ABOUT THE PROGRAM
In collaboration with the Sands Center for Professional Development in the Harrah College of Hospitality, UNLV Lifelong Learning is offering the Gaming Management Certificate that provides a comprehensive introduction to the operational, managerial, and social responsibility dimensions of the casino industry.
The program consists of three courses, Introduction to Gaming Management, Casino Management, and Casino Asset Protection. Together, these courses prepare learners to understand how modern gaming operations function, how casinos are managed, and how responsible gaming practices are integrated into business strategy.
Students who complete the full certificate will be eligible to apply 9 academic credit hours toward the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Gaming Management, creating a seamless bridge from non-credit professional education to a UNLV degree.
This Program is Perfect For
- Individuals seeking entry into the gaming and casino industry
- Current gaming and hospitality professionals hoping to advance into supervisory or management roles
- Employees transitioning into gaming operations, casino management, or regulatory roles
- Professionals interested in responsible gaming, compliance, and social responsibility
- Learners exploring a pathway into UNLV’s Hospitality Management degree programs
- Career changers seeking industry certificates in a high-impact sector
- Casino gaming enthusiasts interested in understanding casino math and operations
What You Will Learn
Through this certificate program, you will:
- Understand the structure, scope, and evolution of the global and U.S. gaming industry
- Gain a broad understanding of the mechanics, operations, and protocols for major revenue centers, including Slot Operations, Race & Sportsbooks, the Poker Room, and table games- such as Blackjack, Craps, Baccarat, and Roulette.
- Understand the critical role of compliance in gaming operations, including the functions of the Gaming Control Board, surveillance protocols, and federal Title 31 requirements.
- Examine the “why” behind casino management decisions, not just operational mechanics
- Acquire the skills to effectively identify the psychological signs of problem gambling and implement supportive, ethically-conscious strategies of intervention for affected individuals
- Apply responsible gaming strategies used by gaming organizations and regulators
- Gain industry-relevant knowledge aligned with academic and professional standards
- Differentiate between skilled play and illicit activity to ensure fair and legal game conduct
- Assess the efficacy of modern industry safeguards in protecting table and slot assets to inform future prevention strategies
Program Details
- Credential Earned: Gaming Management Certificate
- Total Courses: 3
- Credit Pathway: Eligible for 9 credit hours toward the BS in Hospitality Management (Gaming Management Concentration)
- Delivery Format: Online, Asynchronous
- Offered By: UNLV Lifelong Learning in collaboration with the Sands Center for Professional Development, UNLV Harrah College of Hospitality
- Contact Hours: 135, 13.5 CEUs
Required Courses
Gaming Management
This course introduces students to the core components of the casino industry. Students explore the history and evolution of casino gaming, with emphasis on Nevada and key international markets, while gaining exposure to major table games, slot operations, and electronic gaming. The course examines regulatory oversight, including the role of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, surveillance and game protection, Title 31 compliance, casino marketing, human resources, and foundational casino math. This introductory course prepares learners for the more advanced coursework in Casino Management.
Strategic Casino Operations
Focusing on the operational core of casino enterprises, this course examines how casinos are managed day-to-day. Topics include integrated resorts, slots, table games, casino cage procedures, sports book fundamentals, cash flow management, and performance metrics such as table game hold. Emphasis is placed on strategic decision-making and understanding why management practices matter.
Casino Asset Protection
Students examine common cheating methods and advantage play across major table games, including craps, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and poker. The course explores technical safeguards and industry-standard protection methods used in slot machines and on the gaming floor. Notable scams and casino fraud cases will be discussed. Students will gain practical insight into safeguarding casino assets and preparing for leadership roles in gaming operations.
Once you fulfill all certificate program requirements as outlined in the Academic Plan, you may request your certificate.