About University of New Mexico-Main Campus
The financial picture tells a story of accessibility and modest returns. Students pay an average net price of $17,478 after aid, while graduates earn a median of $44,792 ten years later. That creates a manageable debt load of $18,450 for most students. Monthly loan payments average $196, making UNM one of the more affordable paths to a four-year degree in the Southwest.
The Lobos compete in 14 NCAA Division I sports with $11.3 million in athletic scholarships. Hispanic students make up 51% of the campus, reflecting New Mexico's cultural identity. However, only 53% of students graduate within six years, and the 73% retention rate suggests many struggle with the transition to college life. Success here requires self-motivation and academic persistence.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 70.1%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 52.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 52.5%
- Retention Rate
- 72.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $44,792
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral University (R1)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $135,393 |
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $124,631 |
| Engineering, General. | Doctoral | $114,892 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $105,465 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $103,078 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $94,999 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $92,632 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Master | $92,632 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Master | $85,391 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $74,953 |
Campus Life
Hispanic students make up 50.52% of the student body, creating a active multicultural atmosphere where Spanish mingles with English across campus. The pueblo-style architecture reflects the region's Native American and Hispanic heritage, which UNM actively celebrates through its nationally recognized Native American Studies program. Students gather at the Duck Pond between classes or catch Lobo basketball and football games, where the school's fierce rivalry with New Mexico State heats up the crowd. Weekend activities often involve hiking in the nearby Sandia Mountains, exploring Albuquerque's Old Town, or attending concerts at venues throughout the city.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 2,492 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
Campus Safety (2023)
418 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 93 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Stalking | 56 | 25 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 55 | 5 | 0 | 7 |
| Domestic Violence | 48 | 18 | 0 | 1 |
| Burglary | 33 | 8 | 2 | 0 |
| Fondling | 36 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
| Rape | 14 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Arson | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Robbery | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Murder | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 26°–48°F
- July Avg
- 66°–91°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 8.8"
- Annual Snowfall
- 7.9"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 42.3%
- Women
- 57.7%
- White
- 28.7%
- Black
- 3.1%
- Hispanic
- 50.5%
- Asian
- 4.2%
- In-State Students
- 79.8%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 36.2%
Location
- Address
- Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $44,792
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $53,654
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $32,600
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 47.7%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $196/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $18,450
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of New Mexico-Main Campus?
The university accepts 96.07% of applicants, making it highly accessible to students. With an average ACT score of 22 and such open admissions, UNM focuses on providing opportunities for a diverse student body rather than exclusivity.
How much does University of New Mexico-Main Campus cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $17,478 annually across all income levels. In-state students benefit from reasonable tuition of $8,115, while the university keeps costs manageable with students graduating with a median debt of just $18,450.
What academic programs is University of New Mexico-Main Campus known for?
UNM operates as a major research university with particularly strong programs in medicine, engineering, and Native American studies. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio supports quality instruction across these flagship programs that have built the university's reputation.
What are job prospects like for University of New Mexico-Main Campus graduates?
Graduates achieve a 92.5% employment rate with median earnings of $44,792 ten years after graduation. The university's strong ties to New Mexico's research institutions and healthcare systems help students transition into careers, though the 52.5% six-year graduation rate shows academic challenges for some students.
Where do students live at University of New Mexico-Main Campus?
The campus houses 2,492 students in residence halls, serving a portion of the 16,686 total enrollment. Most students are New Mexico residents (79.82%) who often live off-campus in Albuquerque, giving the university a strong commuter culture mixed with traditional dorm life.
What makes the student body unique at University of New Mexico-Main Campus?
Hispanic students comprise 50.52% of enrollment, making UNM a Hispanic-Serving Institution with deep cultural connections to the Southwest. This diversity, combined with strong Native American studies programs, creates a campus environment that reflects New Mexico's unique multicultural heritage.
