Best
Private Colleges in Nebraska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nebraska combines practical management skills with regional business perspectives. Courses typically include accounting, economics, finance, marketing, business law, organizational behavior, operations, and strategic management. Programs may offer internships with local employers and opportunities to specialize. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or entrepreneur. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Bellevue University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nebraska offers pathways to understand behavior through coursework in developmental psychology, cognition, statistics, research methods, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Students attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, or Nebraska Wesleyan University. Programs combine learning with research or field experience. A bachelor's degree can support roles such as case manager, human resources assistant, behavioral health technician, or research assistant; clinical psychologist positions generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nebraska combines programming fundamentals with practical problem-solving and access to growing technology employers across the state. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often build projects, collaborate in teams, and pursue internships. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Graduates commonly become software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, or cybersecurity specialists.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Nebraska prepares students to support people through evidence-based care. Coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum. Options include the University of Nebraska-Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Creighton University, and Wayne State College. Graduates pursue licensure and careers as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, rehabilitation counselors, or community agency case managers. Program requirements and licensure pathways vary considerably by degree and state regulations.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nebraska combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and community health. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health, with opportunities to specialize or pursue advanced study. Popular choices include the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, Nebraska Methodist College, Clarkson College, and Bryan College of Health Sciences.

Best Colleges in Nebraska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 23,505.0, compared with 41,712.0 at schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 72.23% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.23%. Schools receive an average of 1,379.64 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 2,538.1. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 304.5 and 505.5, respectively.
• Average test scores are 1,099.67 on the SAT and 22.57 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,594.93; average enrollment is 114.58 men and 135.08 women.
• The average graduation rate is 54.43%, compared with 68.8% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 43.0% for men and 59.0% for women.
• Eleven institutions offer associate's degrees, 16 offer bachelor's degrees, 14 offer master's degrees, and 6 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 13 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare the cost and financial aid available, and consider how acceptance rates, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes fit your priorities. The higher top-10 graduation rate and cost, alongside its lower average financial-aid percentage, illustrate why it is useful to weigh outcomes against affordability.

How much does studying at a college in Nebraska cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Nebraska is $25,143. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed full-degree bill: costs depend on the school and how many years you attend. Students often consider the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Creighton University.

• Average tuition and fees: $26,560.31
• Average room and board: $11,340.64
• Average books and supplies: $1,159

These averages do not add up to the reported total, so verify your college's current cost estimate. Nebraska students can make planning more manageable by comparing living at home with campus housing, asking about scholarships and grants, and checking whether books can be rented or bought used. At UNL, UNO, or Creighton, contact the financial aid office for an individualized estimate. With a clear budget, you can plan confidently and focus on choosing a Nebraska program that fits your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years, while an associate degree commonly takes two. A master's usually adds one or two years after a bachelor's. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and study pace.

Graduation rates provide a broad completion snapshot: Nebraska's average is 54.43%, compared with 68.8% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 42.85% for men and 58.93% for women. Since no timeframe is specified, these figures do not say how many finish in four years; still, steady advising and support can help you stay on track.

• Earn accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits to cover requirements sooner where possible.
• Ask advisers about transfer credits, summer classes, accelerated terms, and a sensible course sequence; a carefully planned extra class may shorten your route while keeping your workload realistic.

Salary

College graduates in Nebraska earn a median alumni salary of about $52,499. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of approximately $77,471, showing the potential for higher earnings depending on the school and career path.

In Nebraska, you might study at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, or Nebraska Wesleyan University. Your eventual salary can vary based on your field, experience, and location, so it's worth comparing programs and career outcomes as you decide where to study.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Nebraska?

There's no objective winner, but the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a lovely choice if you enjoy a classic campus atmosphere. Its tree-lined paths, historic buildings, and open green spaces make it pleasant to explore between classes. The best fit is personal, so visiting in person can help you find the campus that feels like home.

What is the most selective college in Nebraska?

By reported undergraduate acceptance rates, Nebraska Methodist College is a strong candidate for one of the state's most selective colleges; exact rankings can change by year and by which schools are compared. Its health-focused programs may also have program-specific requirements, so check the admissions criteria for your intended major rather than relying on the overall acceptance rate alone.

What is the richest university in Nebraska?

Using endowment resources as the measure, the University of Nebraska is the strongest answer. Its endowment is managed through the University of Nebraska Foundation and supports the university system's campuses, research, scholarships, and other priorities. That scale can matter to students through institutional resources, though it doesn't by itself determine the aid any individual student receives.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Nebraska Ranking in 2026-2027

York University offers a small campus experience in York, Nebraska, with 532 enrolled students in the supplied data. Its graduation rate is 52%, and its acceptance rate is 52%. The reported total cost of studying is $22,500, while the median alumni salary is $32,522. Students considering Nebraska can weigh this close-knit setting and comparatively lower listed cost against their academic goals, available programs, financial aid, and preferred campus environment before deciding whether it fits their plans for earning a degree locally.

Creighton University, in Omaha, is a Jesuit university known for professional education and a sizable campus community. The supplied figures list 9,178 enrolled students, an 83% graduation rate, and an 80% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost is $46,800, and median alumni salary is $67,485. For Nebraska students, Omaha offers an in-state urban setting with access to internships and community opportunities; compare program costs and aid carefully when planning a degree and future career in the region after graduation.

Hastings College is a private liberal arts college in Hastings, Nebraska, with a residential campus and a broad undergraduate focus. The data report 959 enrolled students, a 49% graduation rate, and a 72% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost of studying is $35,990, while median alumni salary is $42,415. Staying in Nebraska may appeal to students seeking a smaller college community; review majors, campus services, financial aid, and outcomes to judge how well Hastings supports your degree and career plans.

Bryan College of Health Sciences, based in Lincoln, focuses on health professions and career-oriented education. Its enrollment is 765, with a 70% graduation rate and 67% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $19,140, the lowest among these five schools; its median alumni salary is $78,567, the highest listed. Nebraska students interested in healthcare can consider its Lincoln location and specialized focus, while verifying program availability, clinical requirements, aid, and the meaning of the listed cost for their chosen degree.

Nebraska Wesleyan University is a private liberal arts university in Lincoln, offering students a campus experience in the state capital. The source lists 1,562 enrolled students, a 66% graduation rate, and an 80% acceptance rate. Its reported total cost of studying is $42,274, and median alumni salary is $44,275. For Nebraska residents, Lincoln can provide local cultural and career connections; compare degree options, financial aid, and outcomes to see whether the university's academic environment and location suit your educational plans.