Comparing two universities can be an extensive task, especially when considering factors such as cost, admissions, academics, diversity, and student outcomes. In this article, we will delve into a detailed comparison between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). By analyzing various aspects, we hope to help students and their families make an informed decision when choosing between these two institutions.
UNLV Overview
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a public research university located in Las Vegas, Nevada. Established in 1957, UNLV has grown to offer over 300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs to more than 30,000 students. The main campus spans 332 acres and is home to diverse student population and various research facilities, making it an attractive option for students looking for an enriching college experience.
UNLV Costs & Tuition
Tuition at UNLV for the 2021-2022 academic year is $8,291 for Nevada residents and $23,342 for out-of-state students. In addition to tuition, students should also consider the cost of room and board, which averages around $11,000 per year, as well as other expenses such as books, transportation, and personal expenses.
UNLV Admissions
UNLV has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of approximately 81%. Applicants are required to submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score range of 1030-1240 and an ACT score range of 19-25.
UNLV Degrees Offered
UNLV offers a wide variety of degree programs across its 16 colleges and schools, including the College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Fine Arts, and the William S. Boyd School of Law. Some popular undergraduate majors include Business, Health Sciences, Hospitality Management, and Psychology.
UNLV Academics
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, UNLV offers a relatively intimate learning environment for students. The university is also known for its strong emphasis on research, with several research centers and institutes on campus, such as the Barrick Museum of Art and the International Gaming Institute.
UNLV Diversity
UNLV prides itself on its diverse student body, with 38% of students identifying as Hispanic/Latino, 22% as White, 15% as Asian, and 8% as Black or African American. The university has been recognized as a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) and an Asian American and Native American, Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
UNLV Students
UNLV has a total enrollment of approximately 31,000 students, with 25,000 undergraduate and 6,000 graduate students. The university offers various resources and support services for students, including academic advising, career services, and mental health counseling.
UNLV Campus
The UNLV campus spans 332 acres in the heart of Las Vegas, offering a unique urban setting for students. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Greenspun Hall, which houses the Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies, and the Hospitality Hall, which is home to the world-renowned William F. Harrah College of Hospitality. On-campus housing options are also available for students at UNLV.
UNLV Alumni
UNLV boasts a strong alumni network, with notable graduates including journalist and political commentator Jon Ralston, former NBA player Shawn Marion, and actress Rutina Wesley.
UNLV Rankings
According to the U.S. News & World Report, UNLV ranks #258 in National Universities, #126 in Top Public Schools, and #199 in Best Value Schools.
UNLV Outcomes
UNLV reports a six-year graduation rate of 45%, with 73% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for UNLV graduates is around $43,000.
University of Nevada, Reno Overview
The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is a public research university located in Reno, Nevada. Founded in 1874, UNR offers more than 460 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs to over 21,000 students. The university is known for its strong focus on research, innovation, and hands-on learning experiences.
University of Nevada, Reno Costs & Tuition
Tuition for the 2021-2022 academic year at UNR is $8,366 for Nevada residents and $24,417 for out-of-state students. Similar to UNLV, students should also factor in the cost of room and board, which averages around $11,500 per year, as well as other expenses like books, transportation, and personal expenses.
University of Nevada, Reno Admissions
UNR has a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of approximately 88%. Applicants must submit their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score range of 1080-1300 and an ACT score range of 21-27.
University of Nevada, Reno Degrees Offered
UNR offers a wide range of programs across its 11 colleges and schools, including the College of Education, College of Science, College of Business, and the School of Medicine. Some popular undergraduate majors at UNR include Nursing, Business, Engineering, and Psychology.
University of Nevada, Reno Academics
UNR has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1, providing a slightly more intimate learning environment than UNLV. The university is classified as a “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
University of Nevada, Reno Diversity
UNR has a diverse student body, with 37% of students identifying as Hispanic/Latino, 34% as White, 14% as Asian, and 4% as Black or African American. Like UNLV, UNR has also been recognized as a Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) and an Asian American and Native American, Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
University of Nevada, Reno Students
UNR has a total enrollment of approximately 21,000 students, with 17,000 undergraduate and 4,000 graduate students. The university offers various resources and support services for students, including academic advising, career services, and mental health counseling.
University of Nevada, Reno Campus
The UNR campus covers 290 acres in Reno, Nevada, offering a beautiful setting with views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center, which serves as the university’s library and technology hub, and the Davidson Mathematics and Science Center.
University of Nevada, Reno Alumni
Notable UNR alumni include former U.S. Senator Harry Reid, former NBA player Deonte Burton, and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Mark Twain.
University of Nevada, Reno Rankings
According to the U.S. News & World Report, UNR ranks #227 in National Universities, #106 in Top Public Schools, and #189 in Best Value Schools.
University of Nevada, Reno Outcomes
UNR reports a six-year graduation rate of 61%, with 82% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for UNR graduates is around $45,000.
UNLV vs University of Nevada, Reno Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of attending UNLV and UNR, both universities have similar tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students. However, UNR’s room and board expenses are slightly higher than UNLV’s. Overall, both universities offer a relatively affordable education compared to other institutions in the United States.
UNLV vs University of Nevada, Reno Admissions Difficulty
In terms of admissions difficulty, UNR has a slightly higher acceptance rate than UNLV. However, the middle 50% SAT and ACT score ranges for admitted students at UNR are somewhat higher than at UNLV, indicating that UNR may be slightly more selective when it comes to admissions criteria.
UNLV vs University of Nevada, Reno Academic Difficulty
Both universities offer rigorous academic programs, with UNR having a slightly lower student-to-faculty ratio than UNLV. Additionally, both institutions have a strong emphasis on research and hands-on learning experiences. The choice between the two universities in terms of academics may come down to individual preferences and program offerings.
UNLV vs University of Nevada, Reno Outcome Comparison
When comparing student outcomes, UNR has a higher six-year graduation rate and a higher percentage of graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. Additionally, the average starting salary for UNR graduates is slightly higher than that of UNLV graduates. However, it’s essential to consider individual programs, as outcomes may vary depending on the specific field of study.
