Best
Colleges in Nebraska in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nebraska combines core coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business communication, and data analysis. Students may gain practical experience through internships with local employers. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, Nebraska Wesleyan University, and Bellevue University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or financial analyst. Programs often offer concentrations and electives.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Nebraska introduces students to human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. Typical courses include developmental, cognitive, abnormal, social, and biological psychology, plus statistics and counseling fundamentals. Popular options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Graduates may pursue roles such as human services assistant, case manager, behavioral technician, research assistant, or, with advanced education and licensing, psychologist, counselor, or school psychologist.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nebraska combines theory and hands-on learning. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build projects, collaborate with peers, and may explore artificial intelligence or data science. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or data analysts. Popular Nebraska options include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and Nebraska Wesleyan University, among others.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nebraska combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Students complete supervised fieldwork or internships. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, career counselor, or substance-use counselor, depending on degree level and state licensure requirements. Nebraska options include the University of Nebraska-Omaha, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and Creighton University, with offerings varying by campus.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nebraska combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates of nursing degrees work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies; some pursue roles or further study. Well-known Nebraska nursing colleges include University of Nebraska Medical Center, Creighton University, Nebraska Methodist College, and Bryan College of Health Sciences.

Best Colleges in Nebraska Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,193, compared with 40,961 at schools in the top 10% - more than twice as high.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students 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, while those in the top 10% average 8,442.6 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 633, slightly higher than the median of 614 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,104.88 and 22.7, respectively.
• Schools average 4,239.13 enrolled students, including averages of 326.8 men and 365.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.19%, compared with 67% at top-10% schools. The median rate is 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 cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, available degree levels, and graduation outcomes. Consider how each school's student enrollment and average test scores align with your preferences, and compare overall figures with top-10% school statistics where relevant.

How much does studying at a college in Nebraska cost?

The average total cost of studying in Nebraska is $21,694.54, giving you a useful starting point as you plan for a degree close to home. Tuition and fees average $20,484.17, while housing, meals, and course materials add to the student budget. Your actual bill will depend on the school, program, living arrangements, and financial aid, so treat these statewide figures as a planning guide rather than a guaranteed price. For a clearer picture, compare costs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Creighton University, and community colleges across Nebraska. Ask each school's aid office about scholarships and grants, since available support can make your Nebraska degree more affordable. The right fit can make your goal feel achievable, especially when you weigh campus experience against affordability and support.

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

How long does it take to finish college in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your timeline at UNL, UNO, or Creighton varies with major requirements, course availability, work, and family responsibilities.

You may finish sooner by bringing in Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing a course load that fits your capacity. Ask an adviser early how credits apply to your specific degree, since requirements differ. A realistic plan can keep college manageable and rewarding when work or family needs change, too.

Graduation rates show completion: Nebraska's average graduation rate is 52.19%, rising to 67% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 42.45% for men and 57.33% for women. These figures show that completion can take persistence, but they do not predict your individual outcome; advising and a clear plan can help you stay on track.

Salary

College graduates in Nebraska earn a median alumni salary of about $48,287. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $77,764. These figures offer a useful sense of earning potential, though they are not guaranteed starting salaries; your pay can vary with your field, experience, and employer.

If you're comparing options in Nebraska, you might look at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Creighton University, or the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The salary figures above are not broken down by individual school, but they can help you set a broad earnings benchmark as you explore degree programs and career paths.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Nebraska?

By total student enrollment, the three largest are generally the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and Bellevue University. Enrollment figures change from year to year, and Bellevue's total includes many online students. For an in-person campus experience, Lincoln and Omaha offer large student communities and a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.

How many colleges are there in Nebraska?

Nebraska has about 30 colleges and universities, though the exact count depends on whether the source includes community-college campuses, specialized schools, and online institutions. The state offers public and private options, from community colleges to research universities. That variety can make it easier to find a school that fits your goals, location, and budget.

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

York University offers a smaller campus experience, with 532 enrolled students in the supplied figures. Its 52% graduation rate and 52% acceptance rate provide useful context when comparing academic outcomes and admission chances. The listed total cost of studying is $22,500, while median alumni salary is $32,522. For a Nebraska-based student, confirm the campus location and whether this option fits your goal of studying in Nebraska before weighing travel, housing, and residency details alongside its relatively compact enrollment and reported outcomes.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with 24,371 enrolled students, is Nebraska's large public flagship and offers broad academic and campus choices. Its 67% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate help frame expectations for admission and completion. The supplied total cost of studying is $26,400, and median alumni salary is $48,006. For a Nebraska student, Lincoln provides an in-state option; compare your program, residency-based charges, housing, and aid with the listed cost, since personal expenses and net price can differ substantially by program.

University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public university in Omaha, giving Nebraska residents an urban setting and access to opportunities. The supplied enrollment is 15,681, with a 47% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost of studying is $21,246, and median alumni salary is $46,939. For a Nebraska student, compare your intended major, commute or housing needs, financial aid, and residency-based net price; the figures offer a starting point, not a cost or outcome guarantee.

Creighton University is a private Jesuit university in Omaha, offering a campus-based option within Nebraska's largest city. The supplied enrollment is 9,178, with an 83% graduation rate and 80% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost of studying is $46,800, the highest among these five entries, while median alumni salary is $67,485. If you live in Nebraska, compare scholarships, aid, and your program's costs against the published figure; consider whether Omaha's location and Creighton's academic environment match your goals.

Hastings College is a private college in Hastings, Nebraska, offering an in-state option for students who prefer a smaller community. The supplied enrollment is 959, with a 49% graduation rate and 72% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost of studying is $35,990, and median alumni salary is $42,415. As a Nebraska student, consider how Hastings fits your preferred campus setting and intended field, then ask the college about financial aid, housing, and your likely net cost before making a decision.