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Small Colleges in Nevada

14 schools in Nevada. See our methodology.

Great Basin College offers the lowest net cost among Nevada's small colleges at just $7,523, making higher education remarkably affordable in a state known for its lack of income tax. The 14 small colleges across Nevada show striking variety, from career-focused institutions like Northwest Career College with 2,222 students to specialized programs at Touro University Nevada with only 19 enrolled. Graduation rates span from 31% to 75%, reflecting different institutional missions and student populations. Health sciences dominates the market, with Roseman University graduates earning $120,163 annually and nursing programs at Arizona College achieving 100% acceptance rates. Nevada's economic shift beyond gaming creates opportunities for these smaller institutions. Tesla's Gigafactory and expanding renewable energy sector drive demand for technical training, while Las Vegas and Reno's growing logistics hubs need skilled workers. The state's business-friendly environment, with no corporate or personal income tax, attracts companies that partner with these colleges for workforce development. Career colleges like Northwest and Carrington target practical skills for immediate employment, while full institutions like Nevada State University serve broader educational needs. This mix reflects Nevada's transition from a tourism-dependent economy to one embracing technology, healthcare, and sustainable energy industries.
14
Schools
$26,287
Avg. Net Price
$53,713
Avg. Earnings
50.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Small Colleges in Nevada

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 1,855 $7,523 51.5%
2 1,967 $12,424 36.6%
3 545 $29,115 57.9%
4 554
5 3,791 $13,208 31.0% 82.5%
6 1,185 $32,603 75.0% 100.0%
7 19
8 573 $40,925 81.8%
9 2,222 $14,842 67.3%
10 500 $47,705 49.3%
11 396 $37,850 50.0%
12 748 $22,661 49.4%
13 4
14 359 $30,306 41.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Nevada's small colleges unusually affordable compared to other states?

Nevada's 14 small colleges benefit from the state's tax structure and range from $7,523 at Great Basin College to $47,705 at Carrington College-Reno. The absence of state income tax helps institutions keep costs lower, while community colleges receive state funding that reduces student expenses significantly.

How do graduation rates vary among Nevada's small colleges?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 31% at Nevada State University to 75% at Arizona College of Nursing-Las Vegas. Career-focused programs typically show higher completion rates, with Northwest Career College achieving 67.3% compared to broader institutions that serve more varied student populations with varying academic preparation.

Is healthcare education the primary focus of small Nevada colleges?

Healthcare programs dominate earnings potential, with Roseman University graduates earning $120,163 and Chamberlain University-Nevada graduates making $92,405. Of the 14 institutions, at least 6 specialize in health sciences, reflecting Nevada's growing medical sector and aging population demographics driving healthcare job demand.

Does Nevada's job market support graduates from these small colleges?

Nevada's economic diversification beyond gaming creates strong job prospects. Tesla's Gigafactory employs thousands, renewable energy projects expand statewide, and logistics companies use Nevada's tax advantages. Graduate earnings range from $27,530 to $120,163, with technical and healthcare fields showing the strongest employment outcomes.

Where do most of Nevada's small colleges concentrate geographically?

Las Vegas area hosts 8 of the 14 institutions, including specialized programs and career colleges serving the metropolitan population of 2.3 million. Henderson houses 3 schools, while Carson City, Elko, and Reno each host one, reflecting Nevada's urban concentration and rural service needs.

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Small Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Nevada Cheapest Programs in Nevada

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.