• Students sitting at computers participating in e-sports
  • Archaeology students working at Valley of Fire
  • Student working in a research lab

Highlights

From creating community partnerships and advancing student achievement, to promoting research, scholarship, and creative activity, we work hard to achieve our goal of becoming a top 100 American research university. Check out our highlights to learn our impact.

A woman in a recording booth.

Students in the Department of Film are pioneering the future of sound design by beta testing unreleased audio technology software from Holoplot. Using this tool, they created a documentary to showcase its potential and tested the results in Holoplot's U.S. office in Las Vegas. With direct connections to industry leaders, UNLV students are poised to redefine the boundaries of sound and film innovation.

Two people look over an exhibit at the Barrick Art Museum.

The UNLV College of Fine Arts introduced a BA in Creative Practice degree program for students wishing to pursue a career in the arts within a broad context. This innovative degree offers focused coursework in arts leadership, management, and entrepreneurship. With organizations across diverse industries seeking leaders who can integrate knowledge across disciplines, the program equips graduates to excel in a wide range of roles, driving innovation and advocacy in the arts and beyond.

A large crowd of students walking on campus.

Building on the momentum of historic spring 2024 enrollment, UNLV has surpassed its own record-breaking achievements again this fall, reaching a new enrollment milestone even as universities nationwide face declining enrollments. The university welcomed 32,911 students this fall – up nearly 6% over last year – which marks the highest enrollment total in UNLV’s 67-year history.

Engineering students working in a lab.

The College of Engineering has invested heavily in several initiatives over the years, taking a holistic approach to addressing the needs — from academic to financial to emotional — of a diverse, and growing, student body. The result: This fall, the college welcomed its largest-ever freshman cohort of nearly 700 students, with a record-breaking 88.7% first-year retention rate.

Dean of the School of Public Health in a mask talking to another colleague in a mask.

Twenty years ago this fall, the School of Public Health was established at UNLV with the goal of improving the health and well-being of people worldwide. In the last two decades, Public Health departments, programs, and research units have grown and prepared students to become leaders and professionals in the field of public health. In addition to advancing research in critical areas such as health equity, epidemiology, and environmental health, the college also led the effort to make UNLV a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus.

Two people shaking hands at a function.

In a world that grows more interconnected every day, the need for skilled professionals who understand technology, security, and diplomacy has never been greater. UNLV is now a partner institution for two prestigious U.S. Department of State fellowships, opening doors for students to enter the competitive arenas of international diplomacy and security. These State Department fellowships open doors not only to career-defining work but also the chance to serve on the front lines of global affairs.

Code on multiple screens

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity program has been ranked #2 in the nation by Fortune for 2025. This recognition highlights the university's commitment to providing a top-tier education that prepares students for the rapidly growing cybersecurity field. Developed in partnership between the Lee Business School and the Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering, the program’s interdisciplinary, workforce-focused approach ensures that graduates are prepared for today’s challenges and also ready to lead the cybersecurity industry of tomorrow.

A group of faculty and community partners in front of the Sports Innovation Institute mobile SPEED Lab.

With the donation of a sprinter-type van from Kaptyn, a sustainable transportation technology company, the UNLV Sports Innovation Institute's SPEED (Sports Performance, Education, and Economic Development) Lab has taken a major step forward. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the SPEED Lab will deliver real-time sport science demonstrations, conduct field research, and engage the community in educational programs aimed at promoting pathways to sports-related careers. Faculty and staff will collaborate with the SPEED Lab to enhance their research and outreach efforts. The SPEED Lab’s mobility will also allow UNLV students to gain practical training while collaborating with community organizations and local sports entities like the Vegas Golden Knights, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Ultimate Fighting Championship.