New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
Out-of-state tuition
$6,360
In-state $2,718
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
7,200
Student-faculty ratio 21:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
15.6%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 21.6%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana (NMSU-Dona Ana) is a vibrant and diverse institution located in the heart of Las Cruces, New Mexico. As a branch of the New Mexico State University system, NMSU-Dona Ana provides a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to meet the needs of its student body. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and workforce development, the university offers associate degrees in various fields, including healthcare, business, engineering, and technology. The commitment to hands-on learning is reflected in its state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and dedicated spaces for technical training, which empower students to gain practical skills that are highly valued in the job market.
The campus culture at NMSU-Dona Ana is characterized by a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of belonging among its students. The university promotes a holistic educational experience by encouraging participation in extracurricular activities, including sports, student organizations, and community service initiatives. This commitment to student life is evident in the numerous events and programs hosted throughout the academic year, which aim to build camaraderie and enhance the overall college experience. Additionally, NMSU-Dona Ana is dedicated to academic excellence, with a qualified faculty who are passionate about teaching and mentoring students. Their expertise, coupled with a focus on personal development, prepares graduates to be competitive in their respective fields and contribute positively to society.
Analysis of Key Trends at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
One of the most striking trends observed at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana is the significant increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the in-state tuition rose from $1,872 to $2,718, reflecting a growth of approximately 45%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition increased from $4,968 to $6,360, marking a 28% rise. This trend highlights a broader national concern regarding the escalating costs of higher education, which can deter prospective students from pursuing their academic goals.
In parallel, the enrollment numbers for undergraduate students have shown a concerning decline over the same period. From a peak of 9,270 students in 2013, the number plummeted to 6,662 in 2023, indicating a steep decrease of around 28%. This decline in enrollment can be attributed to various factors, including rising tuition costs, which may contribute to students opting for more affordable institutions or forgoing higher education altogether.
Moreover, the retention rate has fluctuated but displayed a more positive trend recently, increasing from about 58.6% in 2013 to 63.8% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the university may have implemented successful strategies to keep students engaged and enrolled. However, despite this progress, the graduation rates remain relatively low, with only 4.7% of students graduating on time in 2023. This points to potential challenges in academic support and resources that may need to be addressed to improve student outcomes.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduate students shows a notable shift, with female students consistently outnumbering male students. In 2023, female students comprised 60.9% of the undergraduate population, which is indicative of changing demographics and highlights the need for universities to create inclusive environments that support all students effectively.
In summary, while there are some positive developments in retention rates, the increasing tuition costs and declining enrollment numbers present significant challenges for New Mexico State University-Dona Ana. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- El Paso, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- El Paso International Airport (ELP), about 45 mi
- Also known as
- NMSU-Dona Ana
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Monica Torres (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 5755287000
- City
- Las Cruces, New Mexico
- Address
- 2800 N. Sonoma Ranch Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88011
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
The graduate data from New Mexico State University-Dona Ana reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields. Notably, the health and medical programs showcase a strong output, with Registered Nursing leading with 32 graduates, followed by Medical/Clinical Assistant with 13. These figures highlight the growing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend reflected nationwide due to the ongoing healthcare crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In contrast, many technical and artistic programs, such as Architectural Technology and Digital Arts, report minimal or no graduates. This could indicate a lack of interest in these fields or possibly a mismatch between the curriculum offered and the market demand. Interestingly, the Business Administration and Management program also produced 47 graduates, suggesting a robust interest in business-related studies, which is consistent with the increasing importance of entrepreneurship and innovation in today’s economy.
Furthermore, the data on international students indicates that programs like Medical Radiologic Technology have attracted some international interest, with one international student graduating. This highlights the university's potential as a destination for international students, especially in health-related fields, which may further strengthen the institution's global reputation.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning academic offerings with labor market needs, particularly in healthcare and business, while also addressing the apparent gaps in technical and creative disciplines. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the workforce.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $28,705 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Hygiene/Hygienist. | - | |
| Medical Office Assistant/Specialist. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | |
| Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic). | $61,644 | |
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | $61,644 | |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician. | $61,644 | |
| Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer. | $61,644 | |
| Public Health, General. | - | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $80,400 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $27,406 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $32,715 | |
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | |
| Hospitality Administration/Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $30,879 | |
| Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Critical Infrastructure Protection. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Data Processing and Data Processing Technology/Technician. | $38,963 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician. | - | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $28,775 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Welding Technology/Welder. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - | |
| Game and Interactive Media Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary Arts/Chef Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Building Construction Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Engineering. | - |
Students
7,200 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 63.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 3,658
- First-year undergraduates 1,067
- Transfers and others 2,475
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (7,200)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
The student demographics at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana reveal interesting trends in the composition of the student body for 2023. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,107 students, with a gender distribution of 45.5% male and 54.5% female, indicating a slight female majority. This trend continues with the undergraduate seniors, where the population is 3,412, comprising 37.5% male and 62.5% female, suggesting a consistent increase in female representation as students progress through their academic journey.
The undergraduate transfer students number 222, and similarly to the previous categories, there is a higher percentage of females at 58.1% compared to 41.9% males. The overall trend across all groups indicates that female students are increasingly outnumbering their male counterparts, which is reflective of wider trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment.
Additionally, there are 1,921 non-degree seeking students, with a gender ratio of 38.2% male and 61.8% female. This demographic also aligns with the growing participation of women in various fields of study, particularly in higher education.
The data on racial and ethnic composition, although not fully detailed, highlights the diversity within the student body. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as institutions strive for inclusivity and equity in education. The trends observed at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana may inform policy decisions and recruitment strategies aimed at broadening access and support for all students, particularly underrepresented groups. Overall, the university's commitment to fostering a diverse and balanced educational environment is evident in these statistics.
Demographic Insights on Student Age Composition at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
The age composition of students at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 37% of the total student population. This is indicative of a strong influx of traditional college-age students who typically transition from high school to higher education.
The data also shows a steady decline in student numbers as age increases. The 20-21 age group accounts for about 23%, while the 22-24 age group contributes around 12%. These trends suggest that many students are completing their undergraduate studies within the typical time frame, further highlighting the university's role in facilitating timely graduation for young learners.
Interestingly, the university has no enrolled graduate students, which might suggest a focus on undergraduate education or possibly a lack of graduate program offerings. Additionally, there is a notable absence of female graduate students, reinforcing the idea that the institution primarily caters to undergraduates.
Moreover, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is minimal, pointing to a younger demographic that may reflect broader trends in higher education where younger individuals are more likely to pursue degrees. The representation of students over 65 years is particularly low, accounting for less than 1% of the total population. This demographic trend resonates with the national discourse on the importance of creating inclusive environments for non-traditional students, an area that could benefit from further development in policies and programs aimed at older learners.
Overall, the age distribution at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana paints a picture of a predominantly young, undergraduate-centric student body that may warrant further exploration into the factors influencing these demographic trends.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
150 in 2025 · 3.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
The data reveals significant fluctuations in international student enrollment at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana over the years. Initially, in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduates was quite low at just 1.11%. However, there was a notable increase in 2008 when the percentage surged to 6.51%, coinciding with a peak in the number of international undergraduates at 508. This spike may reflect broader trends in globalization and the appeal of U.S. higher education during that period.
From 2009 onwards, although the total number of undergraduate students continued to rise, the percentage of international students began to decline. By 2023, the percentage had dropped to 2.51%, signaling a potential shift in the university's attractiveness to international students or possibly greater competition from other institutions.
The data does not include information on graduate student enrollment, which limits our understanding of the overall internationalization of the university. However, the trends observed in undergraduate enrollment are concerning, especially given the current global context where many universities are striving to attract international talent.
As universities globally adapt to post-pandemic realities, it will be crucial for New Mexico State University-Dona Ana to reassess its outreach strategies to maintain and possibly increase its international student population. The changing demographics and preferences of students worldwide could influence future enrollment trends significantly.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,412
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $6,360
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $2,718
- Room and board
- $14,052
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 63%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$72.1M
Expenses$64.2M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
New Mexico State University-Main CampusLas Cruces · 5.1 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of Texas--El PasoEl Paso · 42.6 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of New Mexico-Main CampusAlbuquerque · 188.7 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of ArizonaTucson · 246.2 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 294.3 mi
U.S. News #186
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near New Mexico State University-Dona Ana:
-
University of New Mexico-Main Campus - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
St. John's College - With a rank of 93, this liberal arts college is known for its unique curriculum centered around the Great Books, fostering critical thinking and discussion.
-
University of Arizona - Ranked 115, this comprehensive university provides diverse academic programs and research opportunities in a vibrant campus environment.
-
Texas Tech University - With a rank of 216, this university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
University of Colorado Boulder - Ranked 105, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus located near the Rocky Mountains.
-
United States Air Force Academy - A prestigious institution ranked 7, it offers a rigorous academic and military training program for future leaders of the Air Force.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are valuable options for students in the region.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
The data on crime rates at New Mexico State University-Dona Ana reveals a notable decline in criminal incidents over the recent years. From a peak in 2014 with an average of 40.58 incidents per 1,000 students, there has been a consistent downward trend, reaching an average of only 14.47 incidents per 1,000 students in 2022. This significant reduction suggests that safety measures and crime prevention strategies implemented by the university may be having a positive effect.
Analyzing the specific types of crimes, it appears that incidents related to gun-related arrests have fluctuated, but overall, the campus has witnessed a decrease in serious offenses such as assault and drug-related arrests. For instance, the numbers for domestic violence and stalking were also notably low in recent years, which may reflect broader societal changes and increased awareness surrounding these issues.
Furthermore, the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 showed a temporary spike in crime rates, likely influenced by the significant disruptions and changes in campus life caused by COVID-19. However, the subsequent decrease in 2022 suggests a return to a safer environment as students and staff adapted to new norms.
The overall decline in crime rates is encouraging, but continued vigilance and proactive measures are essential to maintain and improve campus safety. It is crucial for universities to foster an environment where students feel safe and supported, not just through policy but also through community engagement and awareness programs. For those interested in understanding how these rates are calculated, more information can be found here.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.