| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) is a public university in Las Vegas, New Mexico, USA. It was founded in 1893 as New Mexico Normal School and later became Highlands University. NMHU is known for its strong programs in education, social work, business, and sciences, with a focus on serving Hispanic and Native American communities.
Location: Las Vegas, New Mexico
Type: Public university
Founded: 1893
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Student Population: Around 3,000 students
Campus: Main campus in Las Vegas, with regional centers in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, and Farmington
Business Administration
Education
Social Work
Natural Sciences
Fine Arts
Computer Science
Affordable Tuition – Offers competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students.
Diverse Community – Serves a high percentage of Hispanic and Native American students.
Small Class Sizes – Allows for personalized attention from professors.
Strong Research Opportunities – Focuses on environmental and social sciences research.
Beautiful Location – Situated near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering outdoor recreation.
NMHU competes in NCAA Division II as the "Cowboys and Cowgirls." Sports include basketball, football, cross-country, and more. The university also has clubs, student organizations, and cultural events.
College of Arts and Sciences
Biology (Pre-Med, Environmental Science, General Biology)
Chemistry (Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry)
Computer Science
Mathematics
Environmental Geology
Forestry
Physics
Media Arts & Technology
Fine Arts (Painting, Drawing, Photography)
Music
English
History
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology & Anthropology
School of Business, Media, and Technology
Business Administration (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, Entrepreneurship)
Computer & Information Systems
Media Arts & Technology
School of Education
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Early Childhood Multicultural Education
Physical Education
Facundo Valdez School of Social Work
Social Work (BSW – Bachelor of Social Work)
College of Arts and Sciences
Master of Science (MS) in Biology
Master of Science (MS) in Chemistry
Master of Science (MS) in Natural Resources Management
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Media Arts
Master of Arts (MA) in English
Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology
Master of Arts (MA) in Southwest Studies
School of Business, Media, and Technology
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Concentrations: Finance, Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science
School of Education
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)
Specializations: Curriculum & Instruction, Special Education, Educational Leadership
Master of Arts in Counseling
Facundo Valdez School of Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
NMHU does not currently offer Ph.D. programs, but they do have advanced master's programs that prepare students for doctoral studies elsewhere.
NMHU offers several online and hybrid (online + in-person) programs, especially in:
Business Administration (MBA)
Social Work (MSW)
Education (MAEd)
Media Arts
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts and Sciences |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Environmental Geology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Forestry |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Media Arts & Technology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Fine Arts (Painting, Drawing, Photography) |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
English |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
History |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Sociology & Anthropology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Business, Media, and Technology |
|
|
|
Business Administration (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, Entrepreneurship) |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Computer & Information Systems |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Media Arts & Technology |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Education |
|
|
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Early Childhood Multicultural Education |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
Physical Education |
4 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
Facundo Valdez School of Social Work |
|
|
|
Social Work (BSW – Bachelor of Social Work) |
4 years |
$11,988 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts and Sciences |
|
|
|
Master of Science (MS) in Biology |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Chemistry |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Natural Resources Management |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Media Arts |
2-3 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in English |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Southwest Studies |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Business, Media, and Technology |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Education |
|
|
|
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling |
2 years |
$11,988 |
|
|
|
|
|
Facundo Valdez School of Social Work |
|
|
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2 years |
$11,988 |
Affordable Tuition Fees – NMHU offers lower tuition compared to many U.S. universities.
Small Class Sizes – More personalized learning experience with close interaction with professors.
Diverse Student Body – NMHU has a strong Hispanic and Native American presence, along with students from various countries.
STEM & Business Programs – Offers popular programs in Computer Science, Business Administration, Social Work, and Natural Sciences.
Scholarships Available – Some scholarships and assistantships are open to international students.
Safe & Friendly Environment – Located in Las Vegas, New Mexico, a quiet and student-friendly town with easy access to outdoor activities.
Completed Online Application – Apply through the NMHU website.
High School Diploma/Transcripts – Must be officially translated into English.
English Proficiency Test Scores (any one of the following):
TOEFL: 61 iBT (Internet-based)
IELTS: 5.5
Duolingo: 90
PTE Academic: 44
Passport Copy – A valid passport is required.
Financial Proof – Bank statement showing enough funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
Completed Online Application
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript – Must be translated into English.
English Proficiency Test Scores (same as undergraduate requirements).
Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose – Explaining why you want to study at NMHU.
Recommendation Letters – 2 to 3 letters from professors or employers (varies by program).
Resume/CV (for some programs).
GRE/GMAT Scores – Required for some programs (MBA may require GMAT).
1 Choose Your Program
Explore NMHU’s Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs.
Check the entry requirements for your chosen program.
Find Programs Here: N/A
2 Submit an Online Application
Apply through the NMHU Online Application Portal:
Undergraduate Application: Apply Here
Graduate Application: Apply Here
Pay the non-refundable application fee:
Undergraduate: $25 USD
Graduate: $25 USD
3 Submit Required Documents
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Applicants:
Completed Application Form
High School Transcripts/Diploma (Official, translated into English)
English Proficiency Test Scores (any one of the following):
TOEFL: 61 iBT (Internet-based)
IELTS: 5.5
Duolingo: 90
PTE Academic: 44
Copy of Passport
Financial Proof – Bank statement showing funds for tuition & living expenses
For Graduate (Master’s) Applicants:
Completed Application Form
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (Official, translated into English)
English Proficiency Test Scores (same as undergraduate requirements)
Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose – Explain why you want to study at NMHU
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 letters, depending on the program)
Resume/CV (for some programs)
GRE/GMAT Scores – Only required for some programs (MBA may require GMAT)
Where to Send Documents?
Documents can be uploaded through the NMHU application portal or emailed to [email protected]
4 Admission Decision
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks after submitting all documents.
NMHU will review your application and notify you via email.
If accepted, you will receive an Acceptance Letter and an I-20 Form (for visa application).
5 Apply for Your Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Once you receive your I-20 Form, follow these steps:
Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350 USD) at
Complete the DS-160 Visa Application at
Schedule a Visa Interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Attend your Visa Interview with:
I-20 Form (issued by NMHU)
Passport
Acceptance Letter from NMHU
Financial Documents (proof of funds for tuition & living expenses)
SEVIS Fee Receipt
6 Prepare for Arrival in the USA
Book Your Flight – Closest airport: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
Arrange Housing – Apply for on-campus housing or find off-campus options
Attend NMHU Orientation – Helps international students settle in
Check Housing Options Here: NMHU Housing
NMHU accepts applications for three intakes per year:
Semester |
Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Intake) |
June 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring (January Intake) |
November 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Summer (May/June Intake) |
March 1 |
Early June |
Late Applications: NMHU may accept late applications on a case-by-case basis. It is best to apply as early as possible to secure a place.
To apply for a bachelor’s degree at NMHU, international students must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualification
High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum GPA: 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
English Language Proficiency (Any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 61
IELTS: 5.5
Duolingo English Test: 90
PTE Academic: 44
(Applicants from English-speaking countries may be exempt from this requirement.)
Financial Proof
Bank statement showing sufficient funds for tuition & living expenses
Passport Copy
Optional: SAT/ACT scores (not required but may be submitted for scholarship consideration)
To apply for a master’s degree, students must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualification
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (Some programs accept 2.75 GPA with strong supporting documents.)
English Language Proficiency (Any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 61
IELTS: 5.5
Duolingo English Test: 90
PTE Academic: 44
Additional Requirements (Varies by Program)
Statement of Purpose (explaining career goals & reasons for choosing NMHU)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3, depending on the program)
Resume/CV (For MBA & some other programs)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Required for some programs, e.g., MBA may require GMAT.)
Program-Specific Requirements: Some master’s programs may have additional coursework or experience requirements.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NMHU International Scholarship |
New international undergraduate & graduate students with strong academic records |
Up to $1,000 tuition waiver |
Renewable based on GPA |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
GPA 3.5+ (out of 4.0) for new undergraduate students |
Up to $3,000 |
Automatically considered upon admission |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
GPA 3.75+, high academic achievement |
Up to $5,000 |
Limited awards, highly competitive |
|
Graduate Assistantships (GA) |
Available for master's students in various departments |
Partial/full tuition waiver + stipend |
Requires work as a teaching or research assistant |
|
Foundation Scholarships |
Varies by department & major |
$500 – $2,500 |
Based on financial need & academic merit |
|
NM Lottery Success Scholarship |
For undergraduate students transferring from a NM high school or college |
Up to full tuition |
Only for students who completed high school in New Mexico |
Residence Hall / Apartment |
Room Type |
Facilities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Melody Hall |
Double Occupancy |
Shared bathrooms, study lounges, Wi-Fi |
$4,400 |
|
Kennedy Hall |
Double Occupancy |
Community-style bathrooms, Wi-Fi, common areas |
$4,400 |
|
Northwest Apartments |
Single/Double Rooms |
Kitchen, private bathroom, furnished rooms |
$6,200 – $7,200 |
|
Stu Clark Hall |
Single/Double Rooms |
Private bathrooms, kitchenette, Wi-Fi |
$6,800 |
|
Arrott House (Graduate Housing) |
Single Room |
Private rooms, kitchen, quiet study areas |
$6,200 – $7,000 |
Expense |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Meal Plan (Dining Hall) |
$4,000 – $4,500 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,300 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$2,000 |
|
Health Insurance (Required for International Students) |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
Students who prefer off-campus housing can rent apartments in Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Housing Type |
Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
Estimated Yearly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
$500 – $700 |
$6,000 – $8,400 |
|
Single Apartment |
$700 – $900 |
$8,400 – $10,800 |
|
Studio Apartment |
$600 – $850 |
$7,200 – $10,200 |
Off-campus students must consider additional expenses like utilities, groceries, and transportation.
NMHU has a small, friendly campus located in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The university is known for its welcoming and diverse student body, including Hispanic, Native American, and international students. With small class sizes, students receive personalized attention from professors and build strong relationships with faculty and peers.
NMHU supports international students through:
International Student Office – Assists with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
International Student Club – Connects students from different backgrounds for cultural events and networking.
English Language Support – Tutoring and resources for non-native English speakers.
NMHU is known for its strong academic programs in Business, Social Work, Education, Science, and Media Arts. The university offers:
Research opportunities in STEM, social sciences, and humanities
Internships & career services to help students gain practical experience
Study abroad programs for students who want international exposure
Students at NMHU can join over 30 student organizations based on their interests, including:
Cultural & International Clubs (e.g., Hispanic Student Organization, Native American Club)
Academic Clubs (e.g., Business Club, Psychology Club)
Art & Media Clubs (e.g., Film Club, Photography Club)
Service & Leadership Organizations (e.g., Student Government, Volunteer Programs)
Students are also encouraged to start their own clubs if they have unique interests!
NMHU competes in NCAA Division II under the name Cowboys & Cowgirls. Sports include:
Football
Basketball
Soccer
Cross Country
Volleyball
Wrestling
For non-competitive players, NMHU offers intramural sports, fitness programs, and outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and skiing.
NMHU hosts various cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, such as:
Fiesta de la Hispanidad – Celebrating Hispanic culture with food, music, and dance.
Live Music & Open Mic Nights – Regular performances by students and local artists.
International Week – Showcasing the traditions and cuisines of different countries.
Seasonal Festivals & Holiday Celebrations – Including Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinners, and winter celebrations.
Located near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, NMHU students enjoy:
Hiking & camping at Storrie Lake and Gallinas Canyon
Skiing & snowboarding in nearby ski resorts
Fishing & kayaking in local lakes
Wildlife exploration & photography
The region’s mild climate allows for outdoor activities year-round.
NMHU provides career counseling, internship programs, and work-study opportunities for students. International students on F-1 visas can apply for on-campus jobs and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
Students can live in on-campus dormitories or off-campus apartments in Las Vegas, NM. On-campus housing includes:
Melody & Kennedy Halls – Affordable dorm-style living.
Northwest & Stu Clark Apartments – More private housing with kitchens.
Arrott House – Graduate student housing.
Dining options include cafeterias, cafés, and nearby restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
NMHU’s Career Services Office assists students with:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Personalized feedback and writing support.
Job & Internship Search Support – Guidance on applying for jobs in the U.S. and abroad.
Career Counseling & Mentorship – One-on-one advising with career professionals.
Mock Interviews & Professional Development Workshops – Helping students improve interview skills.
Networking Events & Job Fairs – Opportunities to connect with employers.
NMHU Career Services Contact: NMHU Career Services
NMHU encourages students to gain work experience through:
Internships & Co-op Programs – Many degree programs require or encourage internships.
On-Campus Jobs (Work-Study & Assistantships) – Available for undergraduate and graduate students.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Work opportunities for international students on an F-1 visa.
Industry Partnerships – NMHU collaborates with businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to provide real-world job experiences.
NMHU graduates find employment in various industries, including education, business, social work, technology, and healthcare. While the exact placement rate varies by program, NMHU reports a strong job placement rate within six months of graduation.
Field of Study |
Top Employers |
Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business (MBA, Accounting, Marketing, Management) |
Wells Fargo, State of New Mexico, U.S. Bank, Local Businesses |
$50,000 – $75,000 |
|
Computer Science & Information Systems |
Intel, IBM, Sandia National Labs, Tech Startups |
$60,000 – $90,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
Public & Private Schools, Universities, Nonprofits |
$45,000 – $65,000 |
|
Social Work (BSW, MSW) |
Hospitals, NGOs, State Agencies |
$50,000 – $70,000 |
|
Biology & Environmental Science |
Government Agencies, Research Labs, National Parks |
$45,000 – $70,000 |
|
Media Arts & Fine Arts |
Design Studios, Marketing Agencies, Film Companies |
$40,000 – $65,000 |
Note: Salaries vary based on location, experience, and industry.
NMHU graduates have secured jobs at reputed companies, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, including:
Intel Corporation
IBM
Wells Fargo
Sandia National Laboratories
New Mexico Public Schools
State of New Mexico
USDA Forest Service
UnitedHealth Group
Nonprofit & Community Organizations
Industry-Specific Career Counseling – Personalized career coaching for different fields.
Resume & LinkedIn Profile Building – Workshops to improve students’ job application materials.
Graduate Assistantships – Paid work opportunities for master’s students to gain experience.
Employer Networking Events & Job Fairs – Regular recruitment events featuring top employers.
Entrepreneurship Support – NMHU encourages business ideas through its business programs.
High Chances of Admission – As long as you meet the minimum academic and English language requirements, you are likely to be admitted.
Focus on Academic Preparation – While NMHU is not highly selective, maintaining a strong GPA and test scores can help in securing scholarships.
Easy Application Process – With fewer barriers to entry, students can expect a smooth admission process.
While NMHU has a high acceptance rate, some programs may have additional requirements:
Graduate Programs (Master’s degrees) – Some may require a higher GPA, letters of recommendation, or GRE/GMAT scores.
Scholarship Consideration – Higher academic achievements improve chances for financial aid.
English Proficiency Requirements – International students must meet TOEFL/IELTS or Duolingo requirements.
The main campus of New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) is located in Las Vegas, New Mexico, USA. The university also has regional centers across the state for students who prefer to study closer to home.
Address:
New Mexico Highlands University
1005 Diamond Street,
Las Vegas, NM 87701,
United States
About Las Vegas, NM:
A historic town in northeastern New Mexico, about 1 hour from Santa Fe and 2 hours from Albuquerque.
Surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes, offering hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities.
A safe, student-friendly environment with a lower cost of living compared to larger cities.
