UNLV is a public research university that has transformed from a small desert outpost into a thriving metropolitan institution. Located on 335 acres in Las Vegas, the university holds Carnegie R1 classification - the nation's highest recognition for research institutions. UNLV offers 78 undergraduate majors, 84 minors, and more than 197 graduate degree and certificate programs across disciplines including hospitality, engineering, business, health sciences, and liberal arts.
As a minority-serving and Hispanic-serving institution, UNLV enrolls 32,911 students with 71% identifying as minority students. The university is central to Nevada's economic development, producing graduates who remain in the state at rates exceeding 60%. UNLV operates professional schools in law, medicine, and dental medicine, while conducting research that directly addresses regional challenges in water scarcity, renewable energy, and healthcare access. The university's Top Tier 2.0 strategic plan drives its mission to improve lives through education, research, and community engagement.