Our University
Since our first classes were held on campus in 1957, UNLV has transformed itself from a small branch college into a thriving urban research institution. Along the way, our urban university has become an indispensable resource in one of the country's fastest-growing and most enterprising cities.
Vision and Mission
As a minority-serving institution rich with diversity and committed to equity, UNLV provides access to world-class educational experiences that are responsive to the needs of our students and stakeholders;
engages in groundbreaking research, scholarship, professional, and creative activities that have impact and cross boundaries; and
offers high-value, cutting-edge interdisciplinary physical and mental health care to support our community. We create value for the individuals and communities we serve by fostering a climate of innovation, stimulating economic diversification and workforce development, promoting social justice and inclusion of all voices, and enriching cultural vitality.
Our vision is improving the lives of our diverse students and transforming our communities through education and engagement.
University Leadership
Keith E. Whitfield, Ph.D., joined UNLV as its 11th president on Aug. 24. An experienced university administrator and prolific scholar, President Whitfield is a former university provost and psychologist with expertise on the social, psychological, and cultural factors related to cognition and healthy aging.
Diversity
Here at UNLV, we have come together and created one of the most affirmative and dynamic academic environments in the country. UNLV has ranked in the top ten spot in U.S. News & World Report’s annual listing of the nation’s most diverse universities for undergraduates since the rankings debuted more than a decade ago. UNLV has achieved designation from the U.S Department of Education as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), Title III-Asian American and Native American, Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, as well as a Title V - Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). We continue to show our commitment to serving our wonderfully diverse population and building the future for Las Vegas and Nevada.
Free Speech
As a public university, UNLV is committed to upholding and protecting freedom of expression. This includes constitutionally protected rights of free speech and assembly, regardless of content.
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.
Facts and Stats (2022)
University Policies and Statements
Explore Our History
Thanks to its innovative frontier spirit, UNLV has kept pace with one of the country's fastest-growing and most enterprising cities. Our History »
