Best Universities in Nevada

Top 10 Universities in Nevada

Nevada is home to several prestigious universities offering diverse educational opportunities. Below are the top 10 universities in Nevada, along with their overviews, rankings, key statistics, popular extracurricular activities, famous alumni, and top hiring companies.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), located in Paradise, Nevada, is a public research university known for its strong programs in hospitality, gaming, business, law, and engineering. Founded in 1957, UNLV offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across a wide range of disciplines. With a diverse student body, innovative research centers, and partnerships with industry leaders, UNLV provides students with opportunities for academic excellence, hands-on learning, and career advancement. The university’s vibrant campus life, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to community engagement create a dynamic learning environment for students to thrive and succeed in their chosen fields.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 258th in National Universities (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 30,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields including arts and sciences, business, engineering, hospitality, law, and medicine.

Acceptance Rate:

Around 81%.

Average SAT Score:

1070-1240 (middle 50%).

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Organizations
2. Greek Life and Social Clubs
3. Research and Academic Clubs

Famous Alumni:

1. Jimmy Kimmel – Television host and comedian
2. Steve Wynn – Business magnate and casino developer
3. Gina Carano – Actress and former MMA fighter
4. Adam Laxalt – Former Nevada Attorney General
5. Brandon Flowers – Lead singer of The Killers

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. MGM Resorts International
2. Caesars Entertainment
3. Las Vegas Sands Corporation
4. Clark County School District
5. Boyd Gaming Corporation

University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), located in Reno, Nevada, is a public research university founded in 1874. UNR offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as arts and sciences, engineering, business, education, and agriculture. With a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community engagement, UNR provides students with opportunities for academic excellence, hands-on learning, and leadership development. The university’s beautiful campus, supportive faculty, and vibrant student life contribute to a rich and dynamic educational experience.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 201st in National Universities (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 21,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields including arts and sciences, engineering, business, education, agriculture, and health sciences.

Acceptance Rate:

Around 88%.

Average SAT Score:

1100-1280 (middle 50%).

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Organizations
2. Outdoor Recreation and Sports Clubs
3. Research and Academic Societies

Famous Alumni:

1. Colin Kaepernick – Former NFL quarterback
2. Pat Nixon – Former First Lady of the United States
3. Brian Sandoval – Former Governor of Nevada
4. Jim Gibbons – Former Governor of Nevada
5. Pat McCarran – Former U.S. Senator

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Tesla, Inc.
2. Renown Health
3. Washoe County School District
4. Barrick Gold Corporation
5. Microsoft

Nevada State College (NSC)

Nevada State College (NSC), located in Henderson, Nevada, is a public college established in 2002. NSC offers bachelor’s degrees in various fields including nursing, education, business, liberal arts, and sciences. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and student success, NSC provides a supportive learning environment for non-traditional students, first-generation college students, and working professionals. The college’s small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities prepare students for career advancement and lifelong learning.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 58th in Regional Colleges West (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 7,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Bachelor’s degrees in fields such as nursing, education, business, liberal arts, and sciences.

Acceptance Rate:

Around 70%.

Average SAT Score:

980-1180 (middle 50%).

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
2. Community Service and Volunteer Work
3. Professional Development and Career Services

Famous Alumni:

Nevada State College is a relatively young institution and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Clark County School District
2. Valley Health System
3. MGM Resorts International
4. Caesars Entertainment
5. Station Casinos

These universities and colleges in Nevada provide diverse educational opportunities and have produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields.

Sierra Nevada University (SNU)

Sierra Nevada University (SNU), located in Incline Village, Nevada, is a private liberal arts university known for its innovative programs and personalized approach to education. Founded in 1969, SNU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as arts and sciences, business, environmental science, and outdoor adventure leadership. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning, experiential education, and sustainability, SNU provides students with opportunities to explore their passions, engage with real-world issues, and make a positive impact in their communities. The university’s small class sizes, close-knit community, and scenic location near Lake Tahoe create a unique and inspiring learning environment for students to thrive.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 20th in Regional Universities West (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 1,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as arts and sciences, business, environmental science, and outdoor adventure leadership.

Acceptance Rate:

Around 88%.

Average SAT Score:

1050-1260 (middle 50%).

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Clubs
2. Sustainability and Environmental Organizations
3. Performing Arts Groups and Creative Writing Workshops

Famous Alumni:

Sierra Nevada University is a relatively small institution and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
2. Vail Resorts
3. Tahoe Forest Hospital
4. Patagonia
5. The Nature Conservancy

Touro University Nevada (TUN)

Touro University Nevada (TUN), located in Henderson, Nevada, is a private graduate institution focused on healthcare education. Established in 2004, TUN offers professional degree programs in osteopathic medicine, physician assistant studies, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and education. With a commitment to service, leadership, and innovation, TUN prepares students to become compassionate healthcare professionals and educators who can meet the diverse needs of their communities. The university’s rigorous curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and emphasis on hands-on clinical experience ensure that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in healthcare and education.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 112th in Best Health Schools (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 1,400 students.

Degrees Offered:

Doctoral and master’s degrees in fields such as osteopathic medicine, physician assistant studies, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and education.

Acceptance Rate:

Not available.

Average SAT Score:

Touro University Nevada primarily focuses on graduate and professional programs and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Community Health Outreach and Service Projects
2. Student Government and Leadership Organizations
3. Research and Clinical Experience Opportunities

Famous Alumni:

Touro University Nevada is a relatively young institution and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center
2. University Medical Center of Southern Nevada
3. Southwest Medical Associates
4. Clark County School District
5. Touro University Nevada Health Centers

College of Southern Nevada (CSN)

The College of Southern Nevada (CSN), located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a public community college serving the greater Las Vegas area. Established in 1971, CSN offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs in various fields including arts and sciences, business, healthcare, and technology. As the largest and most diverse higher education institution in Nevada, CSN provides accessible and affordable education to students of all backgrounds. The college’s flexible scheduling options, online learning opportunities, and supportive faculty contribute to student success and workforce development in the region.

U.S. News Ranking:

Ranked 20th in Regional Colleges West (2022).

Number of Students:

Approximately 35,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Associate degrees and certificates in fields such as arts and sciences, business, healthcare, and technology.

Acceptance Rate:

Open enrollment policy.

Average SAT Score:

CSN primarily focuses on associate degree and certificate programs and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
2. Cultural and Diversity Clubs
3. Career and Professional Development Workshops

Famous Alumni:

College of Southern Nevada is a community college and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Clark County School District
2. MGM Resorts International
3. Caesars Entertainment
4. Allegiant Air
5. Station Casinos

Nevada State High School (NSHS)

Nevada State High School (NSHS) is a public charter school serving students in grades 11 and 12 across multiple campuses in Nevada. Established in 2004, NSHS offers dual enrollment programs that allow students to earn high school and college credits simultaneously. With a focus on academic rigor, personalized learning, and college readiness, NSHS provides motivated students with opportunities to excel academically and transition smoothly to higher education. The school’s supportive faculty, small class sizes, and emphasis on student success foster a culture of excellence and lifelong learning.

U.S. News Ranking:

Not applicable (Nevada State High School is not ranked by U.S. News).

Number of Students:

Approximately 2,000 students across multiple campuses.

Degrees Offered:

Nevada State High School primarily offers high school diplomas and college credits through dual enrollment programs.

Acceptance Rate:

Not applicable (Nevada State High School has an open enrollment policy).

Average SAT Score:

Nevada State High School primarily focuses on preparing students for college and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
2. Academic Clubs and Competitions
3. Community Service and Volunteer Projects

Famous Alumni:

Nevada State High School is a relatively young institution and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

Nevada State High School primarily focuses on preparing students for college and does not have specific hiring companies or organizations.

Great Basin College (GBC)

Great Basin College (GBC), located in Elko, Nevada, is a public institution offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as certificate programs, primarily in career and technical fields. Established in 1967, GBC serves rural communities in Nevada and offers flexible learning options including online courses and distance education. The college’s mission is to provide accessible and affordable education to students in the region, with a focus on workforce development and lifelong learning. GBC’s small class sizes, personalized instruction, and strong connections to local industries contribute to student success and economic growth in rural Nevada.

U.S. News Ranking:

Not ranked by U.S. News.

Number of Students:

Approximately 3,500 students.

Degrees Offered:

Associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as certificate programs, primarily in career and technical fields such as nursing, education, business, and technology.

Acceptance Rate:

Open enrollment policy.

Average SAT Score:

Great Basin College primarily focuses on career and technical education and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs)
2. Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
3. Community Service and Outreach Projects

Famous Alumni:

Great Basin College is a community college and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Barrick Gold Corporation
2. Newmont Corporation
3. Kinross Gold Corporation
4. Nevada Gold Mines
5. Elko County School District

Roseman University of Health Sciences

Roseman University of Health Sciences, with campuses in Henderson, Nevada, and South Jordan, Utah, is a private institution focused on healthcare education. Established in 1999, Roseman offers professional degree programs in pharmacy, nursing, dental medicine, and healthcare business administration. With a commitment to innovation, excellence, and community service, Roseman prepares students to become compassionate healthcare professionals and leaders in their fields. The university’s integrated curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and emphasis on interprofessional collaboration ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.

U.S. News Ranking:

Not ranked by U.S. News.

Number of Students:

Approximately 1,500 students across both campuses.

Degrees Offered:

Doctoral and master’s degrees in pharmacy, nursing, dental medicine, and healthcare business administration.

Acceptance Rate:

Not available.

Average SAT Score:

Roseman University primarily focuses on graduate and professional programs and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Professional Health Organizations and Honor Societies
2. Community Health Outreach and Service Projects
3. Research and Clinical Experience Opportunities

Famous Alumni:

Roseman University is a relatively young institution and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center
2. University Medical Center of Southern Nevada
3. Southwest Medical Associates
4. Clark County School District
5. Touro University Nevada Health Centers

Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC)

Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC), located in Reno, Nevada, is a public community college serving the northern Nevada region. Established in 1971, TMCC offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs in various fields including arts and sciences, business, healthcare, and technology. As an accessible and affordable institution, TMCC provides students with opportunities for academic and career advancement through quality education, support services, and community partnerships. The college’s commitment to student success, diversity, and innovation fosters a culture of learning and opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds.

U.S. News Ranking:

Not ranked by U.S. News.

Number of Students:

Approximately 11,000 students.

Degrees Offered:

Associate degrees and certificates in fields such as arts and sciences, business, healthcare, and technology.

Acceptance Rate:

Open enrollment policy.

Average SAT Score:

Truckee Meadows Community College primarily focuses on associate degree and certificate programs and does not require SAT scores for admission.

Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:

1. Student Government and Leadership Organizations
2. Career and Professional Development Workshops
3. Cultural and Diversity Clubs

Famous Alumni:

Truckee Meadows Community College is a community college and does not have widely recognized alumni at this time.

Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:

1. Renown Health
2. Tesla, Inc.
3. Washoe County School District
4. University of Nevada, Reno
5. Microsoft