Best
Private Colleges in Omaha in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Omaha, Nebraska combines coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Students often develop skills through case studies, internships, and team projects. Popular options include the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and College of Saint Mary. Graduates commonly pursue careers as business analysts, marketing coordinators, financial associates, human resources specialists, or operations managers in diverse local businesses, nonprofits, government, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Omaha, NE offers coursework in developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and neuroscience. Students explore human behavior through experiments, discussions, and internships. Popular local options include the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University, both offering psychology programs. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or human resources specialist. Advanced clinical or counseling positions generally require graduate study and appropriate licensure afterward.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Omaha, Nebraska, combines programming foundations with practical projects and opportunities to connect with local employers. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity specialist, database administrator, or IT support roles. Popular local options include the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Metropolitan Community College, which offers computing pathways and transfer opportunities toward bachelor's study.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Omaha, Nebraska, combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. The University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University offer relevant graduate study. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, career counselor, or substance use counselor, depending on degree level, state licensure, and employer requirements. Programs develop practical skills for supporting clients across Omaha.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Omaha, Nebraska offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced practice. Programs typically cover anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, community health, and supervised clinical care. Graduates may work as registered nurses, nurse educators, care coordinators, or, with further study, nurse practitioners and clinical specialists. Omaha options include Creighton University, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Clarkson College, and Nebraska Methodist College, each offering nursing-related education and clinical learning.

Best Colleges in Omaha, NE Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 16,868.5, compared with 35,655.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top-ranked group substantially more expensive.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, versus 69.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 69.0%. Schools receive an average of 1,733.6 applicants, while top-10% schools average 4,957.4. The median number of applicants is 5.0 men and 162.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,250.0 on the SAT and 28.0 on the ACT.
• Schools enroll an average of 2,441.2 students, including averages of 159.33 men and 208.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 62.75%, compared with 76.4% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 80.0% for men and 59.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, six offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are three coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial-aid availability, and consider how admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment size, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and campus composition align with your needs. The higher graduation rate among top-10% schools may be worth weighing against their higher median cost and lower average financial-aid coverage.

How much does studying at a college in Omaha, NE cost?

The average total cost of studying in Omaha, NE, is $18,907.83. Treat this as a planning benchmark: your actual degree cost will vary with your college and program.

The figures also report average tuition and fees of $20,444, room and board of $11,784.80, and books and supplies of $1,368.80. Because these listed components do not align with the stated total, confirm current costs with your chosen school before budgeting.

In Omaha, you can compare options such as the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Metropolitan Community College. Their programs and campus settings differ, so exploring several can help you find a fit that feels both exciting and financially manageable.

For a realistic budget, look beyond tuition: ask about aid, scholarships, commuting costs, and whether living at home or sharing housing could reduce expenses. Starting with clear numbers can make pursuing a degree in your hometown feel much more achievable.

How long does it take to finish college in Omaha, NE?

In Omaha, earning a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree generally takes two. At the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) or Creighton University, your exact timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Omaha students balancing work or family may need additional semesters, and that's a normal route - not a setback.

Potential ways to finish sooner include bringing in accepted AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible college credits, taking summer courses, or choosing an accelerated program when available. Meet an academic adviser early to map prerequisites and avoid courses that delay graduation; verify transfer rules before paying for credits elsewhere. Graduation data offer a useful perspective: the average graduation rate is 62.75%, while the top 10% of schools average 76.4%. The reported rates are 53.67% for men and 64.25% for women. These figures can help set expectations as you plan.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Omaha, NE, have a median alumni salary of about $71,951. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is approximately $77,340. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you consider local options such as the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University; your own earnings will also depend on your degree, career field, experience, and employer.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Omaha?

Beauty is subjective, but Creighton University is a lovely place to start. Its leafy campus near downtown features historic brick buildings, landscaped walkways, and peaceful outdoor spaces such as the Jesuit Gardens. The mix of collegiate charm and city energy can make walking to class feel especially inviting.

What is the most selective college in Omaha?

Among Omaha's major four-year colleges, Creighton University is generally one of the more selective options. Admissions selectivity can shift from year to year, and acceptance rates don't capture the whole picture, so compare your academic profile with Creighton's current admissions information. If you're considering health sciences, business, or other programs, check each program's requirements too.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Omaha, NE Ranking in 2026-2027

Creighton University is a private Jesuit university in Omaha, offering a broad academic community for students seeking a degree close to the city's health-care and business hubs. It enrolls 9,178 students, with an 83% graduation rate and an 80% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $46,800, while median alumni salary is $67,485. For an Omaha-based student, attending locally can make campus access and city connections convenient; compare program fit, financial aid, expenses, and housing before choosing a suitable program.

Clarkson College is a small, health-focused institution in Omaha, suited to students pursuing nursing, allied health, and related professional fields. Its enrollment is 1,121, with a 47% graduation rate and 78% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of studying is $16,104, and median alumni salary is $77,735. For someone already based in Omaha, its local setting may simplify commuting and provide proximity to area clinical employers; check specific program requirements, placement options, and financial aid before applying and comparing options.

College of Saint Mary is a private Catholic university in Omaha with a women-centered educational tradition and programs across several fields. It enrolls 786 students, and its reported graduation rate is 61%, with a 45% acceptance rate. Total study cost is listed as $24,510; median alumni salary is $60,528. Omaha residents can consider the campus without leaving the metro area, while weighing academic offerings, campus culture, and commute options. Ask admissions about current costs, aid, and program-specific outcomes before deciding.

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health is an Omaha-based college specializing in nursing and allied health education. Its 1,092 students experience a reported 60% graduation rate and 73% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $17,633, and median alumni salary is $76,417. For prospective students living in Omaha, the location may support convenient commuting and connection to local health-care settings. Compare degree pathways, clinical experiences, aid availability, and personal expenses to assess the overall fit before enrolling.

CHI Health School of Radiologic Technology is a small, specialized Omaha training program for students interested in diagnostic imaging careers. It reports 29 enrolled students and a total study cost of $8,400; graduation rate, acceptance rate, and median alumni salary are not available in the supplied figures. Its Omaha location may suit residents seeking a focused local option. Contact the school to confirm credential details, clinical training, admissions criteria, and personal expenses, then compare its offerings with your career goals.