aid and Scholarships: Financial considerations are crucial. Colleges in Nevada offer various financial aid options and scholarships.
For example, the Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship and Silver State Opportunity Grant are excellent options.
*Note: Filling out all the required paperwork and gathering the proper documents is super important when applying for any scholarship or financial aid program. And, of course, don’t forget to send in your application by the deadline to seize these fantastic opportunities!
- Visit if Possible: A campus visit can give you a taste of the college’s community, facilities, and overall atmosphere.
- Research Alumni Success: Look into the success rate of the college’s graduates. This includes job placement rates, graduate school acceptances, and other achievements.
Why study in Nevada?
The question isn’t why study in Nevada, but rather, why not?
Nevada’s educational system radiates with opportunity, innovation, and diversity.
This section highlights the many benefits of studying in Nevada and presents an authentic snapshot of life as a student here.
Pros of studying in Nevada:
- Lower cost of living compared to many other states.
- A robust job market in the healthcare, technology, and hospitality industries.
- Rich cultural experiences, including arts, music, and food.
- Plenty of outdoor recreation activities.
Cons of studying in Nevada:
- Climate may be a challenge for those unaccustomed to desert conditions.
- Certain rural areas may lack the amenities of larger cities.
Number of Students & Demographics
116.660 students, of which 58.2% of full-time students are female
Popular Student Areas
Las Vegas, Reno, and Henderson
Avg. Tuition Cost
$17,104
*Based on colleges listed above
Career Outlook for Students in Nevada
Employment Rate & Median Wage
Nevada boasts a robust job market with diverse opportunities.
As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate in Nevada has been steadily increasing (5.4%, April 2023), while the median wage is competitive, particularly in booming sectors like healthcare, IT, and hospitality.
The annual median wage is $55490.
Popular career paths for students in Nevada include:
- Healthcare Professions
- Information Technology Specialists
- Business Administration and Management
- Education Professionals
- Hospitality and Tourism Managers
- Social Workers
- Civil Engineers
- Environmental Scientists
- Marketing and PR Professionals
- Artists and Designers
FAQ about Colleges in Nevada
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) are considered some of the most competitive in terms of admissions, primarily due to their diverse program offerings and reputation.
Institutions like Great Basin College and Western Nevada College tend to have higher acceptance rates and are more accessible to a wider range of students.
In terms of the student population, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the University of Nevada, Reno, are among the largest in the state.
The University of Nevada, Reno, and Truckee Meadows Community College, among others, offer tuition reductions or free tuition programs for senior citizens.
*It’s important to note that each institution may have specific requirements and limitations for its senior citizen tuition programs. It’s recommended to check with the individual schools for more information on their policies and application processes.
Most Nevada colleges offer on-campus housing options like dormitories and apartments.
Off-campus housing is also readily available.
For transportation, students can often use school shuttle services, public transit, biking, or walking.
Some cities also have rideshare options available.
Nevada’s colleges and universities present numerous opportunities for student research across a wide array of disciplines.
For example, The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) houses the Undergraduate Research program, which supports student-driven research initiatives in everything from engineering to social sciences.
Students can get involved by visiting these offices’ websites or contacting them directly to learn about ongoing projects.
Nevada’s colleges and universities host various extracurricular activities that cater to a wide spectrum of interests.
At UNLV, for example, there are over 350 student organizations ranging from academic and professional clubs to cultural and recreational groups. This includes unique offerings like the Scuba Club or the UNLV Wine Club.
To get involved, students can visit their university’s student affairs or student engagement website to browse the list of clubs and organizations.
Summary
In sum, Nevada’s diverse educational landscape offers numerous colleges and universities, each with unique academic and lifestyle opportunities.
To select the right college, consider your personal goals, potential financial aid, and future career prospects in Nevada’s thriving job market.
With Nevada’s blend of urban and rural campuses, various research opportunities, and a wealth of extracurricular activities, the state provides a holistic educational experience.
So, what should you do next?
Start exploring Nevada’s colleges, envision your future here, and take the first step toward turning your educational dreams into reality.
Editorial Disclaimer
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