UNLV (Lee) vs Hawaii (Shidler)
Which MBA program is right for you?
UNLV (Lee)
Hawaii (Shidler)
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | UNLV (Lee) | Hawaii (Shidler) |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #123 | #137 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60% | 65% |
| Avg. GMAT | 600 | 539 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.4 | 3.3 |
| Class Size | 40 | 35 |
| Avg. Salary | $94,000 | $80,000 |
| Employment Rate | 85% | 78% |
| Annual Tuition | $22,000 | $21,000 |
The Verdict
Choose UNLV (Lee) if…
you want hospitality and gaming management in the entertainment capital of the world with no state income tax.
Full UNLV (Lee) Profile →Choose Hawaii (Shidler) if…
you want Asia-Pacific business focus with island lifestyle and the only MBA in Hawaii.
Full Hawaii (Shidler) Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are hospitality-adjacent MBA programs in unique locations. UNLV Lee (#130) in Las Vegas specializes in gaming and resort management. Hawaii Shidler (#137) in Honolulu focuses on Asia-Pacific business and tourism. Both are affordable public MBAs. The career focus is different: Las Vegas is entertainment/gaming, Hawaii is Pacific Rim/tourism. Neither provides strong national career placement outside their niches.
The Honest Take
These serve different career paths despite the hospitality overlap. UNLV wins for gaming, casino management, and resort operations where Las Vegas is the undisputed global center. Hawaii wins for Asia-Pacific business and students committed to working in the Pacific region. UNLV has no state income tax; Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the US. For career ROI, UNLV's lower living costs and gaming industry salaries provide the edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
UNLV Lee (#130) slightly edges Hawaii Shidler (#137).
Which is better for hospitality?
Both are strong. UNLV for gaming and casinos. Hawaii for resort tourism and international hospitality.
Which has lower cost of living?
UNLV in Las Vegas, by a significant margin. Hawaii's cost of living is among the highest in the US.