Best
Value Colleges in Nevada in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nevada develops skills for managing organizations across industries. Programs typically cover accounting, finance, marketing, economics, management, business law, and data analysis. Popular options include the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; the University of Nevada, Reno; and Nevada State University. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or entrepreneur. Nevada's tourism, gaming, healthcare, and technology sectors offer varied opportunities for applying these skills.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nevada offers coursework in research methods, developmental psychology, social behavior, cognition, abnormal psychology, and counseling foundations. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Popular options include the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; the University of Nevada, Reno; and Nevada State University. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, or community outreach coordinator. Clinical practice typically requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nevada combines programming fundamentals with problem-solving and opportunities in Nevada's technology economy. Students typically study algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Nevada's popular options include the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and the University of Nevada, Reno, both offering computer science degrees. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators, working in technology, gaming, healthcare, and government.

Counseling

A counseling program in Nevada combines coursework and supervised practice to prepare students for helping professions. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and practicum experiences. Nevada options include the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), both offering relevant graduate training. Graduates may pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, or career counselors; clinical roles generally require licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nevada can lead to an associate or bachelor's degree and prepare students for licensure as registered nurses. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical rotations. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, emergency departments, or public health. Popular colleges include the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada State University, and College of Southern Nevada.

Best Colleges in Nevada Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 16,448, compared with 26,572 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 10,124.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 86.6% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 86.6%. Schools receive an average of 5,382.5 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 15,204.5.
• The median number of male applicants is 270.5, compared with 658.0 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,165, and the average ACT score is 23.0.
• The average number of enrolled students is 10,470.64. Average enrollment is 704.0 men and 972.4 women.
• The average graduation rate is 38.1%, compared with 63.1% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 29.5% for men and 36.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 14 offer bachelor's degrees, seven offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 11 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid availability, and consider how admissions selectivity and student enrollment align with your preferences. Also pay close attention to graduation rates, including the differences between the overall average and the top-10% average, and check which degree levels are offered to ensure a school fits your academic goals.

How much does studying at a college in Nevada cost?

The average total cost of studying in Nevada is $19,103.31, giving you a useful baseline for planning your degree. This figure can help you compare options such as the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), both popular choices for students across the state. Tuition and fees average $13,404.71, while books and supplies add about $1,030.38.

Room and board average $15,862.75. Treat the figures as separate benchmarks. Your actual expenses depend on campus, residency, program, housing, and enrollment. Nevada residents may find public universities appealing, while aid and scholarships can lower costs. Compare each school's current cost estimate, including tuition and living expenses. Living at home near UNLV or UNR, for instance, may reduce housing costs. A thoughtful budget can make earning a Nevada degree feel more manageable and keep you focused on a program that fits your goals and your future career plans.

How long does it take to finish college in Nevada?

An associate degree in Nevada typically takes about two years of full-time study, while a bachelor's degree usually takes four. Students at the University of Nevada, Reno, UNLV, or Nevada State University can finish on schedule by planning course schedules. This assumes full-time enrollment and no extended breaks between academic terms.

Nevada's average graduation rate is 38.1%, or about 38 in 100 students; the average for the top 10% of schools is 63.1%. Rates are 30.6% for men and 45.33% for women. These figures show that finishing is achievable, but planning and support matter.

You may be able to earn your degree faster through summer classes, Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible credits, or choosing an accelerated program. Ask an adviser at your Nevada campus to check which credits apply before enrolling; a clear plan can help you save time and tuition while keeping your goal within reach.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Nevada, alumni earn a median salary of about $48,915. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $93,380. These figures offer a useful sense of earning potential, though your own pay will depend on your field, degree, experience, and the job market.

Whether you study at the University of Nevada, Reno, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada State University, or the College of Southern Nevada, your program and career path can make a big difference. Fields such as healthcare, engineering, business, and technology may lead to different salary outcomes, so compare programs and consider the careers they prepare you for.

• Median alumni salary: about $48,915
• Median alumni salary at top 10% schools: about $93,380

People also ask

What college in Nevada has the lowest tuition?

For Nevada residents, Great Basin College is one of the least expensive options, but it may not be the only one: several public community colleges have similar per-credit tuition. Your total cost can differ because of mandatory fees, program charges, and course load, so compare the full estimated cost for your specific program before choosing.

What are Tier 1 schools in Nevada?

Nevada's two universities commonly described as Tier 1 are the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Both are major public research universities offering a broad range of academic programs and research opportunities. The term "Tier 1" is used informally and can depend on the ranking or classification system being referenced.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Nevada Ranking in 2026-2027

For Nevada students seeking a large public university in a Reno setting, the University of Nevada-Reno enrolls 24,061 students. It reports a 61% graduation rate and 74% acceptance rate, offering a useful starting point for comparing admission and completion outcomes. The estimated total cost of studying is $26,572, while the median alumni salary is $48,017. Its comprehensive campus can suit students wanting varied degree choices and access to Reno's urban and outdoor surroundings while remaining in Nevada for their education and career planning.

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) enrolls 33,708 students, making it the largest school in this group. Based in Las Vegas, it offers a metropolitan campus experience and a broad university environment for pursuing a degree in Nevada. Its acceptance rate is 96%, its graduation rate is 51%, and its total study cost is $26,572. The median alumni salary is $48,181. Students can weigh the high admission rate alongside graduation outcomes and costs, then consider whether city life, varied academic pathways, and Nevada-based opportunities match their goals.

Nevada State University offers Nevada residents a smaller public university setting, with 7,549 enrolled students. Located in Henderson, it provides an in-state option for students seeking degree study near the Las Vegas region. Its reported graduation rate is 34%, and its acceptance rate is 87%. The total study cost is $21,158, the lowest among these five schools, while the median alumni salary is $71,954, the highest. These figures may interest cost-conscious applicants comparing potential outcomes, campus scale, and local access before choosing a Nevada degree program.

Great Basin College is a Nevada public college with 3,320 enrolled students, offering a small setting for students who prefer a less populous campus. Its acceptance rate is not available in the supplied data, so applicants should confirm current admissions details directly with the college. The graduation rate is 41%. The total study cost is $11,816, the lowest listed, and the median alumni salary is $59,130. For Nevada residents prioritizing affordability, this institution merits comparison alongside program availability, location, and personal goals.

College of Southern Nevada (CSN) enrolls 28,313 students, making it a community college choice for Nevada learners. Its 19% graduation rate is lower than the other listed institutions, and no acceptance rate is available in the supplied figures. The total study cost is $12,379, while the median alumni salary is $43,922. Students comparing degree pathways may find CSN's scale and cost worth examining, while checking which programs align with transfer plans, career aims, and the Nevada communities they hope to serve.