At $10,011/yr net price, University of Nevada-Las Vegas graduates earn $55,037/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,037/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,011 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,044 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,037/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,037/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 50.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,450 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,024/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,679/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,529/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,169/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,555/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $117,572 | |
| Dentistry. | Doctoral | $106,421 | $317,068 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $99,683 | $34,991 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $90,856 | $41,000 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Master | $84,653 | $45,094 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $81,433 | $93,500 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $75,313 | $19,250 |
| Hospitality Administration/Management. | Master | $73,949 | |
| Law. | Doctoral | $72,177 | $82,985 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $70,296 | $24,896 |
The Risk Factor
50.1% of students at University of Nevada-Las Vegas graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers solid financial value for a public university, with low net costs offsetting modest post-graduation earnings. At $10,011 annually, UNLV costs significantly less than most four-year institutions, while graduates earn a median $55,037 after ten years.
The nursing program stands out as UNLV's strongest financial investment, producing graduates who earn nearly $100,000 annually with manageable debt around $35,000. Business administration also delivers strong returns at $90,856 in median earnings. However, avoid the dental program unless you have substantial financial backing - graduates face over $300,000 in debt despite high earnings potential.
UNLV's biggest financial risk lies in its 50% graduation rate. Half of students never finish their degrees, making the low sticker price meaningless if you don't complete your program. The 78% retention rate suggests many students struggle academically or financially during their first year.
You should consider UNLV if you're Nevada resident seeking affordable education in nursing, business, or health administration. The school makes particular sense for students who need to work while studying, given Las Vegas's hospitality job market. However, look elsewhere if you're considering majors outside the high-earning programs, as the modest overall earnings may not justify four years of study.
With only 40% of students receiving financial aid, UNLV appears to keep costs low through state funding rather than generous aid packages. Focus on completing your degree quickly to maximize the value of those low annual costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Nevada-Las Vegas worth the cost?
UNLV offers decent value with a low net price of $10,011 annually and median debt of $19,450. However, the 50% graduation rate means half of students don't finish, which significantly hurts ROI for those who leave without a degree.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Nevada-Las Vegas?
Nursing and dentistry programs at UNLV lead earnings, with nursing graduates earning around $99,000-$117,000 and dentistry graduates earning $106,000. Business administration graduates earn about $91,000, while other programs typically earn closer to the school average of $55,000.
How much debt do University of Nevada-Las Vegas graduates have?
UNLV graduates carry a median debt of $19,450, which is manageable compared to many schools. The low in-state tuition keeps borrowing reasonable for most students who complete their degrees.
Does University of Nevada-Las Vegas have good job prospects after graduation?
UNLV graduates earn an average of $55,037 ten years after enrollment, which is modest but reasonable given the low cost of attendance. Job prospects vary significantly by major, with healthcare and business programs offering the strongest earning potential.