Nevada has a public two-year university and 26 public four-year academic institutions. Also, the state offers three private, not-for-profit institutions and 15 for-profit schools. Every college or university in Nevada charges its tuition fees and provides several scholarships or grants. In 2016, the state saw the highest enrollment in the country, with approximately 136,102 enrolled students. Most of Nevada’s academic institutions feature different tuition fees for in-state and out-of-state students, but some colleges or universities offer a flat-rate price to all students regardless of residency status.
Educational institutions in Nevada offer an excellent opportunity for non-traditional students exploring to earn a degree but who have other personal and professional obligations to attend to. The Vegas metropolitan area continues to expand, as such are its universities and the programs they offer. There are approximately 9.8% of students in higher education who are enrolled in entirely online programs with a Nevada academic institution.
Choosing to earn a degree through online education results in lower tuition rates, flexible schedules, and self-paced courses. College and universities in Nevada encourage both residents and non-residents to enroll in it’s quality online programs that include several student services and support references. Distance learners are granted the same degree as on-campus students.
Also, there are numerous rapidly-growing career opportunities in Nevada with massive growth percentages that are listed in this article to provide students an idea of employment opportunities and the income they can expect after graduation.
METHODOLOGY
Designed to assist students in finding the best online college in the state, the 5 Top Online Schools in Nevada features the top-rated academic institutions in the state. Our researchers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com picked these online schools because of their top-rated degree programs that provide students with an exceptional learning experience. These online schools share these salient features:
- Robust curricula and rigorous coursework designed for top-quality education and training,
- A competent online faculty recognized for their expertise in the field,
- A virtual learning platform offering ease of access to coursework and lessons, while also providing student resources and technical support,
- Accreditation from agencies that promote high academic standards.
Learn about our ranking process. Visit our Methodology Page.
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
The University of Nevada-Las Vegas is a public research university that houses the only dental school and law school in the state. UNLV’s academic community comprises of 25,000 undergraduates, 5,000 graduate and professional students, and 1,000 faculty members. Prospective students who are interested in enrolling in high-quality programs can choose from UNLV’s offerings in online degrees and certificate programs, allowing students to earn their degrees while eliminating distance and time scheduling challenges. The same professors who deliver on-campus classes organize and teach the online set of coursework.
The university offers different online certificate programs, as well as undergraduate and graduate degree programs in nine areas of study, such as engineering, environmental and occupational health, liberal arts, emergency management, hospitality management, nursing, healthcare administration, public policy and leadership, and education. Distance learners must take into consideration that program availability may differ by state. All online classes are in an asynchronous format, allowing students to progress their studies according to their schedules.
Similar to other colleges and universities in the state, UNLV has a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science Studies, where students understand how various social science disciplines influence and enhance knowledge, raise and answer probing questions, as well as deal with theories within the specific fields. Students must have 120-credit hours to earn this degree successfully.
Despite non-resident students at UNLV paying an increased tuition fee, out-of-state students taking online classes can be eligible for a tuition discount.
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- GPA Requirements
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School Transcripts
- ACT, or SAT Test Scores
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Great Basin College
Great Basin College is one of the top providers of higher education around Nevada. Formerly known as Elko Community College, the school has boasted more than a dozen satellite campuses and facilities across Nevada. GBC has seven entirely online bachelor’s degrees in the arts, applied sciences, and sciences programs. Some of the available programs include land surveying, RN-to-BSN track, social science, English, management, graphic communication, and digital information technology. Aside from the bachelor’s degree programs, GBC offers 19 associate degree programs in different areas of study. Great Basin College integrates Canvas platform as its primary learning content management system, allowing students to access courses, assignments, paperwork, and other learning materials online.
Program length and duration, as well as admission requirements, differ per degree program. One of the unique programs offered by GBC includes Bachelor of Applied Science in Land Surveying/Geomatics, primarily implemented in response to the growing need for licensed professional surveyors in Nevada. Students must have 120-credit hours for the completion of this program. Also, they offer courses in applied accounting and finance; human resource management; foundations of management theory and practice; general physics; and organizational behavior and interpersonal behavior among other unique featured courses.
Online programs do not require on-campus attendance requirements; however, the nursing program requires on-site practicum experiences. Although admission requirements differ on the distance learner’s degree program, the majority of the programs offer rolling admissions that enable students to apply at their convenience. The school practices open admission policy for several programs; they do not require a specific GPA or test score requirements for admission.
GBC provides generous transfer of credits, evaluating transcripts if transfer students have already logged their applications and choose a major. Out-of-state students taking online courses pay an additional amount on the per-credit tuition.
Location: Elko, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School Transcripts or GED Requirements
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Nevada-Reno
University of Nevada-Reno is formerly known as the State University of Nevada and was initially founded in Elko. Until 1965, the university was the only four-year institution around Nevada. Currently, it employs more than 900 faculty members and enrolls about 18,000 full-time students each year. There are an estimated 22,000 students that enroll in at least one online course at the university annually, and the university has more than 200 online classes. Prospective students at the master’s degree level can take advantage of the university’s programs in social work, education, behavior analytic psychology, justice management, business administration, and public health. Also, UNR offers an online doctorate of nursing practice.
The majority of online programs at UNR offer multiple start dates throughout the academic year, providing students with added flexibility. While the UNR is currently in progress with seeking approval to offer its online courses in all states, the university encourages non-resident students to consult with the distance learning office before enrolling to evaluate the eligibility of courses to any licensure or certification they plan to pursue in their home states.
Popular degree programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Business provides an option for distance learners who have personal and professional obligations in scheduling coursework by allowing them to complete major-related coursework more flexibly and conveniently. Core requirements include supply chain management, information systems, international business, diversity & equity, finance, and writing, among other featured upper-division courses. Students need 120-credit hours to graduate.
Similar to other online academic institutions in Nevada, UNR has higher tuition rates for out-of-state students. On the other hand, residents of neighboring states pursuing undergraduate-level coursework may be qualified for discounted tuition rates through the Western Undergraduate Exchange.
Admission requirements differ depending on the degree program, but UNR’s graduate programs typically require minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75, GRE or GMAT test scores, statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and resume or CV. Also, a non-refundable application fee of $60 is required.
Location: Reno, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School Transcripts or GED
- GPA Requirement
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
College of Southern Nevada
College of Southern Nevada was established in 1971 and was formerly known as the Clark County Community College. Considered as the most significant public college in Nevada, the school has numerous additional learning centers, including one for active military personnel at Niels Air Force Base. Among other online academic institutions in Nevada, the school has a reputation for being one of the most flexible. Most of the students attend class part-time, and all online courses are in an asynchronous learning format without any set meeting times. CSN’s online offerings include four certificate programs and 21 associate degree programs.
Distance learners can select to pursue several fields of interest, including psychology, business management, world languages, early childhood education, computing and IT, and education. Distance learners receive ample support, including access to an online library, free online tutoring, and writing centers.
One of the unique programs offered by CSN includes an Associate of Applied Science in Casino Management, designed to provide students with the opportunity to begin a professional endeavor in the casino and gaming industry. Students will earn a strong foundational background in gaming regulations, casino games, gaming law and supervision, and marketing. This 62-credit hour program receives accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration. Core requirements include casino customer service; casino floor supervision; introduction to casino marketing; race and sportsbook management; and human resources management in the hospitality industry among other courses.
The school adheres to an open-door policy of enrolling anyone seeking post-secondary education. In-state students pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students, although eligible non-residents of specific states can enjoy tuition discounts through the Western Undergraduate Exchange program or the CSN’s Good Neighbor program.
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- High School Diploma or GED Requirement
- Official High School Transcript of Records
- Official Transcript of Records from previously attended college or university
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Sierra Nevada College
Sierra Nevada College is a private, not-for-profit liberal arts academic institution that enrolls more than 600 undergraduates and 500 post-graduates. Located in the Sierra Mountains, the campus location allows for unique programs in resort management and ski business. The school provides traditional programs in education, environmental science, fine arts, and humanities. One of the prominent highlights of distance education in SNC is the 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio to ensure a customized and extensive learning experience.
Established in 1969, SNC has been recognized as one of the top accredited online colleges in the state. The school offers distance learners two bachelor’s degree programs in psychology and global business management and two graduate programs in education featuring concentrations in administration or English language acquisition and development. Professors deliver online classes in six-week modules, and distance learners only need to take one or two courses at a time.
SNC accept first-time first-year students and transfer of students. Prospective distance learners interested in transferring can send in their transcript of records for a credit evaluation without submission of an official application. In-state and out-of-state distance learners pay a reduced flat-rate tuition per-credit, in addition to a flat fee per semester. Students can submit applications on a rolling admission basis throughout the academic year. Applicants typically receive an acceptance decision within two weeks.
SNC’s graduate degree programs have start dates in January, March, May, August, and October to provide maximum flexibility for working students. Prospective students for undergraduate degree programs do not pay for application fees; however, a $50 application fee applies to graduate students.
Location: Incline Village, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission
- GPA of 2.6 or higher
- SAT or ACT Test Scores
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School of Transcripts or GED Certificate
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Some schools in Nevada offer flat-rate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students, but the majority of these institutions offer lower tuition expenses for their resident students and higher costs for those living outside Nevada. Non-resident students enrolled in one of the online colleges or universities in Nevada may qualify for special tuition discounts through the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. This association allows resource-sharing among western higher education institutions since 1953. Also, the association distributes around $9,000 per year in tuition discounts to students and serves 16 western states, including Oregon, Alaska, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona.
WICHE’s Western Undergraduate Exchange makes sure that out-of-state students do not pay more than 150% of in-state school’s tuition at participating institutions. Eligible students must have residency status in a WICHE member state.
The state’s flagship university, the University of Nevada- Reno charges in-state students $7,764 for tuition and $22,236 for out-of-state students. Some academic institutions participate in initiatives to reduce the cost of out-of-state tuition. Non-resident students may explore a variety of financial aid opportunities and resources. The best online colleges and universities in Nevada provide students with ample financial aid opportunities, including aid advisers, to help them find their options. Typically, financial aid can help cover the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition fees, assisting in making it possible for out-of-state distance learners to attend online education in Nevada.
METHODOLOGY
By coming up with the 5 Best Value Online Schools in Nevada, it is our goal to help prospective students find the best online academic institution that not only fits best their requirements for obtaining a degree but also features inexpensive tuition and fees. These online schools also present students with opportunities for financial aid.
Nevada State College
Nevada State College is a public college that is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. It is considered Nevada’s first state college established in 2002. The school provides numerous undergraduate and graduate degree programs in different areas of study, including education, liberal arts & sciences, nursing, and interdisciplinary studies.
NSC’s only online offering is the RN to BSN, designed to prepare students to better support the patient, societies, communities, and families through a caring-healing procedure. The program includes the application of both art and science in nursing. The online curriculum consists of 12 courses totaling 36-credit hours, including an online practice experience for program synthesis. There is no need for face-to-face clinical attendance. Students take courses in holistic health assessment, biostatistics for nursing, scholarly inquiry for nursing, conceptual bases of nursing, and care of aging populations among other featured courses.
Students can complete this degree in as few as 12 months. In-state students pay $7,300, while out-of-state students pay $8,900. The school is committed to delivering outstanding and affordable education. Online RN-to-BSN students are eligible to receive financial aid opportunities.
Location: Henderson, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission
- Associate Degree or Diploma from an accredited nursing program
- GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Must have RN License within seven weeks of acceptance
- Government-issued Identification
- Current, unencumbered RN License
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
College of Southern Nevada
College of Southern Nevada is not only considered the largest public college in Nevada but also CSN is known to have one of the most affordable tuition fees around the state. Students residing in Nevada pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students. However, there are some non-residents eligible to receive tuition discounts through the Western Undergraduate Exchange, and Good Neighbor programs.
Distance learners from Nevada pay a total amount of $19,151, while out-of-state students pay $26,064 for full-time students with 13-credit hours per semester basis. Also, students under the Good Neighbor program pay $20,691, while students under the Western Undergraduate Exchange program pay $20,435.
CSN provides several financial aid opportunities, including academic scholarships, work-study programs, CSN scholarships, reentry programs, grants, and loans. The school has a dedicated team of financial aid staff readily available to help students explore through the financial aid procedures.
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- High School Diploma or GED Requirement
- Official High School Transcript of Records
- Official Transcript of Records from previously attended college or university
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Great Basin College
Great Basin College is a small academic institution that is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Established in 1967, it acted as a junior college that primarily offered certificate programs, as well as associate degree programs. Unlike other academic institutions that charge one tuition rate, the school charges separate rates for lower-level and upper-level classes.
The cost of upper-level courses cost around $4,500 per year. For non-residents, the cost of lower-level courses is approximately $9,500 per year. Students who enroll in upper-level courses will have to pay close to $11,000 per year. While the college does offer housing opportunities for students, paying for room and board can add close to $7,000 to your annual costs. Also, the college offers discounted rates through its Western Exchange and Good Neighbor programs.
Accessing the financial aid page of the Great Basin College website will help students apply for financial aid programs like scholarships that are available from the city and grants from specific organizations. Students may also fill out the FAFSA to see if they qualify for federal loans and grants. Great Basin College will notify them via email when it processes their financial aid. Students can then go online, view their letter, and accept that package. Great Basin College also has some job opportunities available for undergraduates who require extra financial help.
Location: Elko, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School Transcripts or GED Requirements
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
University of Nevada-Las Vegas is a public institution founded in 1957. It has a total undergraduate population of 25,279 utilizing a semester-based academic calendar. The University of Nevada-Las Vegas students live, work and play in one of the most commonly visited destinations in the U.S. They explore more than 250 student organizations, participate in the school’s large community of fraternities and sororities or be part of UNLV Rebels athletic teams that compete in the NCAA Division, Mountain West Conference. Also, the university offers research opportunities through its academic hubs. These include the Center for Information and Communication Technology, the Arnold Shaw Popular Music Research Center, and the Center for Gaming Research.
In-state tuition and fees amount to $7,308, while out-of-state tuition and fees amount to $21,774. 61% of full-time undergraduate students receive some form of need-based financial aid. The average need-based scholarship or grant award is $6,697.
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- GPA Requirements
- Official Transcript of Records
- Official High School Transcripts
- ACT or SAT Test Scores
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Touro University Nevada
Touro University Nevada is a private, not-for-profit, academic institution that is a part of The Touro College and University System. It was created to help address critical needs in healthcare and education, as well as a resource for community service in Nevada.
The university offers an RN-to-BSN program, designed to provide the best support for its students and provide unique learning opportunities for students’ nursing careers. Students take courses in nursing health assessment and pharmacology; health policy & leadership in nursing; health delivery, information management, and technology in nursing; transition to professional practice; and research and scholarly inquiry for evidence-based practice in Nevada, among other unique courses for the nursing program. The RN-BSN online degree program receives accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Students can complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as one year.
TUN offers competitive tuition rates that will make students’ nursing dreams achievable. Students pay $3,350 in total institutional expenses per trimester. Tuition for the per-credit basis is at $275 per credit hour for the RN-to-BSN program. Also, the university offers several financial aid opportunities, and payment plans to assist students in financing their cost of education and tuition expenses.
Location: Henderson, Nevada
Admission Requirements:
- Online Application for Admission
- Diploma or Associate’s Degree in Nursing
- Active RN License
- Official Transcript of Records
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
