The best community colleges in Las Vegas offer affordable tuition rates, smaller class sizes, and minimum requirements for a good education. Community college graduates can take on-campus or online courses to gain knowledge in a variety of different fields.
This guide will provide information on the best community college programs in Las Vegas, admission requirements, financial aid opportunities, popular programs, and jobs that you can find after graduation. We have also included some of the best online community colleges in Las Vegas for students interested in online learning.
How Many Community Colleges Are in Las Vegas?
There are four community colleges and one career college in Las Vegas. There are also five colleges in the nearby cities and counties of Carson, Henderson, Reno, Elko, and Clark county.
What Is the Biggest Community College in Las Vegas?
The biggest community college in Las Vegas is the College of Southern Nevada which has three campuses in Nevada. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are 29,965 students studying at the College of Southern Nevada.
What Are the Best Community Colleges in Las Vegas?
| Ranking | Community College | Graduation Rate | Student-to-Faculty Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carrington College – Las Vegas | 71% | 62:1 |
| 2 | Arizona College of Nursing – Las Vegas | 68% | 20:1 |
| 3 | Northwest Career College | 66% | 37:1 |
| 4 | Las Vegas College | 58% | 20:1 |
| 5 | Pima Medical Institute – Las Vegas | 54% | 18:1 |
| 6 | Great Basin College | 43% | 18:1 |
| 7 | Truckee Meadows Community College | 28% | 21:1 |
| 8 | Western Nevada College | 27% | 18:1 |
| 9 | Nevada State College | 23% | 18:1 |
| 10 | College of Southern Nevada | 15% | 21:1 |
The Best Community Colleges in Las Vegas: Explained
The best community colleges in Las Vegas offer a variety of programs in nursing, business, healthcare administration, and criminal justice. You will find information related to tuition, student population, financial aid, GPA requirements, and the best programs in the following sections.
Carrington College offers educational programs to prepare students for healthcare and high-paying medical jobs. Students benefit from a variety of learning resources and classroom facilities. There are two campus locations for Nevada students, one in Las Vegas and the other in Reno.
The Las Vegas campus offers five programs in medicine and dental care and an Associate Degree in Nursing program. It’s a good option for prospective students looking for an education in a health-related field.
Carrington College - Las Vegas Overview
- Tuition: $14,430 - $19,184/year (varies by program)
- Student Population: 374
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 100%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 62:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Carrington College - Las Vegas Programs
- Certificate of Achievement in Medical Billing and Coding. This online program teaches skills required for jobs in the medical office such as medical biller, medical patient information recorder, appointment scheduler, or medical secretary. You can also opt for an associate degree.
- Associate of Science in Health Studies. This is an online 60-credit program that is ideal for professionals who already have some experience in healthcare management and administration. Students can earn this associate degree to gain professional credibility and a competitive advantage.
- Associate in Respiratory Therapist Education. This three-year 74-credit program prepares professionals for a career in respiratory care. The program curriculum teaches students about emergency care, intubation, airway clearing, tracheostomy care, and pharmacology.
- Associate in Nursing. The curriculum encompasses 72 credit hours including lectures, lab, and clinical hours. Some of the courses include pharmacology, human anatomy and physiology, sociology, and psychology. Students may also learn pediatric nursing, medical and surgical nursing, and maternal-child nursing.
- Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant. This is a hands-on learning program that usually lasts 19 months or more with an internship opportunity. Students learn about body anatomies like muscles, ligaments, and tendons to support patient treatments.
Arizona College is a school for nursing and healthcare careers. Students enjoy a learning experience between a community of friendly colleagues and experienced faculty in the medical field. There are online, hybrid, and on-campus programs offered to students.
Some programs offer night courses for core classes making it easier to work in the daytime. They offer admissions multiple times a year and offer an Ability to Benefit program which allows students to earn a high school diploma while studying nursing.
Arizona College of Nursing - Las Vegas Overview
- Tuition: $733/credit hour
- Student Population: 746
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 100
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.75
Arizona College of Nursing - Las Vegas Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This is a three-year accredited program by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) to help you become a registered nurse. Students must complete 120 credit hours of study in generally nine semesters. This program gives you the opportunity to take the nursing exam after completion.
The school started as a massage school in 1997 and now offers programs in the field of criminal justice and healthcare. It is an accredited institution and is licensed for post-secondary education. Northwest Career College is built on family and connection with students and faculty dedicating themself to education.
Students can benefit from the wide variety of programs that are offered at Northwest Career College. There are many learning opportunities that are offered both online and on-campus.
Northwest Career College Overview
- Tuition: $3,374 - $7,437/term (varies by program)
- Student Population: 1,723
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 96%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 37:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Northwest Career College Programs
- Associate in Business Administration. This is an 18-month flexible program with on-campus and online GED courses. The curriculum is designed to equip business students with knowledge and skills to work in business administration.
- Associate in Paralegal. This is an associate program to pursue paralegal positions in law firms, government institutions, insurance companies, and corporate businesses. Students are introduced to the legal systems, legal proceedings, and justice cases.
- Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice. In this program, students learn about law enforcement, court proceedings, and the justice system. The program has a blended learning experience with a hands-on approach. It is suitable for students who want to pursue jobs as paralegals, mediators, and attorneys.
- Pharmacy Technician program. This is a training program to help you become a pharmacy technician in nine months. Upon completion, you will be able to earn a pharmacy technician certificate and work in clinics, labs, and hospitals.
- Phlebotomy Certification program. This is a short three-month certification training towards becoming a phlebotomy technician or phlebotomist. The course helps you study for the national phlebotomy certification.
Las Vegas College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission For Career Schools and Colleges. Las Vegas College offers associate degree programs related to healthcare, accounting, and business digital marketing. The nursing program is approved for license requirements by the Nevada State Board of Nursing.
Las Vegas College Overview
- Tuition: $130 - $475/credit hour (varies by program)
- Student Population: 399
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 89%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Las Vegas College Programs
- Associate of Applied Science in Cardiovascular Sonography. This is a two-year program offered only on-campus. Students take courses related to cardiovascular pharmacology and practices used in the field. In the program, students become well-versed in medical terminology and procedures for imagery, ultrasound, and sonography.
- Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. This is one of the job training programs for nurse positions. It covers the daily duties of what is required by a registered nurse. Students will learn to monitor sick patients, provide medicines, and track vitals.
- Associate of Science in Accounting. This is a program for entry-level accounting careers and accounting certifications. After the program, students will have adequate knowledge of data analysis, number discrepancies, and accounting software.
- Associate of Science in Digital Marketing. This is a comprehensive program of 21 months where you can gain marketing skills and become a member of the American Marketing Association.
- RN-to-BSN program. This is an online program for nursing jobs in different medical and health facilities. The curriculum covers using clinical judgment, taking care of patients, and understanding healthcare policies. It is also a program for registered nurses who want to gain more skills in a specialized area.
Pima Medical Institute is a 50-year-old private career college with 17 campus locations and programs in different education levels. You will find online programs with more flexibility in class schedules, affordable tuition rates, and curricula in all major areas of nursing school.
Pima also gives students the opportunity for clinical externships to gain practical experience in healthcare entry-level positions. By the end of the programs, you will be able to meet the requirements to acquire certificates as a dental assistant, medical assistant, and similar roles in healthcare.
Pima Medical Institute - Las Vegas Overview
- Tuition: $400 - $565/credit hour (varies by program)
- Student Population: 843
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 89%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Pima Medical Institute - Las Vegas Programs
- Certificate in Dental Assistant. This is a brief on-campus or hybrid program to help you gain the skills to assist the dental care team. You will learn about the basics of oral care, administrative tasks, and communication.
- Associate in Occupational Therapy Assistant. This is an accredited program offered on-campus to prepare occupational therapy assistants. You will be able to apply for the national certification examination with the skills and knowledge gained in the program.
- Associate in Veterinary Technician. The Associate in Veterinary Technician program is for students wanting to start a career in animal care management. You will be trained to help care for injured animals, take lab test samples, and provide first aid. The curriculum involves hands-on experience and is delivered on-campus only.
- Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration. This online program is designed to help start a career in healthcare administration. Graduates gain critical thinking skills, technical writing skills, and communication skills. This program requires a capstone project to complete the program requirements.
- Master of Science in Organizational Leadership. This is a two-year online program with specialization tracks in healthcare administration and public health. Graduates earn a broader range of management and leadership skills to apply in professional careers.
Great Basin College has a large community of online learners and students from surrounding counties. With over 4,000 students enrolled it offers associate and bachelor's programs in a variety of technical and academic areas.
Great Basin College Overview
- Tuition: $3,248 - $5,213/year (resident); $3,828 - $6,192/year (non-resident)
- Student Population: 3,772
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 74%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: 3.0 (for nursing)
Best Great Basin College Programs
- Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice. This criminal justice program introduces students to the criminal law and justice system. They will learn about identifying criminal behavior, the history of justice, the criminal investigation process, law enforcement agencies, and crime prevention.The program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours to complete.
- Associate of Science in Land Surveying/Geomatics. In this online program, students will learn to manage spatial data, take measurements, and work with applications. They will also learn theory and practice to gain the educational requirements for a license.
- Bachelor of Arts in English. Graduates of the program gain excellent writing, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and oral skills. The curriculum covers courses in logical thinking, technological proficiency, mathematics, and social science.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Information Technology. This BAS program is designed to prepare future managers in digital technology fields. Students will have the chance to enhance their business skills and decision-making skills throughout the program.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The curriculum of this program covers topics for registered nurses to move forward in their careers with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program is offered online to accommodate distant learners.
The Truckee Meadows Community College has the largest number of students across four campus locations in Reno, Nevada. Truckee Meadows Community College offers programs for current high school students, military or veteran students, non-degree seekers, transfer students, and international students. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Truckee Meadows Community College Overview
- Tuition: $112.75 - $185/credit hour (in state); $236.75 - $388.50/credit hour (out of state) (varies by program)
- Student Population: 10,249
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 82%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Truckee Meadows Community College Programs
- Associate of Applied Science in Fire Technology, Fire Suppression. The 63-unit program teaches students about fire protection, environmental science, and hazardous materials. The program prepares you for a professional license to help you become a firefighter or an emergency management and homeland security program.
- Associate of Arts in Anthropology. This is a program focused on the different concepts of anthropology including cultural anthropology, physical anthropology, and archaeology. Graduates can transfer to pursue a bachelor’s program at any school in the Nevada System of Higher Education system.
- Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice. In this program, students take a combination of general education, foreign language, humanities, and elective courses in four semesters. They study US and Nevada constitutions, administration of justice, criminal law, and procedure techniques.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics Operations Management. This is a 120-credit program covering topics like international logistics, transportation management, legal environment, security, automated production, and quality control. You will gain business knowledge and skills in purchasing and budgeting. You will need to complete a research capstone or internship in logistics operations management.
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This program will help you pursue a professional license to practice as a dental hygienist. Students can usually graduate in eight semesters, four of which contain dental hygiene program courses.
Western Nevada College is a public college in the state of Nevada with in-person, hybrid, and online courses. The college holds institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Students can find on-campus and off-campus employment online on the website or community job board.
WNC offers preparation courses for examinations to successfully earn industry certificates for technical careers. Certificate areas include electrical technician, brake technician, automotive engine repair, and automotive heating and air conditioning.
Western Nevada College Overview
- Tuition: $112.75 - $185.00/credit hour (in state); $124.00 - $203.50/credit hour (out of district, part-time); $56.50 - $92.50/credit hour (online); $90/unit (nursing)
- Student Population: 3,495
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 93%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best Western Nevada College Programs
- Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design. This is a 60-credit associate degree in visual foundations, digital art, design methodologies, typography, graphic designing, motion graphics, and web design. With this college degree, students can build a professional graphic design portfolio if they are interested in becoming a graphic designer.
- Associate of General Studies. This is a program that focuses on professional skills, career development, and career planning. You can choose between an Associate of Arts, Business, or Science to help align your career goals.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management. This is one of the two advanced degrees offered to associate degree students and new students. In the 120-credit course, students are introduced to business, management, and construction topics like CAD, construction laws and codes, cost control, and surveying and safety.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Organization and Project Management. This is an online course covering topics in IT project management, management information systems, applied accounting, and finance. Students with an associate degree can transfer a certain amount of credits for an accelerated program.
- Certificate in Mechatronics Technology. This is a 30-credit certificate program where students are introduced to the fundamentals of applied industrial technology, and various mechatronic components. Students take general education requirements to improve communication and professional skills for the workplace.
Nevada State College offers degree programs with minors and majors in diverse subjects. The programs offered are in education, science, and technology. They also offer programs that are not commonly available in community colleges such as deaf studies, environment and resource science, and public administration in law enforcement.
The elementary education programs also have concentrations in special education, biology, English, history, mathematics, and physical sciences. Students can also minor in American Sign Language (ASL).
Nevada State College Overview
- Tuition: $185/credit hour (in district); $203.50/credit hour (out of district)
- Student Population: 7,289
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 95%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.5
Best Nevada State College Programs
- Bachelor of Arts in Data Science. The program covers statistical models, data analysis, data visualization, research methods, and programming languages like Python and SQL. Data science majors develop decision-making skills and critical thinking skills required in the workforce.
- Bachelor of Arts in History. The program offers flexible schedules through a hybrid option. History majors can take women's history, oral history, and African American history courses. They also take a seminar course and discuss social issues and historical events.
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. This is a 120-credits degree program covering math core courses, English, biology, chemistry, and physics. You will have the opportunity to improve your analytical skills, mathematical skills, and problem-solving skills.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This is a part-time program that can be completed in 10 semesters. The curriculum covers courses in psychology, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, nutrition, and biostatistics. Some other topics are pharmacology, nursing care for children, and chronic and complex care.
- Master's of Education in Speech-Language Pathology. This is a full-time graduate degree program offered in Las Vegas. The curriculum covers communication disorders, linguistics norms, standards of practice and research in speech-language pathology, and clinical setting regulations.
College of Southern Nevada has three campus locations offering a wide variety of degree and certificate programs. The accredited college offers different certificates in business and law, real estate, retail management, paralegal studies, and hotel management. There are as many as 70 academic programs to help you find a successful career.
College of Southern Nevada Overview
- Tuition: $3,440/semester (in state); $11,340/semester (out of state)
- Student Population: 29,965
- Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 83%
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
- Minimum GPA Requirement: None
Best College of Southern Nevada Programs
- Associate of Applied Science in Applied Psychology. In addition to the general education courses, the program's curriculum includes core courses in counseling, substance use, therapeutic interventions, disability services, and mental Students must complete elective courses and a capstone project during the 60-credit program.
- Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Technology: Professional Pilot. The program prepares you to meet the requirements for certifications as a private pilot and commercial pilot. There are 23 general education courses and 39 program-specific courses including aviation meteorology, aerodynamics, safety, transportation, and instruments.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration. The undergraduate program is divided between upper and lower division requirements and electives. Students learn about fire prevention, emergency services, investigations, disaster planning, and protection systems. Other topics covered include fire dynamics, construction, hazardous materials, and managerial issues.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Scientist. This is an accredited 120-credit program with mandatory requirements that include an orientation and advisor meeting. Students must complete 51 credits in general education. The core courses include phlebotomy, applied clinical chemistry, hematology, clinical microbiology, and immunology.
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Tourism, Convention, and Event Planning. This is a program for careers in tourism and event management. Students must complete 120 credits in catering management, hospitality, event sponsorship, and marketing. It prepares students for successful careers in the hospitality and event sectors.
Best Online Community Colleges in Las Vegas
- College of Southern Nevada. This college offers a broad range of programs for students to earn skills certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees online. The online programs are in the areas of education, English, history, hospitality management, philosophy, and psychology.
- Great Basin College. At Great Basin College, students can earn degrees at the associate level along with Bachelor of Arts degrees, Bachelor of Science degrees, and Applied Science degrees. They also offer certificates and continuing education programs.
- Pima Medical Institute. The institution offers a variety of programs at different levels including two associate degrees, five bachelor’s degrees, and one master’s degree that can be completed online. Certificate programs for dental assistants, medical assistants, and pharmacy technicians are also offered in a hybrid format.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Other Las Vegas Community College Rankings
Below you will find important rankings for the best Las Vegas community colleges. We present the top three choices for transfer credit options, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees.
Best Community Colleges in Las Vegas for Transfer
- Arizona College of Nursing – Las Vegas. This nursing school allows students to transfer from accredited institutions. You can also transfer courses with lab components which ensures that your experience earned is used to keep you on track. Completion of the program also gives you access to the nursing board examination.
- Luna Community College. Luna Community College enables STEM students to transfer to other universities and colleges after completing an associate degree.
- College of Southern Nevada. Graduating students from this college are able to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program at universities like the University of Nevada. Depending on the area of study accelerated options may be available.
Best Community Colleges for Culinary Arts in Las Vegas
- College of Southern Nevada. The school offers a quality Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts as well as a certificate of achievement. Students can get an Associate of Applied Science degree in either culinary arts or pastry arts.
- Luna Community College. The culinary arts certificate program prepares students to work in commercial kitchen settings. They learn about the basics of baking, catering, and restaurant experience.
- Truckee Meadows Community College. The college offers multiple culinary arts programs such as the culinary arts entrepreneurs program which focuses on entrepreneurial and business skills. In addition to the culinary arts associate degree and certificate, there is also a baking and pastry certificate for students interested in baking.
Best Las Vegas Community Colleges That Offer Bachelor’s Degrees
- Great Basin College. Great Basin College offers on-campus and online programs including a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Applied Science. The areas of study are business and management, information technology, education, health sciences, social services, and social sciences.
- Pima Medical Institute. They offer five fully online bachelor’s programs in healthcare administration, nursing, physical therapist assistant, radiologic sciences, and respiratory therapy. These degrees take one to two years to fully complete.
- Truckee Meadows Community College. The college offers four-year degree programs in career and technical education leadership, cyber-physical manufacturing, dental hygiene, logistics operations management, and nursing.
Best Associate Degrees
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Best Community College Programs in Las Vegas
The best community college programs in Las Vegas include criminal justice, paramedic, occupational therapy, dental hygiene, and nursing. In Las Vegas, all community colleges have diverse health care administration or health sciences programs at certificate, training, associate, and also bachelor’s levels.
Criminal Justice
Criminal justice students can complete associate and bachelor’s degrees with transfer options in continuing education. Most criminal justice majors pursue entry-level positions in law and law enforcement. With experience and training, students can go on to work as criminal advisors, investigators, or in forensics.
Paramedic
Paramedic training is offered at many Las Vegas community colleges. Once the program is completed students will be able to work as emergency responders, first responders, or ambulance drivers. These programs are a hands-on learning experience, are very rigorous, and require analytical and quick thinking.
Occupational Therapy
Programs for occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistants cover topics and techniques to help professionals care for their patients. Graduating from an occupational therapy program will help you find jobs in health institutes or in private practices.
Dental Hygiene
Dental assistants are a popular high-paying job in Las Vegas. Dental hygiene students can begin their study at the associate level which will prepare them for licenses and examinations. Students can continue their education and become a dentist, or work in a dental office.
Nursing
Nursing programs are the most popular program in Las Vegas with programs ranging from certificates to academic degrees and advanced degrees. These programs are available on-campus or online to prepare future nurses with the skills and knowledge to work in healthcare.
Las Vegas Community College Admission Requirements
The admission requirements to attend a community college in Las Vegas are typically a high school diploma or equivalent certificate, an entrance exam, and a completed online application form. You will be contacted by admissions or financial aid to discuss the admission process.
Las Vegas Community College GPA Requirements
First-time students must have a high school diploma and have completed courses in English, mathematics, and social sciences. Some community colleges have specified a GPA requirement like the Nevada State College which enrolls incoming high school students. Other colleges may require a general GPA of 3.0 for admissions.
Overall the community colleges in the list above do not require a minimum GPA requirement except for nursing programs. The requirements for nursing programs may differ, such as the RN to BSN bachelor’s degree which requires students to have a comparatively higher GPA. Arizona College of Nursing accepts students with a 2.75 high school GPA.
Residency Requirements for Community Colleges in Las Vegas
The residency requirements are specific to the particular college being applied to and may affect tuition, and financial aid costs. For admission to a Nevada community college or university with in-state tuition rates, students must be living in Nevada for a least 12 months.
Generally, students from out of state or out of district may not be eligible for certain financial aid opportunities offered by the school. Students may also have to pay a higher credit hour rate while completing their program. Some schools offer general tuition rates, regardless of residency.
Las Vegas Community College Age Requirements
Community colleges accept prospective students who are 16 years of age or older. Most community colleges in Las Vegas have not made the age requirement specific, except the College of Southern Nevada where students must be 16 years or older to be admitted.
Nevada Community College Admission Requirements: A Summary
- GPA
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Entrance exam (if required)
- 16 years of age
- US citizenship, visa, or proof of residency
- Interview
Why Study in Las Vegas?
You should study in Las Vegas because the city offers great educational opportunities, good job prospects, and accredited programs. Las Vegas is also a lively city with a lot of tourism, making it a great location to meet people and have a full college experience. Below we have broken down some of these reasons in more depth.
Educational Opportunities
With the different types of academic degrees, students have ample educational opportunities to reach high academic achievement at public or private colleges. With internships, transfer options, online classes, and flexible formats, students can gain a vibrant college experience at Las Vegas schools.
Job Opportunities
Las Vegas offers plenty of job opportunities in healthcare, hotel management, and law. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare employment is expected to grow by 16% in the next 10 years.
Accredited Programs
Most programs offered in Las Vegas community colleges are accredited. This means that they have a high educational standard and meet specific criteria that will give you quality education. Accredited programs are continuously developed and improved to maintain accreditation requirements.
Las Vegas Employment Outlook for Community College Students
The unemployment rate in Las Vegas city has declined five percent in the last few years, according to the Local Area Unemployment Statistics by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The city has professionals employed in the fields of catering and hotels, office administration, transportation, sales, healthcare, and management.
The job prospects for employment in the fields of hospitality, professional and business services, and manufacturing are all on an upward positive trend, reports BLS, meaning there is a growing number of career opportunities opening up for community college graduates.
5 In-Demand Las Vegas Jobs
Below are the top five highest-paying jobs in Las Vegas with job openings, national average salaries, and the best programs to lead you into careers in these positions. Some of the jobs include occupational therapy assistant, dental hygenist, paramedic, and registered nurse.
Occupational therapy assistants help patients with their treatment plans and assist occupational therapists with daily tasks. After an associate degree, students will need to complete certifications and examinations to become registered.
Dental hygienists offer preventive care for patients to maintain oral hygiene and find signs of disease. After completion of the program, students will have a Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene and are qualified to take the Dental Hygiene National Board Examination to become licensed and practice.
Paramedics are emergency responders that administer care to people in emergency situations. They are involved in the transportation, initial assessment, and care of patients in medical emergencies. After completion of the program, students will have the skills and knowledge to work in prehospital emergency medicine.
Registered nurses take care of patients by assessing and observing their health. They monitor treatment plans, provide medications, and assist doctors in healthcare facilities. To become a registered nurse, you must complete a nursing program and pass a nursing exam before practicing with a license.
Police and detectives mainly ensure the safety of the public. They investigate any crimes, patrol areas, assist in legal casework, prepare documents, and respond to emergencies. After the program is complete students may work in entry-level positions or continue on to graduate degrees in similar fields.
What Community Colleges in Las Vegas Have Dorms?
Community colleges in Las Vegas with dorms are the College of Southern Nevada, Great Basin College, and Nevada State College. Dorms and student housing are provided by many colleges to help students be close to the school. While this provides convenience it can also be a costly addition to expenses each year.
Las Vegas Community Colleges With Dorms
- College of Southern Nevada
- Great Basin College
- Nevada State College
What Community Colleges Offer Winter Intersession in Las Vegas?
Some colleges offer short sessions at the end of the year called winter intersessions. Students can take brief courses in their program to better manage their course load. Taking courses in this session will also help you graduate on time and manage a good GPA.
Las Vegas Community Colleges With Winter Intersession
- Nevada State College
- Truckee Meadows Community College
- Western Nevada College
What Community Colleges in Las Vegas Have Summer Classes?
Community colleges in Las Vegas that offer summer sessions are Great Basin College, Lina Community College, and Las Vegas College. Summer classes are great for students who want to accelerate their graduation date or catch up on classes or credits they may be missing.
Las Vegas Community Colleges With Summer Classes
- College of Southern Nevada
- Great Basin College
- Las Vegas College
- Luna Community College
- Western Nevada College
How to Apply to Community College in Las Vegas
Applying to community colleges is an easy and quick process with few requirements. You can apply to a community college in Las Vegas by following this step-by-step process.
Las Vegas Community College Application Steps
- Choose a school
- Explore and choose your degree or certificate program with the help of an admissions advisor or school website
- Explore financial aid options available on your school website and submit FAFSA or FAFSA non-filers applications
- Submit required documents
- Wait for response
Cost of Community Colleges in Las Vegas
The cost of community colleges for Nevada students is $6,023 on average, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Students studying from outside the state will pay on average $26,284. The cost of tuition and fees will vary depending on the program and the specific school you attend.
Are Community Colleges Ever Free in Las Vegas?
No, community colleges in Las Vegas are not free, but there are financial aid options. The Nevada Promise Scholarship helps high school students pursue degrees at community colleges with as much financial coverage as possible. The Promise scholarship covers tuition and other fees after all financial aid.
Which Community Colleges Are Free in Las Vegas?
There are four community colleges that participate in the Nevada Promise Scholarship. First-time students can enroll in programs at the Great Basin College, College of Southern Nevada, Truckee Meadows Community College, and Western Nevada College.
Who Qualifies for Free Community College in Las Vegas?
High school students under 20 years of age from Nevada can apply for the Nevada Promise Scholarship. They must apply through FAFSA and complete two mandatory informational training sessions before being accepted into the program.
How to Apply for Free Community College in Las Vegas
- Complete a mentorship
- Apply to community colleges in Las Vegas or surrounding counties in Nevada
- Apply for financial aid through FAFSA
- Attend the training sessions
Scholarships for Community Colleges in Las Vegas
Scholarships for community colleges in Las Vegas include the Carrington High School Scholarship, Jacobs Presidential Scholars Program, and Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship. Some of these scholarships are offered during the first year, per credit, or for a fixed amount.
How to Get a Scholarship for Community Colleges in Nevada
- Check the school page or scholarship information online to know the requirements
- If you meet the requirements, prepare your application and a motivation letter to show how you qualify
- Fill out the FAFSA form (if required)
- Verify your financial situation (if required)
- Submit your application for the scholarship request
- Maintain GPA during the program (if required)
Las Vegas Community College Scholarships List
- Carrington High School Scholarship | Amount: $1,000. This scholarship is offered to recent high school graduates and can be used towards their tuition.
- Jacobs Presidential Scholars Program | $Amount: $1,000. You must be able to show unemployment and have a GPA of 2.0 or higher to apply for the scholarship. It is granted to currently enrolled students taking at least six credits.
- Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship | $Amount: $40/credit. To study at a community college in Nevada, the students can get an amount per credit for up to 15 classes each semester.
Other Las Vegas Community College Financial Aid Options
Most community colleges in Las Vegas offer financial aid programs to help students pursue their learning and education goals. Las Vegas community colleges’ financial aid options include grants, student loans, scholarships, student employment, and military benefits.
Federal Grants
To apply for federal grants, students must apply through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. If qualified, you will be awarded a specific federal grant for your situation. The amount granted may vary by program and duration.
Nevada Grants
Upon applying through FAFSA, you can also qualify for grants like the Silver State Opportunity Grant Program if you qualify as a low-income student who is enrolled in an eligible program. The Nevada State Access Grant is needs-based funding for eligible students. Other grants include the Nevada State College Grant and Nevada State Opportunity Grant.
Student Loans
To apply for federal loans, you will need to complete your FAFSA application form which will tell you the federal government funding options available to you. You can also get a loan from the college that you are studying like Carrington College. There are also subsidized, non-subsidized, and non-federal loan options to explore.
Scholarships
Scholarships are offered to qualifying students who meet a high-educational standard as they are usually merit-based or needs-based. Some scholarships are awarded to high school graduates entering a college program. The requirements and criteria to apply for scholarships can be based on GPA, admissions sessions, and transcripts.
Work-Study Employment
Some colleges offer on-campus employment to students through job boards and work-study programs. Arizona College of Nursing allows students to work and finance their degrees at the same time. These not only help finance their program but also gain experience in the field.
The Best Financial Aid for Your Situation
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What Are the Financial Aid Requirements for Community Colleges in Las Vegas?
The financial aid requirements for community colleges in Las Vegas are proof of residency in the state of Nevada, proof of acceptance to a college, and enrollment in a number of credit courses. A certain GPA might be required for scholarships and grants. Some colleges may ask for proof of dependents if you are a caregiver.
Las Vegas Financial Aid Requirements: Overview
- Residency status
- Family status
- GPA
- Credits enrolled
Should You Attend Community College in Las Vegas?
Yes, you should attend community colleges in Las Vegas. Las Vegas is a great city for students who want to pursue careers in healthcare, law, game development, and accounting. There are many financial aid and scholarship opportunities for prospective students along with a great campus life and campus housing for a rich college experience.
Las Vegas Community College Rankings: Methodology
Our ranking of Las Vegas community colleges is based mainly on graduation rate. If graduation rate statistics were not available, we used data on student-to-faculty ratios to rank the remaining schools. These figures, sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), best reflect a student’s chances of getting the education and help they need to succeed.
Best Accelerated Degrees
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Best Las Vegas Community Colleges FAQ
Yes. FAFSA helps out of state residents with tuition funding and grants, but it may be limited in comparison to the funding provided to resident students.
No, UNLV, or the University of Nevada – Las Vegas, is not a community college. It is a public university located in Paradise, Nevada that offers a variety of programs at the college and university levels.
A con of studying in Las Vegas is that it is a large tourist destination which can make the cost of living more expensive than in other cities in Nevada.
You can get the in-state tuition price in Nevada if you can show that you pay your own taxes and have resided in, and currently reside in, Nevada for more than 12 months.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
