Colleges and universities in New Mexico facts for kids

University of New Mexico

New Mexico is a state in the southwestern United States, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. It's also home to many excellent colleges and universities! These special schools are places where students go after high school to continue their education. They can learn about all sorts of subjects, from science and art to business and engineering. Going to college helps young people prepare for exciting careers and discover new things about the world.

What Are Colleges and Universities?

Colleges and universities are often called "higher education" institutions because they offer learning beyond high school. Students attend these schools to earn degrees, which are special certificates showing they have completed a certain level of study. A college often focuses on specific subjects or offers undergraduate degrees (like a bachelor's degree). A university is usually larger and offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees (like master's or doctorate degrees).

Why Go to College?

Many young people choose to go to college for several reasons. It's a great way to learn more about subjects you love or discover new interests. College also helps you gain important skills for many jobs. You can meet new friends, learn to live independently, and explore different cultures. It's a big step toward building a successful future!

Public Colleges and Universities in New Mexico

Public colleges and universities get some of their money from the state government. This often means they have lower tuition fees for students who live in New Mexico. They are open to everyone who meets their admission requirements.

• Central New Mexico Community College: This is a large community college in Albuquerque. Community colleges offer two-year programs that can lead to an associate's degree or help students transfer to a four-year university.
• Clovis Community College: Located in Clovis, this community college also provides two-year programs and training for various jobs.
• Diné College: This unique college serves the Navajo Nation and focuses on Navajo culture and language alongside other academic subjects. It has campuses in both New Mexico and Arizona.
• Eastern New Mexico University: Found in Portales, ENMU offers many bachelor's and master's degrees. It's known for its strong programs in communication and education.
• Institute of American Indian Arts: Located in Santa Fe, this special school focuses on contemporary Native American arts. Students can study things like creative writing, museum studies, and various art forms.
• Mesalands Community College: This college in Tucumcari is known for its unique programs, including paleontology (the study of fossils) and wind energy technology.
• New Mexico Highlands University: In Las Vegas, New Mexico, NMHU offers a wide range of programs, including education, social work, and business.
• New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology: Often called New Mexico Tech, this university in Socorro is famous for its science, engineering, and research programs, especially in areas like geology and explosives engineering.
• New Mexico Military Institute: Located in Roswell, NMMI is a military high school and junior college. It helps students develop leadership skills and prepare for military or civilian careers.
• New Mexico State University: NMSU is one of the largest universities in the state, located in Las Cruces. It's known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
• Northern New Mexico College: This college in Española offers both associate's and bachelor's degrees, with a focus on programs that help the local community.
• Santa Fe Community College: Located in the capital city, SFCC offers many different programs, including arts, health sciences, and trades.
• San Juan College: In Farmington, this community college provides education and training for students in the Four Corners region.
• University of New Mexico: UNM is the largest university in New Mexico, located in Albuquerque. It offers a huge variety of subjects and is a major research university.
• Western New Mexico University: Found in Silver City, WNMU offers many programs, including education, nursing, and business.

Private Colleges and Universities in New Mexico

Private colleges and universities do not receive money from the state government. They rely on tuition fees, donations, and other private funding. This often means their tuition costs can be higher, but they might offer different kinds of scholarships.

• Art Center Design College: This college in Albuquerque focuses on design and visual arts programs.
• College of the Southwest: Located in Hobbs, this private university offers programs in business, education, and arts and sciences.
• Santa Fe University of Art and Design: This university in Santa Fe was known for its programs in film, music, and other creative arts. (Note: This institution has since closed, but was a notable private school in New Mexico's history of higher education.)
• St. John's College: Located in Santa Fe, St. John's is famous for its unique "Great Books" curriculum. Students read and discuss classic works of literature, philosophy, and science instead of choosing traditional majors.