University Of Nevada, Reno
Reno, United States
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, United States
Founded
1874
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
21,000+
Acceptance Rate
85%
University of Nevada, Reno: Nevada's Flagship Land-Grant Institution
University of Nevada, Reno: Nevada's Flagship Land-Grant Institution
Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is Nevada's land-grant institution established under the Morrill Act of 1862. Today, it is recognized as a Carnegie R1 research university and the state's flagship institution, offering more than 560 majors, minors, graduate, and certificate programs to a diverse student body of over 21,000.
Originally established in Elko as a small preparatory school with just seven students, the university relocated to Reno in 1885 and has since grown into a comprehensive research institution. The campus spans 290 acres just north of downtown Reno, featuring a blend of historic buildings dating back over a century and modern state-of-the-art facilities, including the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center and the E. L. Wiegand Fitness Center.
UNR is known for its very high research activity, particularly in civil engineering, earthquake and large-scale structures testing, and environmental science. The university also operates the Wayne L. Prim Campus at Lake Tahoe, extending its academic reach to one of America's most iconic alpine settings and offering unique interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
Key Milestones
- 1874: Founded as the State University of Nevada in Elko with seven students under the Morrill Land-Grant Act.
- 1885: University relocated from Elko to Reno; Morrill Hall, the first campus building, was dedicated in 1886.
- 1969: Renamed to University of Nevada, Reno to distinguish from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
- 2022: Acquired Sierra Nevada University assets to create the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe campus.
Academic Colleges and Schools at UNR
Academic Colleges and Schools at UNR
The University of Nevada, Reno consists of eight colleges and nine schools, providing comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across a wide range of disciplines. With over 560 academic offerings, students can pursue specialized study while benefiting from interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on research opportunities alongside expert faculty.
College of Engineering
Known for its strength in civil and environmental engineering, earthquake research, and newly ranked aerospace and industrial engineering programs. The college offers 12 graduate degrees and cutting-edge research facilities.
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
College of Sciences
Offers programs spanning biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology, and earth sciences, with strong research output and graduate rankings in earth sciences and clinical psychology.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
College of Business
Provides undergraduate and graduate education in business administration, accounting, economics, and finance, preparing students for careers in a dynamic global economy.
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Economics
College of Liberal Arts
Encompasses the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts, including the Reynolds School of Journalism, which has produced six Pulitzer Prize winners among its graduates.
- Political Science
- Journalism
- English
College of Education and Human Development
Ranked among the top graduate education schools nationally by U.S. News, offering programs in teaching, counseling, educational leadership, and human development.
- Elementary Education
- Counseling and Educational Psychology
- Educational Leadership
College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources
Rooted in the university's land-grant mission, this college focuses on agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, and biotechnology, with statewide extension programs serving Nevada communities.
- Agriculture
- Nutrition
- Natural Resources and Environmental Science
Admission Requirements for University of Nevada, Reno
Admission Requirements for University of Nevada, Reno
Undergraduate Admissions
- High School GPA3.0 weighted GPA in academic core courses required
- Standardized TestsTest-optional; SAT/ACT not required for admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application or university application accepted
- High School DiplomaRequired; completion of college-preparatory program
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo required for international students
Graduate Admissions
- Bachelor's DegreeAccredited bachelor's degree required
- Minimum GPATypically 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; varies by program
- Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT may be required depending on program
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Additional MaterialsStatement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and CV may be required
Submit your application by this date for early consideration and priority scholarship review.
Recommended deadline for full scholarship consideration for incoming freshmen.
Final deadline for undergraduate applications for the fall semester.
Graduate application deadlines differ by program; check with your department for specific dates.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Nevada, Reno offers competitive tuition rates that are lower than the national average for R1 research universities. Financial aid, scholarships, and the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program help make a UNR education accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
| Cost Category | In-State (Resident) | Out-of-State (Non-Resident) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | USD 8,655 | USD 27,288 |
| Mandatory Fees | USD 1,643 | USD 1,643 |
| Room and Board | USD 15,010 | USD 15,010 |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,200 | USD 1,200 |
| Total | USD 26,508 | USD 45,141 |
Nevada Freshman Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships available to incoming freshmen based on academic achievement, including GPA and test scores. The university offers tiered awards that can significantly reduce tuition costs.
- Award Amount: Varies; contact the Office of Financial Aid
- Eligibility: Incoming freshmen with strong academic records
- Renewable: Yes, with GPA maintenance requirements
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
Students from participating western states can attend UNR at a reduced tuition rate of 150% of in-state tuition, offering significant savings compared to standard out-of-state rates.
- Tuition Rate: 150% of in-state tuition
- Eligibility: Residents of participating WICHE states
- Application: Automatically considered upon admission
Campus and Facilities at University of Nevada, Reno
Campus and Facilities at University of Nevada, Reno
Spanning 290 acres just north of downtown Reno, the UNR campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities. From the tree-lined Quad anchored by 19th-century Morrill Hall to state-of-the-art research labs and recreation centers, the campus provides an inspiring environment for learning and discovery.
The tree-lined Quad, modeled after Thomas Jefferson's design at the University of Virginia, is the heart of campus life and home to some of UNR's oldest buildings.
The main library and knowledge hub features modern study spaces, digital resources, special collections, and the Basque Library, serving as a center for academic research.
This 108,000-square-foot fitness center opened in 2017 and offers students a comprehensive range of exercise equipment, courts, and wellness programs.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
UNR provides a variety of residential options including traditional residence halls and apartment-style living, with Great Basin Hall being the newest residential community opened in 2018.
- Traditional residence halls and suites
- Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen
- Living-learning communities available
Dining Options
The university offers multiple dining venues across campus, with flexible meal plans designed to accommodate various dietary needs and schedules.
- Multiple dining halls and food courts
- Flexible meal plan options
- Coffee shops and grab-and-go locations
Student Life at University of Nevada, Reno
Student Life at University of Nevada, Reno
Student life at UNR is vibrant and diverse, with more than 250 student organizations, active student government, and a strong sense of Wolf Pack community. Located minutes from world-class outdoor recreation at Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada, students enjoy a unique balance of academic engagement and adventure.
Reno, Nevada: The Biggest Little City in the World
Reno, Nevada: The Biggest Little City in the World
Life in Reno-Tahoe
Reno is a vibrant, mid-sized city nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering a unique combination of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, proximity to Lake Tahoe, and a growing technology and innovation economy, Reno provides an exceptional setting for university life.
Outdoor Recreation
Lake Tahoe is just 45 minutes from campus, offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and water sports year-round.
Growing Tech Hub
Reno's economy is rapidly diversifying with major companies in technology, logistics, and advanced manufacturing establishing operations in the region.
Arts and Culture
The city features a thriving arts scene with galleries, theaters, the annual Burning Man community, and the Nevada Museum of Art.
Transportation
Reno-Tahoe International Airport provides convenient air access, and the city offers public transit options connecting campus to downtown and surrounding areas.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Top Employers of UNR Graduates
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
Provides visa and immigration guidance, orientation programs, cultural adjustment support, and ongoing advising for international students throughout their time at UNR.
Offers English language preparation programs for international students who need to strengthen their English proficiency before or during their academic studies.
UNR partners with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), offering programs in over 50 locations across 27 countries for students of all majors.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Nevada, Reno: Worldwide Rankings
University of Nevada, Reno: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Nevada, Reno has steadily improved its standing in major national and international rankings, reflecting its growing reputation as a research institution. In the 2026 U.S. News rankings, UNR climbed 12 spots to No. 192 among national universities, and it holds the No. 1 position in Niche's Best Colleges in Nevada list.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering | U.S. News Graduate Rankings | #61 |
| Earth Sciences | U.S. News Graduate Rankings | #59 |
| Environmental Engineering | U.S. News Graduate Rankings | #65 |
| Online Nursing Programs | U.S. News Online Rankings | #5 |
Features
R1 Doctoral Research University\n\nLand-grant institution since 1874\n\nOver 560 degree programs\n\nStrong focus on innovation & community\n\nDiverse student body & over 250 clubs\n\nNCAA Division I Wolf Pack athletics
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - May
Location
1664 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89557
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