Lee Business School has set a new benchmark. This fall, interest in its graduate programs surged, highlighting both rising demand in the labor market and UNLV’s growing reputation for career-focused education.
The trend became clear over the summer as applications poured in, and by the start of Fall 2025, the results were unmistakable: across every business program, more students applied — and more enrolled — than ever before.
The MBA program grew significantly, with applications up 65 percent and enrollments climbing 33 percent. The MSQF in Quantitative Finance also saw strong gains, rising 46 percent in applications and 43 percent in enrollments. Technology programs posted the steepest growth: Management Information Systems more than doubled, with applications up 112 percent and enrollments up 119 percent, while Cybersecurity soared with applications up 142 percent and enrollments up 114 percent.
“These numbers reflect what we hear directly from students,” said Vincent Hsu, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Programs. “They want flexibility, practical skills, and clear pathways to career advancement. Our programs are delivering that in ways that resonate.”
Preparing for Tomorrow’s Workforce
The momentum is fueled in part by national labor market trends. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), information security analysis roles are projected to grow by 29 percent between 2024 and 2034, nearly six times faster than the average for all occupations.
“Our graduates are stepping into industries that are expanding rapidly,” said MBA director, John Baur, Ph.D. “The demand is real, and our role is to make sure students are prepared not only with technical expertise but also with the leadership skills that allow them to thrive in dynamic organizations.”
Evolving the Curriculum with Industry
Part of the school’s success comes from a curriculum designed for access and flexibility. Graduate students can pursue degrees in-person or online, an approach that expands opportunity for working professionals while maintaining academic rigor. This allows students to choose the learning format that best fits their lives without compromising the quality of their education.
Equally important is a commitment to curriculum innovation that reflects the demands of today’s workforce. The Finance Department, for example, is introducing a new financial technology course that brings students into direct contact with blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Python-based finance analytics. By weaving emerging technologies into the classroom, Lee ensures its graduates are prepared for industries where AI, fintech, and data-driven decision-making are becoming essential.
“Financial technology is reshaping global markets, and our students are gaining early exposure to the tools driving that change,” said Andrew Zhang, Ph.D., director of the MSQF program. “By integrating fintech into the curriculum, we give our students a competitive advantage and the confidence to innovate in their careers.”
Recruitment with Purpose
Lee’s record enrollment is not only the product of strong academics. The school has invested in smarter recruitment, from digital campaigns that reach prospective students nationwide to campus outreach that helps current undergraduates envision graduate study as part of their UNLV journey.
“Digital outreach really lets us connect with candidates right where they’re making decisions,” said Lisa Davis, Executive Director, Office of Graduate Student Services. “At the same time, we’re raising awareness among our own undergraduates, so they see a natural pathway from earning their bachelor’s degree to continuing on with graduate study here at Lee.”
Strengthening Nevada’s Economy Through Education
Behind the record-breaking numbers is a simple truth: graduate business education at Lee Business School is fueling both individual success and collective progress. As enrollments climb, so too does the university’s capacity to prepare leaders who will drive Nevada’s economy forward.
“These results validate the vision we’ve pursued,” said Hsu. “Our programs are growing, our students are thriving, and UNLV is positioned to make an even greater impact.”