Best
Value Colleges in Nebraska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nebraska gives students preparation for careers across industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, economics, management, business law, and operations. Students build communication, analytical, and leadership skills through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles such as financial analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or business consultant. Colleges offering these programs include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Bellevue University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nebraska offers students a foundation in human behavior, mental processes, and research. Typical courses include developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, statistics, cognition, social psychology, and research methods. Graduates may pursue work in human resources, case management, community services, behavioral health support, or market research; some roles require graduate training or licensure. Popular Nebraska options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University, with varied programs.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nebraska combines learning with projects, preparing students to build software and solve problems. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students gain experience through internships and projects. Popular choices include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Creighton University. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or data analysts in business, government, and technology sectors.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nebraska combines learning with supervised practice and prepares students to support people across schools and communities. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and practicum. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney, and Creighton University. Graduates pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, rehabilitation counselor, or counselor, with licensure requirements varying by role.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Nebraska combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, mental health, and maternal-newborn care. Students build skills in patient safety, communication, and evidence-based care. Options include the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, and Nebraska Methodist College. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or health agencies.

Best Colleges in Nebraska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $20,193.0, compared with $40,961.0 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of $20,768.0.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 75.12% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 75.12%.
• Schools receive an average of 3,040.29 applicants, compared with 8,442.6 at top-10% schools. The median number of applicants is 633.0 for men and 614.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,104.88 on the SAT and 22.7 on the ACT. Average enrollment is 4,239.13 students, including averages of 326.8 men and 365.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.19%, compared with 67.0% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 46.0% for men and 55.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 12 offer associate's degrees, 24 offer bachelor's degrees, 21 offer master's degrees, and 9 offer doctor's degrees. There are 21 coeducational schools, while the number of schools for men and the number of schools for women are both 0.
• When comparing colleges, prospective students should weigh total cost and financial aid alongside graduation rates, admissions selectivity, available degree levels, and the enrollment environment. The figures show that the overall median cost is lower than at top-10% schools, while the top-10% schools have a higher average graduation rate; students should consider which of these factors best fits their priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Nebraska cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Nebraska is $21,694.54 per year, a useful, practical planning benchmark for an in-state student considering a degree. This is an annual estimate, not the price of an entire multi-year degree, so multiply by your expected years of attendance and check each college's current aid and fee details.

Separate reported averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $20,484.17
• Room and board: $11,709.50
• Books and supplies: $1,123.22

These figures do not reconcile with the reported total, so treat them as comparison points rather than adding them together; actual bills vary by institution, residency, housing choice, and financial aid.

For a Nebraska budget, compare net prices at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University, options for local students. Your final cost can feel much more manageable after grants, scholarships, and community-college transfer credits; request each school's estimate before committing for your own circumstances.

How long does it take to finish college in Nebraska?

Most bachelor's degrees in Nebraska take about four years of full-time study, while associate degrees commonly take two. Your timeline may shift with major requirements or course availability. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, UNO, or Creighton, ask an adviser to map requirements.

Finishing sooner may be possible through:

• Use AP or dual-enrollment credits, summer classes, or heavier course loads.
• Transfer approved credits; check how they apply before enrolling, since not every class replaces a requirement. A plan can save time and tuition.

Graduation data show an average graduation rate of 52.19%, meaning completion is not automatic and many students need support or extra time. The average reaches 67% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 42.45% for men and 57.33% for women. These figures offer context, not a prediction for any student. Tutoring, advising, and scheduling can help you stay on track and feel confident as you work toward graduation.

Salary

College graduates in Nebraska earn a median alumni salary of $48,287. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $77,763.50 - a promising benchmark, though your own earnings can vary by field, experience, and employer.

If you're considering the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University, use these figures as statewide context rather than a salary guarantee for any one school or major. Your degree can be a strong step toward building a rewarding career in Nebraska.

People also ask

What college in Nebraska has the lowest tuition?

Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis is often among the state's lowest-tuition public colleges. The exact cheapest option depends on whether you're comparing tuition alone or total costs, and on your residency and program. Check current rates and fees directly before deciding; community-college costs can also vary by district.

What are Tier 1 schools in Nebraska?

"Tier 1" is commonly used to mean a university with the Carnegie R1 designation for very high research activity. In Nebraska, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Medical Center hold R1 status. That research strength can be exciting if you're interested in research opportunities, graduate study, or working alongside faculty on research projects.

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

For a Nebraska student comparing options, York University is the out-of-state choice in this group: it is based in Toronto, Canada, rather than Nebraska. The supplied figures list 532 enrolled students, a 52% graduation rate, and a 52% acceptance rate. Estimated total study cost is $22,500, while median alumni salary is $32,522. York offers a broad university setting; check program availability, visa requirements, and the full international-student budget before choosing it over local Nebraska campuses and support options for residents.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a public research university in the state capital, making it an in-state option for Nebraska residents. It reports 24,371 enrolled students, a 67% graduation rate, and an 87% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $26,400, and median alumni salary is $48,006. Its large campus offers a wide range of academic pathways and student activities. Compare tuition eligibility, housing, and program-specific expenses with your circumstances, since the total may not reflect every student's final bill.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is a public urban university in Nebraska's largest city, offering an in-state setting with access to metropolitan internships and services. Source figures show 15,681 students, a 47% graduation rate, and an 87% acceptance rate. Total study cost is listed at $21,246, and median alumni salary is $46,939. Its relatively accessible admission rate may interest students exploring a broad range of fields. Nebraska residents should confirm residency-based tuition, housing, and their intended program's costs.

Creighton University is a private Jesuit university in Omaha, giving Nebraska students a city-based campus and a faith-informed educational environment. It lists 9,178 enrolled students, an 83% graduation rate, and an 80% acceptance rate. The stated total study cost is $46,800, the highest among these five entries, while median alumni salary is $67,485. Students considering its smaller scale and strong campus community should compare financial aid, program-specific fees, and net price carefully, especially against public Nebraska options for your budget.

University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) is Nebraska's academic health science center in Omaha, a focused choice for students pursuing health professions and biomedical fields. It reports 3,991 enrolled students, with graduation and acceptance rates unavailable in the supplied data. Listed total study cost is $34,405, and median alumni salary is $78,020, the highest figure among these five schools. Nebraska applicants should investigate program prerequisites, clinical training arrangements, and aid, since costs and outcomes can differ substantially by degree program.