New Mexico Highlands University
Out-of-state tuition
$12,336
In-state $7,416
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,603
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
16.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 25.5%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), located in Las Vegas, New Mexico, is a public university known for its commitment to providing a quality education in a supportive and culturally rich environment. Established in 1893, NMHU has a diverse student body and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including education, social sciences, business, and health sciences. The university prides itself on its dedication to serving the needs of its students and the surrounding community, emphasizing accessibility and affordability in higher education. NMHU's campus is characterized by its beautiful landscapes and a strong sense of community, which fosters a welcoming atmosphere for students from all backgrounds.
One of the key aspects of NMHU is its strong emphasis on student success and engagement. The university's faculty is highly qualified and dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, ensuring they receive the mentorship and academic support necessary for their success. Additionally, NMHU offers various extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student organizations, allowing students to develop their interests and leadership skills outside the classroom. The university's commitment to community service and social responsibility is evident through numerous outreach programs, which encourage students to give back to the local community. Furthermore, NMHU's location in the beautiful mountainous region of New Mexico provides students with unique opportunities for outdoor activities, enhancing their overall college experience.
Trends in Tuition Fees, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from New Mexico Highlands University reveals significant trends that warrant attention, particularly in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention. Over the period from 2014 to 2024, both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition fees have seen a notable increase. For instance, in-state tuition rose from $4,000 in 2014 to $7,260 in 2024, while out-of-state tuition jumped from $6,382 to $12,180 during the same period. This trend of rising tuition might deter potential students, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, raising concerns about accessibility to higher education.
In terms of graduation rates, there has been a positive shift. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from approximately 3.17% in 2013 to 20.36% in 2023. This increase may reflect improved academic support systems, more engaging curricula, or better student advising practices. Furthermore, the 150% graduation rate also rose from about 19.05% to 28.73%, suggesting that more students are completing their degrees within an extended timeframe.
Retention rates have also shown a favorable trend, with the percentage of undergraduate students retained from one year to the next climbing from around 55.31% in 2013 to 63.01% in 2023. This increase indicates that the university may be successfully fostering a supportive environment that encourages students to continue their education.
Overall, while the increase in tuition fees poses challenges, the concurrent rise in graduation and retention rates suggests that New Mexico Highlands University is making strides in enhancing student success. These trends highlight the importance of balancing financial accessibility with academic support to ensure that all students can thrive in their educational pursuits.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Albuquerque, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Neil Woolf (President)
- Phone
- 5054257511
- City
- Las Vegas, New Mexico
- Address
- 803 University Ave, Las Vegas, NM 87701
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Clinical/Medical Social Work · Master's117 (3% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's54 (2% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's51 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's27 (4% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's14 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's14 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at New Mexico Highlands University
The data on graduates from New Mexico Highlands University presents intriguing insights into the dynamics of various academic programs. Notably, the field of Clinical/Medical Social Work stands out with a significant number of master’s degree graduates, totaling 140. This is particularly relevant given the increasing demand for mental health professionals in the wake of heightened awareness surrounding mental health issues globally, emphasizing the need for skilled practitioners in this field.
In the realm of education, various specializations appear to be well represented, especially in Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching and Elementary Education, where numerous bachelor’s degrees were awarded. This trend aligns with a broader societal push towards early childhood education, which is recognized as critical for child development and foundational learning.
Interestingly, the data reveals a lack of international students graduating from several programs, particularly in the undergraduate and doctoral categories. For instance, there were no international graduates reported in the bachelor’s programs, which could reflect broader global trends or specific institutional challenges in attracting international talent. Conversely, the small number of international students completing master’s degrees, particularly in Clinical/Medical Social Work, suggests potential for growth in this area, especially as universities often benefit from the diverse perspectives international students bring.
Furthermore, the limited representation of programs like Criminal Justice and Public Administration in terms of graduates indicates a niche market that may require further exploration to enhance its appeal and relevance to prospective students. Overall, the data reveals a clear focus on health and education fields at New Mexico Highlands University, while also highlighting areas of opportunity for growth, particularly in attracting a more diverse student body and expanding certain academic programs.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical/Medical Social Work. | $35,990-$53,709 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $91,241 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $91,241 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $62,389 | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $69,037 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $46,804 | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $50,117 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,618 | |||
| Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching. | $47,618 | |||
| Health Teacher Education. | $24,444 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $24,444 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $49,208-$63,957 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $49,208-$63,957 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $49,208-$63,957 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,641 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Wildlife Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communications Technologies/Technicians and Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. | - | |||
| Forestry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,484 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Information Science/Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Social Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Resource Management and Policy Analysis. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
2,704 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 49.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,005
- First-year undergraduates 215
- Graduate students 1,101
- Transfers and others 383
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,603)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at New Mexico Highlands University in 2023
In the 2023 data from New Mexico Highlands University, the student body reflects a diverse composition with notable gender ratios and ethnic backgrounds. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 246 students, with males representing 52% and females 48%. This relatively balanced gender ratio is commendable and may foster an inclusive environment for new students.
As we look at the continuing undergraduate students, the demographic shifts become apparent. There are 961 continuing students, where males comprise only 31.9% and females dominate at 68.1%. This significant gender disparity raises questions about the retention rates of male students and could indicate a need for targeted initiatives to support their academic journey.
The transfer student category shows similar trends, with 293 students and a male representation of 32.4% against 67.6% for females. The graduate student population also reflects a higher proportion of females, with 1052 students comprising 24.6% male and 75.4% female. This pattern of female dominance in higher academic levels is consistent with national trends, where women are increasingly outpacing men in graduate education.
Ethnic diversity is also highlighted in the data, particularly among the white, Latino, Asian, and other minority groups. However, detailed statistics on these subgroups are less comprehensive due to the absence of specific numbers for some categories. The overall trend suggests that while New Mexico Highlands University is successful in attracting a diverse student population, especially in terms of gender, it may need to explore strategies to enhance male student engagement and retention, particularly in upper-level and graduate programs.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at New Mexico Highlands University
The age demographic data from New Mexico Highlands University reveals intriguing insights into the student population's composition. Notably, the largest cohort of students falls within the 22-24 age range, which includes both undergraduate and graduate students. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that many students tend to enter higher education immediately after completing high school but also return later to pursue advanced degrees.
The data indicates a significant gender disparity, particularly among the younger age groups. For instance, in the <18 category, there are 39 female students compared to only 21 male students. This pattern continues into the 18-19 age bracket, where female enrollment surpasses male enrollment, suggesting a growing interest among women in pursuing higher education early on.
Interestingly, as students age, the enrollment numbers shift, with a notable rise in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. These age brackets reveal a higher number of males enrolled in graduate programs, indicating that more men are returning to academia for advanced degrees later in life. This trend may reflect broader societal shifts, as individuals increasingly seek to enhance their qualifications in a competitive job market.
The data also highlights that the 40-49 age group has the highest total female enrollment, suggesting that older women are actively engaging in continuing education, which may be influenced by changing career dynamics and the pursuit of personal development.
Overall, New Mexico Highlands University showcases a diverse age range among its student body, with a noticeable emphasis on female participation, particularly in the younger demographics. This trend signifies a positive move towards gender equality in education, while also illustrating the evolving landscape of higher education where lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
43 in 2025 · 5.6% in 2016
38 in 2025 · 6.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at New Mexico Highlands University
The data on international student enrollment at New Mexico Highlands University reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has fluctuated significantly, starting at 12 and peaking at 166 in 2013. This peak aligns with a broader trend seen across many U.S. universities, where international enrollment surged during that period, driven by factors such as accessible education and favorable immigration policies.
However, the enrollment figures indicate a decline in the subsequent years, particularly after 2016. By 2022, the number of international undergraduates dropped to 53, reflecting a concerning trend that many institutions have faced in recent years. Factors contributing to this decline may include increased visa restrictions, rising tuition costs, and the global pandemic's impact on international travel and educational plans.
In contrast, while the total number of graduate students has also seen fluctuations, the percentage of international students appears to have increased slightly over the years. The graduate international enrollment reached its highest percentage in 2018, with 7.14%. This suggests that while undergraduate programs may be facing challenges in attracting international students, graduate programs may still retain some appeal, possibly due to specialized programs or research opportunities.
Overall, the evolving landscape for international students at New Mexico Highlands University mirrors larger national trends, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt their strategies to attract and support this vital demographic amidst changing global circumstances.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$22,452
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $12,336
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,416
- Room and board
- $10,116
- Graduate tuition
- $12,792
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 64% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 41%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$115M
Expenses$90.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference
Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 87 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 56 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Wrestling | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 16 |
| Soccer | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 129 | - |
| Baseball | 52 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 49 |
| Basketball | 22 | 17 |
| Wrestling | 28 | - |
| Soccer | - | 26 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 92 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | - | 54 |
| Basketball | 24 | 13 |
| Baseball | 33 | - |
| Wrestling | 31 | - |
| Soccer | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Cross Country | 7 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of New Mexico-Main CampusAlbuquerque · 86.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Colorado CollegeColorado Springs · 225.8 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 235.6 mi
U.S. News #186
-
United States Air Force AcademyUSAF Academy · 236.6 mi
Liberal Arts #11
-
New Mexico State University-Main CampusLas Cruces · 245.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University of Texas--El PasoEl Paso · 274.5 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of DenverDenver · 282.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Colorado School of MinesGolden · 287.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
University of Colorado DenverDenver · 287.4 mi
U.S. News #236
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near New Mexico Highlands University:
-
University of New Mexico-Main Campus - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Colorado College - With a rank of 33, this liberal arts college is known for its unique Block Plan, allowing students to focus on one course at a time for three and a half weeks.
-
Texas Tech University - Ranked 216, Texas Tech is a comprehensive university that offers a diverse range of academic programs across multiple disciplines.
-
University of Colorado Boulder - This comprehensive university is ranked 105 and is recognized for its commitment to research and the quality of its educational programs.
-
University of Arizona - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is known for its research initiatives and wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and have established reputations in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at New Mexico Highlands University
The crime data from New Mexico Highlands University reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rates per 1,000 students from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the highest crime rate was recorded in 2016, reaching approximately 10.86 incidents per 1,000 students. This spike could be attributed to various social factors or specific incidents that occurred during that year, which warrant further investigation.
In contrast, the data shows a downward trend in crime rates following 2016, culminating in a low of 3.14 incidents per 1,000 students in 2023. This decline may reflect effective crime prevention strategies or increased awareness among the student body regarding safety practices. However, it is essential to approach these numbers with caution—while the overall crime rate appears to decrease, the varied types of crimes reported, such as drug arrests and assaults, indicate ongoing challenges within campus safety.
Moreover, the presence of gun-related arrests, domestic violence, and other violent crimes underscores the complexity of campus security. As universities strive to create safer environments for their students, these statistics highlight the need for comprehensive support systems, educational programs, and community engagement to address the root causes of crime.
Understanding these trends is crucial for university officials, policymakers, and students alike, as they reflect the broader societal issues affecting campus life. Continuous monitoring of crime data and proactive measures can foster an environment where students feel secure and supported.
For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of New Mexico Highlands University include Eddie Guerrero (Professional wrestler in WCW and WWE), Ben Ray Luján (U.S. Senator from New Mexico) and Keith Jardine (Actor and retired UFC mixed martial artist).
-
Eddie Guerrero 1967–2005
Professional wrestler in WCW and WWE
-
Ben Ray Luján 1972–
U.S. Senator from New Mexico
-
Keith Jardine 1975–
Actor and retired UFC mixed martial artist
-
Georgia Lee Lusk 1893–1971
First female U.S. representative from New Mexico
-
Lionel Taylor 1935–2025
Football player and coach; Denver Broncos receiver
-
Antonio M. Fernández 1902–1956
US representative from New Mexico
-
Bill Dinwiddie 1943–2023
Former NBA basketball player
-
Chris Newsome 1990–
Filipino-American basketball player for Meralco Bolts
-
John A. Gordon 1946–2020
Air force general and Deputy Director of the CIA
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
Rebecca Vigil-Giron 1954–
Former New Mexico Secretary of State
-
Hector Balderas 1973–
Former Attorney General of New Mexico
Arts and media
-
Ann Nolan Clark 1896–1995
Writer, winner of the 1953 Newbery Medal
-
Anthony Durand 1956–2009
Potter from Picuris Pueblo
Sports
-
Carl Garrett 1947–2020
Football running back who began with the Boston Patriots
-
Reggie Garrett 1951–
Former NFL wide receiver for the Steelers
-
Don Woods 1951–
Former NFL running back for Chargers and 49ers
-
Kevon Williams 1991–
US national rugby sevens player
-
Drew Martin 1994–
Professional basketball player
-
Nick Rolovich 1979–
American football coach and former player
-
Anthony Edwards 1966–
Former NFL wide receiver
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.