The number of degrees awarded by UNLV this year has increased approximately 22 percent over last year's figure.

Statistics compiled by UNLV's Office of Institutional Analysis and Planning show that UNLV's class of 2000 numbers approximately 3,744 as compared with 3,071 in 1999. The figure for 2000 includes students who completed their degree work in August 1999, December 1999, and May 2000.

The increase in undergraduate degrees was approximately 22 percent, while the number of graduate degrees climbed about 23 percent.

Commencement ceremonies took place Sunday at the Thomas & Mack Center.

"A 22 percent increase in degrees earned from one year to the next is significant and is a clear reflection of the tremendous growth we're experiencing at UNLV," said university President Carol C. Harter. "The increase also reflects the many efforts made by the university to help students graduate in a timely manner. With the population of Southern Nevada continuing to grow and with the Millennium Scholarship program coming on line in the fall, we know that the numbers will only continue to increase for several years to come. Our challenge will be in finding ways to meet the growing demand for a UNLV education. But it is a challenge we welcome."

Other statistics about the class of 2000 show:

-- 59 percent are women.

-- 41 percent are men.

-- 22 percent are minority students.

-- The average age of those receiving bachelor's degrees is 28.

-- The average age of those receiving graduate degrees is 35.

-- The average age of UNLV graduates in the class of 2000 overall is 30.

-- 79 percent are Nevada residents.

-- UNLV has graduates from all 50 states and from Guam.

-- There are graduates from 44 foreign countries.

Since 1964, the university has awarded approximately 48,820 degrees, including more than 36,000 bachelor's degrees.