About UNM-LA

UNM-Los Alamos is a branch campus of The University of New Mexico, the state's flagship university.

UNM-LA campus from Diamond Drive

UNM-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) is known for small classes and dedicated instructors and staff. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, we offer the type of hands-on learning usually available only at a private college, but at a community college price.

We have a number of outstanding programs and services to meet a variety of student needs and interests. We offer certificate programs and associate degree programs; community education and customized training courses; small business development seminars through our Los Alamos Small Business Development Center; Adult Basic Education programs including High School Equivalency (HSE) credential and English as a Second Language (ESL); and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program.

History

  • 1945: Professors working on the Manhattan Project begin to offer graduate-level classes with transferability to Harvard University.

  • 1956: The University of New Mexico (UNM) establishes the UNM-Los Alamos Center for Graduate Studies, offering graduate level degrees in scientific, engineering, management and health-related fields.

  • 1973: The UNM Northern Branch College came into existence with Los Alamos as one of its campuses.

  • 1977: As a result of legislative action, the UNM Northern Branch College was absorbed into Northern New Mexico Community College.

  • 1980: The Los Alamos Branch Campus of The University of New Mexico (UNM-LA) was founded. It began operations in the Little Valley School and later in the year, moved to its present site.

  • 1982-83: The UNM-LA facilities were remodeled and expanded.
     
  • 1984: On Jan. 6, Gov. Toney Anaya dedicated the new UNM-LA facilities.  

  • 1989: Mesa Gymnasium was acquired from the Los Alamos Public Schools and was remodeled to provide additional classrooms. 

  • 1990: Building 6 was opened. 

  • 1996: The Learning Resource Center or Building 7 — an addition to the existing facility — was completed. It houses the library, Tutorial Center and the Adult Basic Education program. 

  • 2000: The remodeled Student Services Center was completed and opened. 

  • Mid-2000s: Building 8 was constructed and opened. 

  • 2023-24: Building 6 was gutted, remodeled and reopened.