About Our Program
When we think of health, we often focus on the physical and the mental. But there’s a third, often overlooked pillar–financial health. At UNLV’s Department of Finance, we’re committed to helping participants build stronger lives by strengthening this essential skill set. Each year, we offer 50+ course sections reaching more than 2,500 students. Our Financial Literacy series (FIN 111, 112, and 113) is designed to give every student the knowledge and confidence to take control of their money, investments, and future.
Course Topics
- Financial Literacy I: Achieving Financial Independence (FIN 111) – This course introduces students to personal finance and provides practical tools to successfully manage money. Topics include financial concepts, opportunity costs, lifestyle planning, and decision-making strategies. Through an applied, systematic approach with examples and case studies, students learn to make informed financial decisions tailored to their own circumstances.
- Financial Literacy II: Achieving Financial Success (FIN 112) – Learn more about personal investing, risk and return, how financial markets work, and strategies for building and managing investment portfolios.
- Managing Life’s Risks (FIN 113) – Address personal risks, including financial, health, unemployment, debt management, and retirement, and the tools to protect against them. Students examine solutions for safeguarding assets and managing uncertainty in different stages of life.
Who Can Participate
Non-Degree Seeking Students and Community Members
Non-degree-seeking students and community members must first apply to UNLV as a Non-Degree Student. After they receive admission in this category, they can log in to MyUNLV to search for financial literacy courses and register as long as there are open seats. No prerequisites are required.
Current UNLV Students
Current UNLV students can log in to MyUNLV to search for financial literacy courses and register during their registration period. No prerequisites are required.
Southern Nevada School Districts
Our commitment to financial literacy extends beyond UNLV’s campus. We are partnering with Southern Nevada school districts to bring our courses into area high schools as dual-credit opportunities. These partnerships empower students to build strong financial foundations before they even graduate high school.
- Ed W. Clark High School currently offers FIN 111 and FIN 112.
- Bonanza High School and Silverado High School have applied to join the program, with instructor training already underway.
We are eager to expand our impact in the local community. If you are interested in learning more or partnering with us, please contact professor Darwin Hopwood.