Nevada Engineering Schools
Nevada offers engineering students access to modern facilities, high-growth industries, and strong academic programs. With its focus on innovation in energy, mining, infrastructure, and technology, Nevada’s engineering schools provide students with practical experience and opportunities to contribute to real-world problem solving in the West.
Why Study Engineering in Nevada
Nevada’s engineering programs are closely aligned with the state’s economic strengths in renewable energy, mining, aerospace, and technology. With growing investment in STEM fields and a strong demand for technical talent, students benefit from hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and career-ready education.
Here’s why Nevada is an appealing option for engineering students:
- Access to modern labs, research opportunities, and applied learning experiences
- High demand for engineers in energy, transportation, environmental, and civil sectors
- Partnerships with companies in mining, data centers, defense, and clean tech
- Affordable public education and growing state support for STEM initiatives
- Clear pipelines into high-growth engineering careers
Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Nevada
Nevada’s engineering programs are concentrated at its major public universities, which offer strong academics and research opportunities tied to regional industries. Below are the top engineering schools in the state. For more details, see the ABET-accredited programs section at the end of this profile.
The University of Nevada, Reno’s College of Engineering offers a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees, minors, and certificates across multiple engineering disciplines. Students benefit from hands-on learning, industry-focused minors, and advanced research facilities such as the William N. Pennington Engineering Building.
- Degree programs are available in the following areas:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. options:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Additional degree and certificate offerings include:
- Engineering Physics (B.S.)
- Robotics (M.S.)
- Engineering Education (Ph.D.)
- Graduate certificates in areas such as Nuclear Packaging, Cybersecurity, Renewable Energy, and Transportation Security and Safeguards
- Minors are offered in topics such as:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Big Data
- Construction Management
- Digital Interactive Games
- Sustainability
- Unmanned Autonomous Systems
- Accelerated programs are available to enable faster progression from undergraduate to graduate study.
About the University
The University of Nevada, Reno is a public research university located near the Sierra Nevada mountains. It serves as the state’s flagship land-grant institution and provides strong academic programs along with a commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement.
UNLV’s Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across core and interdisciplinary fields of engineering and computer science. With a curriculum designed around global challenges and industry demands, the college emphasizes applied learning through research labs, partnerships, capstone projects, and specialized programs.
- Departments and areas of study include:
- Civil and Environmental Engineering and Construction Management
- Focus areas include structural, transportation, geotechnical, water resources, and environmental engineering, as well as construction management.
- Computer Science
- Programs in computer science prepare students for roles in AI, machine learning, big data, and cybersecurity.
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Students study topics such as nanotechnology, renewable energy, communications, and system design.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Covers robotics, electric vehicle design, biomedical devices, and HVAC systems.
- Interdisciplinary and additional offerings include:
- B.S. in Entertainment Engineering and Design
- M.S. in Cybersecurity
- M.S. in Data Analytics
- Ph.D. in Water Resources
- B.A. in Engineering Technology
- Minors in Solar and Renewable Energy, Tech Commercialization, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems
- Notable initiatives and opportunities:
- Cyber Clinic offering real-world experience in cybersecurity
- StepUp & StartUp Internship Program with local tech companies
- Fred & Harriet Cox Senior Design Competition as a culminating student project experience
About the University
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a public research university classified as “very high research activity” (R1) and recognized for its commitment to diversity. It is located in one of the nation's most dynamic urban centers, offering students a vibrant environment and strong industry ties.
Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Nevada
Nevada offers a variety of financial aid options for engineering students, including state-funded scholarships, institutional awards, and need-based grants. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students pursuing careers in high-demand technical fields.
Statewide Financial Aid Programs
- Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship — Provides up to $10,000 in tuition assistance to eligible Nevada high school graduates attending in-state colleges or universities. Students must have a minimum 3.25 GPA and meet other academic requirements.
- Silver State Opportunity Grant (SSOG) — Nevada’s first state-supported, need-based financial aid program for low-income students attending community or state colleges within the Nevada System of Higher Education.
University-Specific Scholarships
- University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) — The College of Engineering offers various scholarships, including the CREATE Scholars program, which supports students pursuing degrees in engineering disciplines.
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) — The Howard R. Hughes College of Engineering provides annual scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students based on factors such as GPA, financial need, and major.
Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early to maximize eligibility for both federal and state aid programs.
Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Nevada
Engineering students planning to become licensed professionals in Nevada must meet the state’s specific education, examination, and experience requirements. In addition to the licensing board, local professional organizations offer support and networking opportunities throughout students’ academic and career journeys.
Key Resources:
These organizations are key allies for engineering students and professionals looking to grow their careers and stay engaged with the broader engineering community in Nevada.
FAQs About Engineering Education in Nevada
What engineering fields are most in demand in Nevada?
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering are especially important in Nevada, reflecting the state’s focus on infrastructure, water systems, energy, and high-tech development. Mining and materials engineering are also key due to the state’s natural resource industries.
Can I earn an engineering degree online in Nevada?
Yes. Nevada students have access to flexible options such as an online bachelor's degree in engineering and an online engineering master's degree. These are especially useful for working professionals and those in remote areas.
Do Nevada universities offer internship or research opportunities?
Definitely. Both UNLV and UNR have established partnerships with public agencies, engineering firms, and research labs, allowing students to participate in internships, co-ops, and faculty-led projects.
What support services are available for engineering students?
Engineering students have access to advising, tutoring, mentorship, and career support. Many also participate in student chapters of professional organizations such as ASCE, IEEE, and SWE.
ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Nevada
Earning a degree from one of Nevada’s ABET engineering degree programs ensures a high standard of academic quality and is often essential for licensure and employment in technical fields. Nevada’s public universities offer several accredited programs in disciplines that align with the state’s workforce and innovation priorities.
The table below outlines accredited engineering programs in the state by institution and field of study.
College of Southern Nevada |
North Las Vegas |
- Engineering Technology - Electronics Emphasis
- Engineering Technology - Telecommunications Emphasis |
University of Nevada - Las Vegas |
Las Vegas |
- Health Physics - Environmental Health Physics Option
- Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering |
University of Nevada, Reno |
Reno |
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Geological Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mining Engineering |
Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Nevada was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses can change, readers are encouraged to visit the ABET official website and the individual university websites linked above for the most current information. You can also refer to resources like the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers for guidance on licensure and educational planning.
Does your ideal career involve working with chemicals and highly-refined engineering technology? If so, you can start by earning a chemical engineering degree from one
Nevada Chemical Engineering Tell me more »