The Lied Library

About Us

Two flags, a Chinese flag and an American flag, next to each other

Who We Are

Here at the Sands Institute for Chinese Language and Culture at UNLV, we celebrate the richness of Chinese heritage and traditions through a comprehensive approach to education and engagement. Our offerings include Mandarin language courses, cultural events, and international exchanges designed to promote mutual respect and understanding between the people of the United States and China. By providing these transformative experiences, we empower individuals to broaden their horizons and embrace the opportunities of a globally connected society.

Our Location

The Sands Institute is situated in Las Vegas, a city renowned for its cultural vibrancy and global reach. UNLV, one of the nation’s most inclusive universities, complements the Institute’s mission to build bridges across cultures and celebrate diversity.

Night view of the Greenspun Hall

Our Partners

The Institute is generously supported by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation, a global leader in integrated resorts and a committed partner in advancing international cooperation. We collaborate with leading Chinese research universities, including Sun Yat-sen University, Beijing Normal University, and Wuhan University, to create opportunities for engagement and exchange. We also work with a variety of UNLV and local partners in fulfilling our shared goals to enrich our community.

Las Vegas Sands Corporation logo

What We Offer

The Sands Institute offers a wide range of educational and cultural programs, activities, and resources.

Inked Chinese characters on paper with a brush and ink above the paper

Mandarin Language Instruction

Non-credit courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.

A green dragon statue perched on top of a temple

Cultural Literacy Training

Specialized courses on various aspects of Chinese culture including history and philosophy.

A man speaking while holding up a microphone with his hand

Seminars and Lectures

Topics ranging from medicine and art to contemporary Chinese society.

A person holding their graduation sash with the words "UNLV International Student" on it

Student Support

Scholarships, study abroad, internships, graduate assistantships, and student exchanges.

One woman looking down at a booklet while at a conference

Faculty Engagement and Scholarly Activities

Faculty exchanges and collaborative scholarly projects with partner universities in China.

A group of people painting on the windows of the Student Union

Events

Chinese New Year celebrations, film screenings, and musical performances.

A classroom with desks and chairs

Community Outreach

Programs for schools and other organizations.