University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV, USA

Reviews

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Adam from Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
28 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes offer an incredible amount of insight and new information. Classes tend to start off a little slow in my experience, but when they did get going they got going quickly and I learned a lot in short amounts of time.

In addition, classes don't have lazy setups; that is, professors go into detail on each subject and don't simply list things for you to write down and memorize for the exams. Instead, they will actually take the time to explain and talk about each bit of content that comes up. Most professors also dedicate specific periods of class just for discussion about either the current or previous day's content. This allows for better material retention, especially after a semester ends when many students tend to forget things that during the semester they had only memorized.
Am enjoying being here
I enjoy my time at UNLV. The campus is well-organized. But one of the things I really appreciate which others may take for granted, is the presence of the many plants and trees throughout the campus.

In my own opinion, they serve two purposes. First, they serve to keep students cool in the shade; that's very important as Las Vegas is well known for its burning heat (which was a consideration for me when deciding whether to attend UNLV, though not a large enough consideration to keep me from deciding to study there).

Next, they serve to remove the visual blandness that saps students' energy as they walk the pathways at many other colleges out there.

In addition to all of that, courses are intriguing and stimulating, so I'm generally always looking forward to the next day of school.
Bang for the buck
Overall, UNLV gives you a lot of benefits for the cost. It's not as cheap as some other schools out there, but sometimes one gets what one pays for.

Unfortunately, with the recent budget cuts prices have risen, and it can certainly be felt as each dollar you pay gets you less distance in your strides towards paying tuition. Even with the increases though, I found the tuition cost to be manageable.

Textbooks are a bit of a different story. The UNLV bookstore charges quite a lot, so it would probably be a good idea to buy your textbooks at a different store online. Unfortunately, however, many UNLV courses use custom editions of certain books with content additions and removals, which can be hard to find. Therefore in those cases you need to either get lucky on eBay or, sadly, pay full price at the bookstore.
Tips for prospective students
Be ready to think as you learn; that is, don't come to UNLV expecting to have to just sit down and take notes on powerpoint presentations as the professor simply reads off each item on the list and then sends you on your way after an hour and fifteen happens to go by.

UNLV courses tend to favor critical thinking; that is, one must actually think and make connections about what's being taught. Notes are still important, but you'll be taking notes on the professors' explanations just as much as anything else. Thus, being able to type dictation is very helpful.
Great for these types of students
Great for academically oriented students; that is, students looking to go into research or professional fields. The music department is also very well put together and staffed (known from personal experience). And finally, the school is great for students who wish to participate in sports as UNLV is pretty well known for sports, especially basketball.

Joan from Henderson, NV

a current student here
24 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Everyone knows college isn't gonna be easy, its a challenge. There are going to be teachers that only go over the general information in the lecture, leaving it up to you to learn the concepts through the book. But reading the book is required in all classes. There will also be teachers that go more in depth in the lectures, giving you a full understanding of the material before you study on your own. But all courses will offer a study group or tutoring, which is helpful when you don't get anything. Some teachers may have really thick accents, but that will just be another obstacle to overcome. So before you decide on your schedule, I recommend you look up the professor on ratemyprofessor.com, the reviews are usually straight on. Overall, you will learn a lot here, but you're going to have to put the time and effort in.
Am enjoying being here
There are many events, football games, Greek life, clubs and programs you can be involved in at UNLV. At the beginning of each semester UNLV holds a community fair for a week, where different organizations, clubs, fraternities and sororities set up tables inviting students to join. Everyone is very welcoming and when you find a club that's perfect for you, your experience at UNLV will increase as well. There may be different views on fraternity and sorority life, but its not what most people think. There are parties but they also hold charity events, do volunteer work, and have little competitions against each other. Joining a fraternities or sororities will help you make connections with people, can help you get a job, and even get guidance from graduate students. At UNLV, I would say I've had a blast here. From joining various clubs, going to football games and meeting new people. It's a very friendly environment, I guarantee you'll have a great college experience. Don't let not being 21 bring you down, there are more things to do here.
Bang for the buck
I know a lot of people who went out of state for schools, and if you are a in state student, going to UNLV should be your number one choice. There are a variety of students from all over the country and even some students from other countries. For out of state students, I know that out of other colleges, UNLV has the best tuition rates by far. Though there have been a few budget cuts as a result of the current economy.
Tips for prospective students
UNLV is a really good school. There are great teachers, some may be graduate students so they know what you are going through and may be even more helpful than professors. I would recommend this school to anyone.
Great for these types of students
UNLV is known for being mostly a business school, specializing in hotel administration. After all, there are thousands of hotels in Las Vegas, this would be the best place to learn about hotel management. However, UNLV does have good programs in the health sciences college, education college and sciences college.

Carey from Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
UNLV is full of intelligent professors who are eager to teach to those than are eager to learn. However, what I have noticed is many classes base their tests on assigned readings, and that actual lectures in class are meant to reinforce the material, rather than initially teach you. This was difficult to adjust to at first, but now that I know what to expect, my future semesters will be much better.
Am enjoying being here
The campus is spacious, and the people are friendly! There are always events and things for you to do before, in between and after classes. The weather is generally lovely in Las Vegas, and I have taken a liking to sitting and studying in the numerous fields around campus. The fresh air and the warm sun really allow me to relax and focus on what ever I am studying for.
Bang for the buck
The tuition is quite reasonable, at least compared to some of the other schools I was contemplating. I've enjoyed nearly all of my classes this past semester, and I am looking forward to my upcoming semester as well.

The textbooks are quite expensive, so my suggestion to any newcomers is to wait before purchasing books, because some classes don't actually ever require the readings. In fact, my most expensive book, (that retailed for $200!) was one that I didn't even use! Luckily I rented it for the more affordable $70, but it would have been nice to have saved the money if I had known prior to!
Tips for prospective students
UNLV is whatever you make it. If you want to create those fun memories that you always hear alumni talk about, you have to make it happen for yourself. Get involved, whether it be through sororities or fraternities, clubs, or performing arts or sports. If you spend it just doing your academics, (which is how I spent a good portion of my first semester) you will find that college isn't really as fun as you may have expected.
Great for these types of students
Outgoing and friendly people will do very well! People who are capable of going out and having a good time, occasionally till the wee hours of the morning, and still having the drive to study hard and get good grades will have a great time!

That is not to say that if you are shy you are not compatible with UNLV!! In fact, quite the opposite! Shy personalities have the opportunity to really thrive! Go in with a positive attitude, go to the games, get involved and have a good time! If you develop an appreciation for your school, you will want to do well academically because you'll want to continue to attend!

Richard from Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors I have taken really have a passion for what they teach. Of course you'll run into the professors the student body isn't fond of but thats a given at any campus. My experience with student teachers has also been a good one. The student teachers really relate to the students and also strive to be successful with their teaching.
Am enjoying being here
UNLV takes alot of flack from local high school students because everyone wants the college experience, but this school has pleasantly surprised me. Besides the inevitable budgets cuts that a down economy has put upon the school, the programs here are pretty good. The Law school is 78th in the nation and the Hotel Administration program is one of the best in the world. The city itself is a great place to live. Besides the nightlife (when you turn 21), Runnin Rebel Basketball and other sports are always fun to go see, as well as the plethora of concert venues that are just down the street.
Bang for the buck
For the amount I'm learning and the amount I'm paying I do think I'm getting the bang for my buck. With a great base of professors and so many on campus facilities to help succeed (counselors, tutoring, writing center) I feel that my tuition is not being wasted.
Tips for prospective students
Don't slack off too much. I mean, it is college and with a lower quantity but higher quality of assignments its easy to forget and get wrapped up in other things besides school. The city has a lot to offer as means of entertainment and the campus has just as much to offer in helping you through your courses.
Great for these types of students
UNLV is mainly a commuter school with a larger population from the Las Vegas area but its not limited to local kids. Future Law students may look into UNLV and the rising Boyd School of Law. As mentioned students looking into Hotel Management I definitely recommend UNLV's world renowned program. The history department is also currently rising up and is developing a close association with the Brookings Institute, a Washington think tank. The Business school is AACSB accredited and it is also one of the only schools in the world thats has a dual accreditation for the college and specialized fields of accounting.

Aubrey from Henderson, NV

accepted here and planning to attend soon
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
I am already enrolled at UNLV to begin my first semester in the Spring of 2011. I have many friends who attended UNLV for the Fall semester & from what I have heard, the classes are packed full of learning experiences. They require much work, focus & concentration. The professors are very knowledgeable on the subjects which they teach, & they are willing help if you get lost. Overall, students at UNLV undoubtedly learn a lot in their time spent at the university.
Will enjoy being here
I have been to the campus several times for appointment & such. The students were all very nice, as I had to stop & ask for directions several times. The staff was very helpful & cooperative. The campus itself is beautiful, & the student union is awesome, as is the library.
Bang for the buck
UNLV is not the cheapest school around, but I think that for it's price, you get a lot. As I said before, the staff is very helpful & cooperative. Everyone at UNLV is willing to help you with whatever you need. As an in-state student not living on campus, I think my tuition rates are great. Out-of-state is pretty expensive, but that's how it is a most universities. UNLV is worth the expense & I am sure that I will be glad I decided to go here.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure that you enroll on myUNLV as soon as possible. Otherwise, you'll end up on a wait list for a class which you really need. Also, make sure you take placement tests for subjects in which they are available, or else you will end up in a class that is too easy or too hard for you.
Great for these types of students
Hard work is required at UNLV. Most professors assign a lot of homework, so you need to have your priorities straight & stay focused in order to succeed. The Lied library is a great place to go in order to study. It's usually pretty busy, so I would advise finding your own quiet spot within the library in order to concentrate.

Annabel from Chicago, IL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This is my first year at UNLV as a transfer student and it has been the best university experience for me. Every professor has provided me with rigorous, yet effective coursework that benefits me and is teaching me about my major. Take a tour here and you'll fall in love just like I did.
Tips for prospective students
Come to class and get the best out of the education (you are paying for it). There are so many resources here to get hands on experience for your future and take advantage of it. Not every school has an environment like this.
Academic Rigor
Many of my classes have been hands on and that's the type of learning that I am best at. A professor can lecture all day, but if I have no reference point to what you are saying, then I'm never going to really learn what you're trying to tell me.
I have been academically challenged in new ways, but the professors are always willing to help.
Dorm Life
I live off-campus so I can't accurately comment on this. From what I have heard, the dorms are okay but could improve.
Food and Dining
For commuter students, or those who don't have a meal plan - UNLV campus has the best food. The student union basically houses a mall food court with Panda Express, Starbucks, Subway, etc. We are also surrounded by other amazing restaurants that will fulfill any craving. Thai, Chinese, American, Italian, Hawaiian, literally everything. Alot of places around here also offer student discounts.
Great for these types of students
Anyone is prefers suburban areas over city. While Vegas is considered a city, it definitely has a more Suburban feel due to open areas and distances between buildings. I'm from Chicago and this a whole new change.
Greek Life
Greek life is EVERYTHING here. If you're not in a fraternity/sorority you are one of the rare few.
Campus Safety
There are alarms everywhere and I haven't had an issue with feeling unsafe on campus.

Jenny from Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I have a love-hate relationship with UNLV as I pretty much do with anything. The good definitely outweighs the bad though. It's virtually impossible to sum up my experience at UNLV in only three sentences!
Tips for prospective students
When choosing professors, go for the elder ones. I don't mean any offense or am discriminating. I just found it more challenging from professors who have more experience in their field. TA's (teaching assistants) are students getting their master's so they have their academic life to worry about as well. Also, take advantage of all the free events they hold because they almost always give out free stuff too. The campus is pretty huge so you should always have someone with you as well, especially during the night. And always get to class early if you're parking! The parking garage will always fill up within 15-20 minutes of class starting. It saved me from being late and always getting the seat I wanted in class!
Academic Rigor
UNLV brings in a diversity of professors with all different kinds of backgrounds. Professors have been immersed into their field and provide exceptional knowledge from their experiences. Those particular kinds of professors will challenge you to do your best.
Dorm Life
From what I can see, the dorm life is up to par. I haven't heard a single bad thing about it. Even friends who are born and raised here took a year out of their free rent at their parents house to living in the dorms. I'm guessing it was the food?
Food and Dining
There are so many places to choose from along Maryland Parkway. There's a mall nearby and so many plazas filled with so many different kinds of restaurants. Authentic Mexican, Japanese, Korean, and Greek are just to name a few!
What to do for fun
Two words: the Strip. No, I'm kidding. There's so many options for fun. UNLV holds free events for students like Rebel's After Dark, Movies that Matter, gallery openings, job fairs, and more. There's activities and classes at the Student Wellness & Recreation Center and there are clubs you can join as well. Just walking around is pretty fun because the architecture is amazing.
Bang for the buck
Never buy anything on campus! There's always online and stores all over Vegas to get a better deal. But definitely take advantage of the free stuff they give you at their free events.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
There's a garden between the WRI building and the Marjorie Barrick Museum. It's beautiful, but if you're allergic to pollen or bees, I suggest you avoid this area at all costs. Traditions include annual events and sports! UNLV always keeps you updated somehow so you won't ever miss out.
Great for these types of students
Las Vegas is extremely diverse and there is always something for everyone. Clubs, activities, sports, and events are all made to fit to your needs and interests.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many opportunities to join clubs and activities all over the campus. There's a club for everybody! Whether it's your scholarly merit or your heritage, there is a place you will enjoy yourself and feel welcomed. The SWRC (Student Wellness & Recreation Center) has many trips out to Red Rock and nearby locations for various outdoor activities. Most of them cost money, but there are quite a few free classes that are held at the SWRC like cycling, yoga, etc.
Greek Life
Sororities and fraternities hold many events throughout the academic school year. They are always taking up room in front of the Student Union with their big booths and signs. I've personally never attended and avoided them at all costs because it gets pretty busy.
Campus Safety
There's emergency call boxes everywhere on campus and cops that still ride horses. The police are constantly staying in touch with students through email, keeping them updated and aware. The campus is almost always busy, but there are those areas deep into the campus that should be avoided at night because there are no lights and drunk bums tend to sneak onto campus, but are almost always caught.

Monica from North Las Vegas, NV

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The learning experience is quite beneficial, even though many would think being an in-state student doesn't give anyone an advantage. I would have to disagree with many who think that way. I can say that my entrance into UNLV was a pleasant surprise because I have learned more than what I initially expected. The professors have all been extremely motivated to teach and provide an enjoyable learning environment. So far as a sophomore at UNLV I am quite pleased with the learning that I have experienced thus far.
Am enjoying being here
UNLV is very practical and has provided me with the proper learning experience. It has also enabled me to keep a well functioning job at the university. The only criticism that I do have to say on this topic is that because many do not live on campus, many are not as involved with campus events. I for one would like to become more involved with on-campus activities, such as clubs or other organizations. You have to make your college experience what you want it to be.
Bang for the buck
The price of the university is extremely efficient, especially if you are an in-state student. Not only does the Millenium Scholarship cover a good portion of tuition, but if you add that with other scholarships you can go without paying out of pocket. Students do get their money's worth and in my opinion more because of these price benefits.
Tips for prospective students
The biggest insight tip that I have for prospective students is to become involved on campus. That is the key to having an enjoyable college experience. As far as academics go, form study sessions and use all of the resources the Academic Success Center on campus offers. Professors are also there to help, although they may seem intimidating at times, they're probably the best resource you can have. Stay on top of your game and you'll be fine.
Great for these types of students
UNLV is great for all types of students, jocks, international students, etc. Diversity is definitely shown on campus, there are all types of students attending this university. Like any other place, some departments do have more funding then others but everyone just has to work with what they are offered.

Louis from Chicago, IL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Just meeting new people and getting to know a different world is a huge learning experience. The curriculum of my classes are really challenging.
Am enjoying being here
Not much to do in Las Vegas unless you are 21 and have money and a car!
Tips for prospective students
Don't get so wrapped up on being 21 in Las Vegas. Take your time and enjoy yourself while you're still under 21. Have fun and stay out of trouble.
Great for these types of students
If you're in the Fine Arts college, be patient with the campus, you will soon get to do what you want; but be patient because this is a growing Fine Arts department. My advice is to save up your money as much as you can so that you may buy your own equipment because most of the equipment provided by the school is only for school work. If you want to independently do your work, have your own equipment.

Samantha from Henderson, NV

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I learned more than I expected I would in my first year at UNLV. Not just from the courses I took but also the events held on campus. The Professors all were enthusiastic about the subjects they taught and applied what they were teaching to everyday life. They are willing to talk one-on-one after class and help you out when needed. The classes vary in size, which was nice for the different types of learning environments. The events on campus are what pushed the envelope for my learning. Many of the ones I attended raised awareness for Homelessness, Racial Minorities, Women’s rights, Gay rights, Disabled, and other minorities.
Am enjoying being here
To be honest I wasn't expecting that much from going to UNLV. I thought I was just going to get my degree and to be done with it. Though, it ended up being something completely different. The campus seems to always have something to do between classes. From lying out on the grassy areas, sitting in the WHI building where there is this little waterfall, hanging out in the SU, or at the coffee bean. If you are wanting to get off campus there is the strip near by. As for activities on campus there a lot of clubs to get involved with and if you aren't looking to join a club, there are always events going on. Two of which I absolutely loved where Take Back the Night and Homelessness Week.
Bang for the buck
For those students who are already living in the Las Vegas area UNLV is worth the price tag (And it is for those who aren't in the area). It is a bit more expensive than CSN or Nevada State but at the same time you are getting more out of UNLV. With a larger campus, faculty, classes, students, and social events. The cost is cut down by a lot if you are planning to not live on campus, which if you are looking to go out of state will dramatically increase how much you are paying. When it comes to the text books you can usually get by with finding used textbooks online. I've gotten by with borrowing books from friends who have already taken the class. And you can always find people who are looking to sell theirs for cheap.
Tips for prospective students
The thing I recommend most is being involved, but that would apply for any where you go. Take part in class and make friends. Having a friend in your class is helpful for when you miss a class or need someone to study with or get help with homework. Take part in events on campus. If you don't want to be in a club, there are always things you can attend. Also, make use of the gym! It's already paid for in your tuition. The gym practically has everything and they also offer a variety of classes to take.
Great for these types of students
For students who want that in between. Where you can have small classes but also larger ones if wanted. Where the campus isn't small, but isn't to overwhelmingly large either. You can be apart of clubs and events, but you don't feel ostracized if you aren't. It's for students who don't want to pay a ridiculously amount of money for a good school that offers a lot.