Great Basin College
General Information
About Great Basin College
Great Basin College (GBC), located in Elko, Nevada, is a public institution renowned for providing accessible and high-quality education to students across rural Nevada and beyond. Established to serve the educational needs of a geographically dispersed population, GBC offers a combination of traditional, online, and hybrid programs designed to accommodate working adults, first-generation college students, and community learners. The college emphasizes practical, career-oriented education while also fostering intellectual growth through general education courses, critical thinking development, and experiential learning opportunities.
With a focus on community engagement, GBC partners with local industries, businesses, and organizations to ensure students gain relevant skills for the workforce. The campus environment encourages close faculty-student interaction, mentorship, and individualized support, which is particularly valuable in smaller, rural settings. Students benefit from access to research projects, internships, and leadership programs, creating a strong foundation for both professional advancement and personal growth. Great Basin College aims to produce graduates who are not only competent in their respective fields but also committed to contributing positively to the community and regional development.
Contact Information
- Address: 1500 College Parkway, Elko, NV 89801, USA
- Phone: +1 775-753-2268
- Email: admissions@gbcnv.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1967 |
| Motto | “Knowledge. Community. Success.” |
| Type | Public College |
| Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 3,500 students |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 15:1 |
Great Basin College Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Regional Colleges in West | Top 50 |
| Online Programs National Ranking | Top 150 |
Great Basin College Academics
Great Basin College Faculties / Departments
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Business and Computing
- School of Education
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences
- School of Technical Studies
- School of Social Sciences and Humanities
Great Basin College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Education and Teacher Preparation
- Environmental Science and Natural Resources
- Information Technology
- Psychology and Social Sciences
- Agriculture and Applied Technology
- Emergency Medical Services
Online Learning
Great Basin College provides extensive online learning opportunities, including full online degrees, hybrid courses, and certificate programs. The online platform supports interactive lectures, discussion forums, virtual labs, and access to digital resources. This approach allows students in remote areas or with professional commitments to pursue higher education without geographical constraints, maintaining flexibility while ensuring academic rigor and engagement.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 950–1100 |
| ACT | 18–23 |
| GRE | Not widely required |
Retention and Graduation Rates
| Metric | Rate |
|---|---|
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Retention Rate | 60% |
Great Basin College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
GBC generally requires a minimum high school GPA of 2.5. Standardized test scores are optional for most undergraduate programs, reflecting the college’s commitment to access and inclusivity. Academic performance in key subjects such as English and mathematics is assessed to ensure readiness for college-level coursework.
Great Basin College Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance | 85% |
Great Basin College Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed application form, official high school or college transcripts, and proof of immunizations. Some programs, particularly in nursing or technical fields, may require additional prerequisites, entrance exams, or interviews. The admissions process focuses on holistic evaluation, considering academic history, professional aspirations, and personal motivation for higher education.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the application online.
- Submit official transcripts from high school or prior colleges.
- Provide immunization records and identification documents.
- Complete any program-specific assessments or prerequisites.
- Attend orientation or informational sessions if required.
- Receive admission notification and next steps for enrollment.
Great Basin College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | July 15 |
| Spring | December 1 |
| Summer | May 1 |
Essay Prompt
Certain programs may require a personal statement discussing the applicant’s career goals, educational objectives, and interest in the chosen field. Essays are evaluated for clarity, motivation, and alignment with program requirements.
Great Basin College Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and program-specific criteria. The college also provides grants, work-study opportunities, and external funding resources to support student success.
Great Basin College Tuition and Fees
| Program Type | Tuition | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| In-State Undergraduate | $5,000/year | $500 |
| Out-of-State Undergraduate | $12,000/year | $500 |
| Online Programs | $6,000–$8,000 | $400 |
Great Basin College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
- Gender: 55% female, 45% male
- Age: Primarily 18–35, including adult learners
- Race/Ethnicity: Diverse, including White, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, and African American students
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
GBC supports low-income students through federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and guidance. The college provides accessibility services, adaptive technology, and individualized support for students with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to all academic and extracurricular resources.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 3,500 |
| International Students | 50 |
University Diversity
Great Basin College values diversity and inclusion as central to its mission. The institution fosters a supportive environment where students from varying backgrounds can collaborate and learn from one another. Programs and initiatives promote cultural awareness, equity, and engagement in campus life. Exposure to diverse perspectives enhances students’ social skills, critical thinking, and professional readiness, preparing graduates to work in multicultural communities and globalized work environments. The campus culture encourages active participation in student organizations, leadership programs, and community service, reinforcing a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Great Basin College have variable earning potential depending on their field of study. Nursing and healthcare professionals often earn $50,000–$70,000 annually, while graduates in technical programs or business-related fields may start at $40,000–$60,000. Career services, internships, and local industry partnerships enhance job placement and earning prospects, enabling students to launch sustainable careers after graduation.
Great Basin College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The college employs experienced faculty with advanced degrees in their respective fields. Support staff provide assistance with admissions, academic advising, and student services, ensuring a student-centered learning environment.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members are dedicated educators and researchers, many with professional experience in healthcare, education, technology, and business. They engage in continuous professional development and mentorship, emphasizing practical skills, critical thinking, and ethical standards to prepare students for successful careers.
Great Basin College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The Elko campus provides a welcoming environment with student organizations, clubs, and cultural events. While on-campus housing is limited, nearby apartments and rental options are available. Students engage in academic workshops, social activities, and community service projects that enhance personal growth and campus involvement.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via major roads and local public transit. Parking is available for students commuting to campus. Its rural location encourages students to plan transportation effectively, while partnerships with local organizations provide access to clinical sites, internships, and practical learning opportunities.