Best
Public Colleges in Nebraska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nebraska combines business skills with industry perspectives. Typical courses include accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, organizational behavior, data analytics, and entrepreneurship. Programs offer internships and projects with employers. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or sales representative. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Bellevue University, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Psychology

Psychology programs in Nebraska examine human behavior, mental processes, and wellbeing. Typical coursework includes introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, and counseling. Students can pursue programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Nebraska Wesleyan University, and Bellevue University. Graduates work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, research assistants, or social service workers; many clinical roles require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nebraska combines foundational theory with practical projects and access to a growing technology sector. Courses commonly include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students can explore programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT project managers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nebraska can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and clinical skills. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance use counselors. Nebraska options include the University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Creighton University, and Bellevue University, with counseling programs.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nebraska combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals. Students also study maternal-child care, mental health, and medical-surgical nursing. Popular options include University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, Nebraska Methodist College, University of Nebraska at Kearney, and Chadron State College. Graduates may become registered nurses working in acute care, clinics, public health, or long-term care.

Best Colleges in Nebraska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 10,245.0, compared with 28,801.5 at schools in the top 10%, making the top group substantially more expensive.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 99.4% of students across the schools, versus 87.67% at schools in the top 10%. The overall average acceptance rate is also 87.67%.
• Schools receive an average of 10,790.0 applicants, compared with 16,122.0 at schools in the top 10%. The median number of applicants is 3,869.0 for men and 5,340.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,120.5 on the SAT and 23.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 7,322.0, including averages of 1,175.67 men and 1,362.67 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.71%, compared with 61.6% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 50.0% for men and 51.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 1 offers associate's degrees, 8 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 3 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 8 coeducational schools.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with the availability of financial aid, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates align with your needs. The higher costs and graduation rates reported for top-10% schools may be important to weigh against their lower average financial-aid reach.

How much does studying at a college in Nebraska cost?

In Nebraska, the average total cost of studying is about $14,798. Average tuition and fees are $8,332, while books and supplies add about $998. Housing and meals can be part of your budget: the average room and board cost is $12,570, so compare campus housing with renting nearby and consider how your living choices affect spending. These statewide figures are averages, not guaranteed bills, and may not describe the same student's expenses. Your actual costs depend on your college, program, residency, and whether you live at home. For example, students considering the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University should check each school's cost estimate and financial aid options. Scholarships, grants, and work-study may reduce what you pay out of pocket, making a Nebraska education feel more manageable. Build a budget for tuition, housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses before enrolling, then revisit it each year as costs and aid change.

How long does it take to finish college in Nebraska?

Most full-time students in Nebraska need about four years to complete a bachelor's degree; an associate degree generally takes two. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or the University of Nebraska at Omaha, your timeline depends on course load, major requirements, and whether you study year-round. Part-time study or changing majors can add time, while early planning can help you keep moving steadily toward graduation.

Across Nebraska colleges, the average graduation rate is 47.71%. The average is 61.6% for schools in the top 10% and 41.71% for men compared with 54.14% for women. These figures show that graduation outcomes vary, and finding the right academic and personal support can make a real difference.

• Bring eligible AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits with you to reduce the courses you still need.
• Ask admissions advisers about transfer credits and accelerated or year-round course schedules.
• Taking summer classes can help you complete requirements sooner, if they fit your budget and workload.

Salary

College graduates in Nebraska have a reported median alumni salary of $44,590. At schools ranked among the top 10% in the data, the median alumni salary is $60,011.60 - a difference of about $15,422.

You can pursue a degree at Nebraska institutions such as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University. These figures are overall medians, not guaranteed starting salaries; your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Nebraska?

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is often the clearest answer if you mean broad name recognition: it is Nebraska's flagship public university and a major research institution. Prestige depends on your field, though. Creighton University is also highly regarded, particularly by students considering a private university. Visiting both can help you find the right fit.

Which city in Nebraska has the best public schools?

Elkhorn, a community within Omaha, is often a strong place to start your search. Elkhorn Public Schools is frequently regarded as a high-performing district, but "best" depends on the school, grade level, and what matters to your family. Compare current school-level data and programs, since district boundaries and rankings can change.

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

Located in Lincoln, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a major comprehensive university offering a wide range of academic pathways. For a Nebraska student, its figures show 24,371 enrolled students, a 67% graduation rate, and an 87% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $26,400, while median alumni salary is $48,006. These numbers offer useful points for comparing affordability, admission access, and outcomes as you consider pursuing a degree close to home in Nebraska and evaluating your long-term plans carefully.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha, based in Nebraska's largest city, offers an urban setting for students seeking a degree. Its enrollment is 15,681, with a 47% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of study is $21,246, and median alumni salary is $46,939. For Nebraska residents, these figures provide a starting point for weighing access, cost, and outcomes, while Omaha's city environment may appeal to students who value a campus experience connected to a metropolitan community.

The University of Nebraska Medical Center is a specialized health-sciences institution in Omaha, suited to students considering medical and related professional fields. It enrolls 3,991 students. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied figures, so compare admissions details directly with the school. Its listed total study cost is $34,405, and median alumni salary is $78,020. For Nebraska students, its academic setting and salary figure may be relevant when assessing degree options, costs, and career goals within the state.

Located in Kearney, the University of Nebraska at Kearney provides a university setting for students pursuing undergraduate and other degree pathways. The school enrolls 5,699 students, reports a 58% graduation rate, and has an 89% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $14,610, with median alumni salary of $42,631. For Nebraska students, these figures suggest an accessible option with comparatively low listed costs; consider how its programs, location, and campus environment fit your academic plans and preferred community locally.

Chadron State College is a college in western Nebraska, offering students a smaller-campus alternative for earning a degree. Its enrollment is 2,099, graduation rate is 50%, and the supplied data do not include an acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $5,880, and median alumni salary is $41,814. For Nebraska residents, the low reported cost may make it worth considering, especially if you prefer a close-knit college environment and want to study in a different part of the state.