As the fall semester at UNLV begins this week, a record number of students – more than 33,000 – have chosen to start or continue their studies here on our campus. This fall’s record class extends a three-year enrollment growth streak for UNLV and includes more than 8,000 new students. 

This continued growth is an achievement that speaks volumes. During a period of uncertainty and flat or declining enrollments for higher education nationally, more students than ever are coming to UNLV because they believe a degree from our institution will improve their lives and the lives of their families.

And it does. More than half of UNLV’s graduates are the first in their families to earn a bachelor’s degree, and our university is growing in areas vital to the region’s current and future economic success. 

Business and engineering, along with nursing, continue to lead UNLV in terms of enrollment growth. This fall, we’re launching Nevada’s first bachelor’s degree in insurance and risk management to serve an industry in dire need of an infusion of new talent. We’re also starting an undergraduate degree in cybersecurity to complement a hybrid master’s program that began earlier this year.

UNLV is also introducing a collection of credit-bearing microcredentials this fall in a number of academic programs – including fields like nuclear technology – to create stronger alignment between our current offerings and emerging workforce and industry needs. 
 
For our students to get to the finish line – crossing the stage at commencement – they have to start the race. That’s what makes the energy and excitement of a new academic year so special. 

As we begin a new semester, I truly believe there is no better place to learn and to discover than right here at UNLV. I invite you to read more about what’s new at UNLV this fall -- or check out this short video welcome -- and I thank you for your continued support of our students and your engagement with this great university. 

Warm Wishes,

Chris Heavey
Interim UNLV President