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University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Omnia Pro Patria”("All For Our Country")

1957
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
31,142
Total Students
25,795
Undergrad
4,282
Graduate
$471M
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Christopher L. Heavey (interim)

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Igniting intellect just steps from the Las Vegas Strip, UNLV is a beacon of high-impact research.

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) stands as a dynamic public land-grant research university, uniquely positioned just 1.6 miles east of the iconic Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. More than just its captivating location, UNLV is a powerhouse of academic exploration, classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." This designation underscores its commitment to pioneering research across a broad spectrum of fields, making it an exciting environment for students eager to contribute to significant discoveries.

From its humble beginnings as the Southern Division of the University of Nevada in 1957, UNLV has evolved into a comprehensive institution. The university's history is marked by a steady expansion from its initial 60-acre footprint, symbolizing its growth as a "Beacon of Knowledge" for Southern Nevada. The institution's enduring motto, "Omnia Pro Patria" (All For Our Country), reflects a deep-seated commitment to public service and advancing the common good through education and innovation.

Prospective students will find UNLV a vibrant academic community offering a wide array of programs and professional schools. Its academic strengths are particularly evident in its specialized colleges, including the state's only law school, the William S. Boyd School of Law, alongside a robust School of Medicine and School of Dental Medicine. With a diverse student body of over 31,000, UNLV provides a lively campus experience, fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing graduates to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Designated as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking research.
  • ✦Strategically located just 1.6 miles east of the Las Vegas Strip, offering unique cultural and professional opportunities.
  • ✦Houses the William S. Boyd School of Law, the only law school in the state of Nevada.
  • ✦Manages an endowment of approximately $0.5 billion, supporting its academic and research endeavors.
  • ✦Serves a large and diverse student body exceeding 31,000 individuals.
  • ✦Annually invests $83 million in research and development, ranking 165th nationally (as of 2018).
  • ✦Its motto, "Omnia Pro Patria," translates to "All For Our Country," embodying a spirit of public service.

Timeline

1955
Legislation passed to fund the construction of the first campus building, Frazier Hall.
1956
Groundbreaking for the original campus site.
1957
Officially founded as the Southern Division of the University of Nevada on September 10.
1959
First college classes offered as the southern regional extension division of the University of Nevada.
1964
First commencement ceremonies held, with twenty-nine students graduating.
1965
Renamed Nevada Southern University.
1969
Became an independent institution and adopted its current name, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).
🏛️
69 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within University of Nevada-Las Vegas

⚖️

William S. Boyd School of Law

The only law school in the state of Nevada.

🏥

School of Medicine

Housed at the Shadow Lane Campus, contributing to medical education in Southern Nevada.

🏥

School of Dental Medicine

Also located at the Shadow Lane Campus, providing dental education and care.

Leadership

Christopher L. Heavey (interim)
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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