Most
Affordable Colleges in Nebraska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nebraska combines practical business skills with industry perspectives. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and organizational behavior. Programs may offer internships with local employers and concentrations in entrepreneurship or supply chain management. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Bellevue University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Graduates pursue jobs as marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, or operations managers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nebraska offers opportunities at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Courses cover research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, personality, and mental disorders. Students build assessment, communication, and data-analysis skills through coursework, research, and internships. Graduates with bachelor's degrees often pursue human services, case management, behavioral health support, or recruiting roles; advanced graduate study can lead to counseling or clinical psychology careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nebraska combines foundational theory with practical projects and access to growing technology employers across the state. Courses commonly include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants. Popular study options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Nebraska Wesleyan University, and Bellevue University, with computer science programs.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nebraska combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and research with supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in school, clinical mental health, or rehabilitation counseling. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Creighton University, and Wayne State College. Graduates pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, rehabilitation counselors, college advisors, or behavioral health case managers, depending on credentials.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Nebraska combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and nursing ethics. Graduates may qualify for registered nurse roles after meeting licensing requirements, working in hospitals, clinics, care facilities, or public health. Nebraska schools offering nursing programs include the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, Nebraska Methodist College, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Best Colleges in Nebraska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $20,193, compared with $40,961 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $20,768.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 75.12% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 75.12%. Schools receive an average of 3,040.29 applicants, while top-10% schools receive 8,442.6 on average. The median number of male applicants is 633, compared with 614 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,104.88 on the SAT and 22.7 on the ACT.
• Schools enroll an average of 4,239.13 students, including an average of 326.8 men and 365.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.19%, compared with 67% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 46% for men and 55% for women.
• Among the institutions counted, 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, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial-aid availability, and consider how admissions selectivity, degree offerings, enrollment, test scores, and graduation rates align with your needs. The figures show that affordability and outcomes can differ across schools, so weigh them together when deciding where to apply.

How much does studying at a college in Nebraska cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Nebraska is $21,694.54. This is a useful planning benchmark, but it is not necessarily the full price of a multi-year degree: your overall expense depends on how long you study and which college you attend. Popular choices include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska community colleges. Comparing current cost estimates can help you find a campus that suits your goals and budget.

• Average total cost: $21,694.54
• Average tuition and fees: $20,484.17
• Average room and board: $11,709.50
• Average books and supplies: $1,123.22

These are separate reported averages, so do not add them together as though they were one bill. Tuition is a major budget item, while housing and course materials can vary with your living arrangements and classes. Check each campus's latest estimate and ask about scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Comparing your options can make costs feel more manageable and help you plan confidently for a Nebraska degree.

How long does it take to finish college in Nebraska?

Most bachelor's degrees in Nebraska take about four years of full-time study; an associate's degree typically takes about two. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, work, and family commitments. Some students need extra terms, so meet with an adviser and check degree requirements early. Full-time enrollment is the usual four-year benchmark for a bachelor's degree. The reported average graduation rate is 52.19%; for the top 10% of schools, the average is 67%. The reported rates are 42.45% for men and 57.33% for women. These figures show that finishing takes planning, but support and a clear course plan can help you make progress toward your goal. You may also be able to complete your degree sooner by:

• Taking summer courses or approved online classes to earn credits between semesters.
• Bringing in eligible AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits after confirming they meet your program's requirements.
• Asking about accelerated terms and mapping required courses early; a manageable extra class may move graduation closer.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Nebraska have a median alumni salary of $48,287. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is $77,763.50 - a promising benchmark as you consider your options.

Your own earnings can vary by field, experience, and employer. Whether you study at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, or Creighton University, comparing programs and career pathways can help you find a degree that fits your goals.

People also ask

What college in Nebraska has the lowest tuition?

Nebraska Indian Community College is often listed among Nebraska's lowest-tuition colleges and may be the least expensive, especially for students paying resident rates. The exact ranking depends on the academic year, residency, and whether you compare tuition alone or total costs such as fees, books, and housing. Check the college's current rate schedule before deciding.

What college in Nebraska has the lowest GPA requirement?

For general admission, Metropolitan Community College is an open-admissions institution, so applicants generally do not need to meet a minimum high-school GPA. That can make it a welcoming place to start or return to college. Some programs may have additional entry requirements, so confirm the rules for your intended course of study.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Nebraska Ranking in 2026-2027

For a Nebraska student seeking a broad public-university experience, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln enrolls 24,371 students and reports a 67% graduation rate. Its 87% acceptance rate may make it an accessible option, while estimated total study costs are $26,400. Median alumni salary is $48,006, offering one outcome measure for comparing programs. Lincoln provides a large-campus setting with diverse academic opportunities, research, and student activities. Consider your intended major, aid eligibility, and living costs when evaluating its overall value in Nebraska.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha enrolls 15,681 students, with a 47% graduation rate and an 87% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $21,246, lower than Lincoln's figure, and median alumni salary is $46,939. Omaha offers an urban Nebraska setting, potentially appealing if you value city amenities alongside university study. Compare available majors, campus services, financial aid, and commuting or housing expenses, since individual costs and outcomes can vary by program, personal circumstances, and career goals locally.

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, 5,699 students attend a campus with a reported 58% graduation rate and 89% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $14,610, the lowest among these five schools. Median alumni salary is $42,631. Kearney's Nebraska location may suit students who prefer a smaller university community over a major city. Review program offerings, scholarships, housing, and transportation options to estimate your real expenses and determine whether this campus fits your academic and career goals, too.

The University of Nebraska Medical Center enrolls 3,991 students and is a health-sciences-focused institution in Omaha. The supplied data lists total study costs of $34,405 and median alumni salary of $78,020, the highest salary among these five schools. Graduation and acceptance rates are not available, so compare program-specific admissions information directly. For Nebraska students pursuing health professions, its specialized setting may be relevant; investigate prerequisites, clinical opportunities, financial aid, and the full cost of your chosen degree before applying carefully.

York University is the smallest institution listed, with 532 enrolled students and a 52% acceptance rate. Its 52% graduation rate and $22,500 total study cost provide useful comparison points for Nebraska students considering a smaller campus. Median alumni salary is $32,522, though outcomes vary by field and individual choices. Located in York, Nebraska, the university offers a close-knit setting; explore its academic programs, student support, financial aid, and housing costs to judge whether it matches your degree plans and priorities.