The University of New Mexico is the leading institution of higher education in the area of online and distance learning. UNM Online continues to expand the number of courses, degrees and programs it offers through its various campuses. Starting in 2007, the Innovative Digital Education and Learning (IDEAL-NM) project was founded to further the development of online training opportunities for government employees, however K-12 virtual learning initiatives are still in the beginning stages and in great need of funding. In 2013, a total of six colleges in the state offered online courses, degrees or certificate programs, including: Central New Mexico Community College, New Mexico Junior College and Santa Fe Community College.
An unfortunate lack of state funding is a primary concern for New Mexico, since state spending between the years of 2006 and 2011 dipped largely by 16.3%. This might account partially for the increase in tuition cost of 34.5% for four-year public institutions during the same timeframe. Despite this growing financial burden that typically falls upon students, enrollment has increased by 12.4%. For those students already enrolled in higher education, the outlook is positive; the six-year graduation rate for New Mexico is above 40%.
Learn more about online distance education opportunities in the state of New Mexico by perusing our comprehensive database which indexes each state's top online programs, degrees and courses. You can also use the State Facts page to compare New Mexico to other US higher education options.
Featured Online Programs
33 Colleges in New Mexico
Additional Resources
Official State Links
- New Mexico Higher Education Department
- Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education
- New Mexico Public Education Department
College Savings
- The Education Plan: This state 529 college savings program has a range of investment options, all of which allow families to put away money early for a child's college education later. Enrollees enjoy tax benefits and can choose between Age Based and Custom Choice portfolios.
- Scholar's Edge: Another state 529 plan, this is run by the same organization as The Education Plan: Oppenheimer Funds. However, Scholar's Edge is a somewhat simplified version of the 529 plan and is meant for students and families who want to set up a savings plan quickly and easily as part of a larger college saving strategy.
Education Nonprofits
- GEAR UP New Mexico: The state branch of this national organization works with 25 public middle and high schools around New Mexico in order to help students start thinking about and planning for college. The organization's goals are to increase students' and families' understanding of higher education, to increase the number of students able to attend postsecondary institutions, and to prepare students to succeed after high school.
- Native American Student Advocacy Institute: This nonprofit, affiliated with the College Board, aims to support indigenous and Native American students in their path toward college. They host workshops and seminars and help students navigate the terrain between their tribal connections and life at a postsecondary institution.
Higher Education News
- New Mexico Department of Higher Education Events and News: While not a traditional news site, the New Mexico agency in charge of higher education maintains a list of events and information related to the state's colleges and universities.
- Education Week New Mexico: A nationally recognized publication, EdWeek filters its news by state, allowing readers to focus on trends and articles related to higher education in New Mexico.