Best Universities & Colleges in Nebraska
Nebraska, located in the heart of the United States, is home to a range of distinguished higher education institutions, each with its own unique strengths and contributions to the academic landscape.
Below are some of the best universities and colleges in Nebraska:
1. Concordia University Nebraska
Concordia University Nebraska, a private Christian institution located in Seward, Nebraska, is recognized for its academic rigor and commitment to holistic education. It is ranked in the top tier of the Midwest Regional Colleges category by U.S. News & World Report, a reflection of the university's strong academic programs and community engagement. Concordia offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including programs in education, business, and the arts. As a Lutheran institution, Concordia is particularly known for its strong emphasis on faith-based learning, integrating religious studies and Christian values into its academic curriculum. The university also prides itself on a close-knit community, with a student-to-faculty ratio that ensures personalized attention for each student.
The institution’s athletic programs, particularly in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), also stand out. Concordia's commitment to developing students both academically and athletically has contributed to its strong reputation in the region. Its devotion to providing a liberal arts education combined with a Christian worldview makes it a unique option for students seeking a values-based college experience.
2. Creighton University
Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton University is a private Catholic institution renowned for its dedication to community service and leadership in health sciences. The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in the region and has earned a spot in the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll with Distinction for its exemplary efforts in service, especially its outreach to disadvantaged youth. This distinction highlights Creighton's commitment to developing students who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible.
Creighton offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including strong faculties in law, health sciences, business, and the arts. Its medical school, dental school, and nursing school are particularly notable, with students frequently going on to top positions in healthcare. The university's Jesuit roots inform its approach to education, emphasizing values such as social justice, ethical leadership, and community service.
Creighton’s extensive network of alumni in healthcare, law, business, and other sectors provides students with ample opportunities for internships, mentorship, and career advancement. This blend of academic excellence and commitment to societal good has made Creighton a prominent name in Nebraska’s higher education landscape.
3. Bellevue University
Bellevue University, located just south of Omaha, is particularly recognized for its strong programs in business and its leadership in online education. The university offers the largest MBA programs in Nebraska and has a notable focus on providing education to working adults and military service members. Bellevue’s College of Business is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), ensuring that its business programs meet rigorous academic standards and provide students with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s global economy.
In addition to its strong business programs, Bellevue offers a range of degrees in fields such as IT, healthcare, and social sciences. The university is committed to offering flexible learning opportunities, with a strong emphasis on online education that allows students to balance their academic pursuits with work and family obligations. Bellevue's commitment to adult education has made it a leader in Nebraska for non-traditional students, providing a high-quality education that is accessible and convenient for busy individuals.
4. University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL)
As the flagship institution of the University of Nebraska System, UNL is one of the most prestigious universities in the state and consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States. UNL is known for its research output, diverse academic offerings, and vibrant campus life. It has earned a place among the world’s top 40 distance learning and online MBA providers, as ranked by Financial Times, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in higher education.
UNL offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, with strengths in areas such as agriculture, engineering, business, and education. The university’s research initiatives are particularly strong, especially in areas related to agricultural sciences, engineering, and the environment. UNL is also home to several interdisciplinary centers and institutes that focus on solving global challenges, including the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research and the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery.
Additionally, UNL’s vibrant campus offers numerous student organizations, a rich athletic tradition, and diverse cultural experiences, making it an attractive option for students seeking a comprehensive, dynamic college experience.
5. Nebraska Wesleyan University
Nebraska Wesleyan University, located in Lincoln, is known for its strong liberal arts programs and high academic standards. The university is considered one of the best institutions of its kind in the Midwest and has been continuously accredited since 1914, a testament to its long-standing commitment to academic excellence. Nebraska Wesleyan offers a variety of undergraduate programs in areas such as the humanities, sciences, social sciences, and business, with an emphasis on preparing students for both professional careers and graduate school.
One of the defining features of Nebraska Wesleyan is its student-centered approach to education, which emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of lifelong learning skills. The university's strong ties to the local community provide students with opportunities for internships, service learning, and civic engagement.
6. University of Nebraska Kearney (UNK)
UNK is recognized as one of the top universities in the Midwest, offering a wide range of academic programs and a strong focus on undergraduate education. UNK’s commitment to providing personalized education is evident in its small class sizes and close student-faculty relationships. The university is particularly strong in education, business, health sciences, and the liberal arts.
UNK is also known for its innovative programs that prepare students for exciting careers. With a focus on hands-on learning, UNK offers students opportunities for internships, research projects, and field experiences that help them build valuable skills for the workforce. The university’s affordable tuition rates and high graduate employment rates make it a top choice for students seeking a quality education at a reasonable price.
7. University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO)
UNO is a dynamic institution known for its commitment to civic engagement and community service. UNO was recognized in 2009 with an Honorable Mention by the Washington Center’s Higher Education Civic Engagement Award for its extraordinary efforts in community involvement and service learning. UNO offers a diverse array of academic programs, including strong schools in business, public administration, education, and the arts.
UNO’s location in Omaha provides students with access to a growing metropolitan area, offering opportunities for internships, networking, and career advancement in a variety of fields. The university’s research initiatives are also noteworthy, particularly in areas related to urban affairs and public policy. UNO is a strong option for students seeking an institution that emphasizes both academic excellence and social responsibility.
8. Chadron State College
Located in the western part of the state, Chadron State College is a public institution known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. The college has been selected as one of 12 founding institutions for the Foundations of Excellence in the First College Year national project, a recognition of its efforts to support first-year students and ensure their successful transition to higher education.
Chadron State College offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including education, business, and the humanities. The college is also known for its commitment to providing affordable education and creating a supportive campus community. Chadron’s rural setting and close-knit atmosphere provide students with a unique and personalized educational experience.
9. College of Saint Mary
The College of Saint Mary, located in Omaha, is a private Catholic institution that primarily serves women, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. One of the college's distinctive features is its strong focus on teacher education, with approval from the Nebraska Department of Education to offer teacher certification in both elementary and secondary education. The college also has robust programs in healthcare, business, and the liberal arts.
As a women’s college, the College of Saint Mary fosters an empowering environment that encourages leadership, academic achievement, and personal growth. The college’s commitment to academic excellence and its supportive community make it a leading institution for women in the region.
10. Doane College
Doane College, located in Crete, Nebraska, is known for its strong commitment to research, sustainability, and community engagement. The college’s Aldrich Prairie Research Site has received the Conservation Education Award from the Nebraska Wildlife Federation, recognizing its efforts in environmental education and preservation. Doane offers a broad range of academic programs, including strong offerings in education, business, and the sciences.
Doane’s liberal arts approach encourages students to explore various fields of study while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The college’s commitment to sustainability and its strong ties to the local community provide students with opportunities for hands-on learning and engagement in important social issues.
11. Union College
Union College, a private institution located in Lincoln, is consistently rated as a top-tier college in its regional category by U.S. News & World Report. One of Union's most impressive achievements is its pre-med program, with 100% of its pre-med graduates from 2008 being accepted into medical school. This success rate speaks to the college’s strong academic foundation, especially in the sciences, and its personalized approach to preparing students for competitive professional programs.
Union College’s emphasis on small class sizes and individualized attention allows students to develop close relationships with their professors and receive tailored support throughout their academic careers. The college’s strong commitment to the health sciences and its close ties to local healthcare providers make it an excellent choice for students pursuing careers in medicine and related fields.
12. Wayne State College
Wayne State College, located in the northeast part of Nebraska, is a public institution that is recognized for its strong business programs and its role in providing high-quality education to students from a wide range of backgrounds. In 2010, the college was named one of 11 new regionally accredited business schools to be added to GetEducated.com’s Best Online MBA rankings.
Wayne State College offers a variety of undergraduate programs, with notable strengths in business, education, and the sciences. The college’s focus on practical, career-oriented education ensures that students graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. Wayne State’s welcoming campus environment and its commitment to providing an affordable education make it a popular choice for students in Nebraska and beyond.
