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Nebraska is the 37thmost populous state in America yet ranked sixteenth largest in terms of land mass. The state is situated in the heartland surrounded by South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa. The state of Nebraska is home to more than 50 accredited colleges and universities throughout the state. State colleges are public schools that receive funds from the state to operate. Public universities in Nebraska include the University of Nebraska (Lincoln, Kearney, Omaha), Wayne State College, Peru State College, and Chadron State College. In terms of enrollment, the University of Nebraska state college system dwarfs the other public colleges yet all have robust academic programs for students to pursue.

2024 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska

University of Nebraska - Lincoln (UNL), is a top public research university that has pioneered many "firsts." It was one of the first institutions of higher learning west of the Mississippi River to grant doctoral degrees (the first it awarded was in 1896). UNL was also the first university to establish ecology as an academic discipline, and its campus is a perfect representation of nature, with beautiful arboreta and gardens. One of the earliest universities to celebrate the arts and literature, UNL gave birth to the literary magazine "Prairie Schooner." It also created foundations for the University of Nebraska Press and the Sheldon Museum of Art.

UNL has many well-funded research projects, led by faculty who are recognized scientists and scholars. In addition to its research and graduate programs, UNL is known for its excellent undergraduate programs. Some of these programs include the Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experience Program (UCARE), which connects research faculty to students for collaboration on independent study projects. Outstanding students who wish to develop leadership skills can enroll leadership programs in the Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management.

The entire undergraduate student body can participate in the Nebraska Colloquium, which involves the UNL academic community in an annual intellectual discourse on a topic of importance. This program provides a mechanism for activities and events in different academic units that contribute to the theme. Additionally, the University Honors Program hosts Honors Forum talks on world issues.

History

The University of Nebraska - Lincoln was established in 1869, and covered four city blocks. University Hall was the first campus building, which began to crumble by the time a second building was constructed in 1886. The conditions of the prairie were quite harsh, killing many of the trees and flowers that were planted on campus. In the 1890s, the university constructed its library from stronger materials that would withstand the elements of the prairie.

In 1873, the university established a nearby farm campus, and later an experimental research station in North Platte.  In 1902, the Medical College of Omaha merged with the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. In 1909, UNL was admitted to the Association of American Universities.  In 1906, John D. Rockefeller contributed funds for the construction of a student activity center, known as the Temple Building, among others.

Academics

The academic calendar for the UNL follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters.

Colleges and Schools

The colleges of the University of Nebraska - Lincoln include:

  • College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
  • College of Architecture
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business Administration
  • College of Education and Human Sciences
  • College of Engineering
  • The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts
  • College of Graduate Studies
  • College of Journalism and Mass Communications
  • College of Law 

UNL also offers programs through the UNO College of Public Affairs and Community Service, and the UNMC colleges of Nursing and Dentistry.

Student Life

More than 400 student clubs and organizations are offered at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. These organizations cover student interests ranging from academic or professional to social, cultural, religious or athletic. There is a campus-based office of Greek Affairs, and there are numerous local chapters of fraternities and sororities available for participation. Student government offers many opportunities for leadership, and many other student activities and events foster the learning of new skills and forging of new friendships. There is an RSO Fair offered every semester to help students choose the club or organization that is right for them.

The office of Student Involvement offers these additional resources for students who wish to form their own student organization:

  • Learn how to plan a budget, receive an excused absence from a class and more
  • Free Pepsi for your organization
  • Meet other students and learn about organizations at the RSO Fair
  • Create a website or email address for your organization
  • Search for a Recognized Student Organization
  • Start your own Recognized Student Organization
  • Get help with event planning
  • Get your organization its own office space
  • Promote your event with the help of the Creation Station
  • Request funds for your organization
  • Find out how to properly use UNL logos
  • Read the RSO Newsletter
  • Read or sign up to a email list 

On campus housing is available, as well as a variety of dining services. In addition, there is now a campus-based "Campus NightLife" that provides safe, free activities for students wishing to enjoy a nightlife within their campus community. Some of the sponsored events and entertainments include the outdoor music concert called "Midwest Acoustic Fest," the "Husker Watch Party," that allows students to view Huskers athletics games on the Jumbo Screen at Memorial Stadium, and many other themed and seasonal events.

Traditions

The UNL school colors are red and white, and the school mascot is the huskers.

Athletics

The UNL "Huskers" athletic teams compete in numerous intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Wrestling

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Bowling
  • Cross Country
  • Gymnastics
  • Rifle
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball 

Satellite Campuses

UNL has two primary campuses in Lincoln, Nebraska - its City Campus and East Campus.

Community Life

UNL is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, a large, friendly midwestern city with vibrant culture and entertainment. Known for its abundant parks and extensive bike trails, the Lincoln offers many outdoor activities. It is also known for its safety, low cost of living, and increasing business development, making it a highly desired place to live.

The university is contributing to the local community through its Global Water for Food Institute, a program that helps meet a critical need for using water resources efficiently for agriculture.

Enrollment

25,820

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

University of Nebraska at Kearney is a public institution located in Kearney, NE and provides a large number of degree programs for students. Approximately six thousand students are enrolled per year at University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Here is a list of some of the popular programs UNK offers:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Recreation And Fitness Studies
  • Family And Consumer Sciences

To be considered for admissions, you may be asked to complete an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. Either the ACT or SAT exam can be taken in order to apply to UNK. Scores within the range of 20 - 25 on the ACT or 890 - 1140 on the SAT are needed to greatly increase your chances for acceptance. UNK admits roughly 90 percent of applicants. Of those applicants admitted, around 48 percent of students enrolled. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The tuition at University of Nebraska at Kearney varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay around $6,800 per year and out-of-state residents are charged $13,000 for the year. The price of on-campus housing is around $4,200 per year. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.

This school has a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

Students can visit the school's http://www.unk.edu to view additional information.

Enrollment

6,327

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

WSC is a public school that has a large number of degree programs available for students to choose from. The school is located in Wayne, NE, in a predominantly rural area. Approximately 3,600 students are enrolled yearly at WSC.

Areas of study offered at WSC include but are not limited to:

  • Education
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Security And Protective Services
  • Psychology

The school has an open enrollment policy, accepting all students that meet the requirements for admission. Submission of transcripts, records, test scores, and admissions essays may be required for certain programs. More information on admissions can be found here.

The tuition at WSC varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay close to $5,800 per year, while out-of-state residents are charged $10,000 per year. The price of on-campus housing is about $3,000 annually. Students enrolled at WSC may qualify for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The WSC Wildcats participate in several intercollegiate athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

For a complete list of programs offered, enrollment information, admissions information, and more, please take a look at the school's website at http://www.wsc.edu.

Enrollment

3,633

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

UNOMAHA provides a variety of educational opportunities for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Omaha, NE and publically funded. Nearly 15,000 students enroll at University of Nebraska at Omaha per year.

Areas of study available at University of Nebraska at Omaha include:

  • Security And Protective Services
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Psychology

To be considered for admissions, applicants may be required to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit school transcripts, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. The majority of students at UNOMAHA scored between 20 to 25 on the ACT exam. Approximately 80% of all applicant were accepted at University of Nebraska at Omaha, with 51% of those admitted choosing to attend.

Tuition & fees at this school are different for in-state and nonresidents. In-state tuition costs nearly $6,900 per year, while out-of-state tuition costing $17,000 annually. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is generally offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

Athletic programs are available at UNOMAHA through the NCAA, allowing students to participate in intercollegiate sports. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division II)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)

To see a full list of areas of study, programs, enrollment information, financial aid details, and more, please take a look at the school's website at http://www.unomaha.edu.

Enrollment

15,431

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Chadron State College, a public institution, offers an assortment of educational opportunities, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Chadron, NE, the school resides in a rural setting for students to study in. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled per year at Chadron State College.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Security And Protective Services
  • Interdisciplinary Studies

The school operates under an open enrollment policy, accepting all students that meet the minimum requirements for admission. Submission of school records, test scores, and personal statements may be needed for certain programs. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

Tuition & fees at this school are different for in-state and nonresidents. In-state tuition costs around $5,900 per year, while out-of-state tuition costing $10,000 per year. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is around $2,800. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.

The Chadron State College "Eagles" compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Athletic programs available:

  • Basketball (NCAA Division II)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division II)
  • Football (NCAA Division II)
  • Golf (NCAA Division II)

Students who wish to get more about Chadron State College can take a look at their website at http://www.csc.edu.

Enrollment

2,448

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Peru State College provides a variety of educational opportunities for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Peru, NE and publically funded. Peru State College has a yearly student enrollment of approximately 2,500.

Areas of study offered at Peru State College include:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Security And Protective Services
  • Psychology
  • Computer And Information Sciences

The school operates under an open enrollment policy, accepting any students that meet the basic requirements for admission. Submission of transcripts, test scores, and personal statements may be required for certain programs. More information regarding admissions can be found here.

Tuition is approximately $5,900 for the year, though it may change based on different types of circumstances. Students should visit the school's price of attendance calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. Housing is available for students, which costs around $3,300 per year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements.

The mascot for Peru State College is the "Bobcats", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through the oversight and organization of the NAIA. Athletic programs available include:

  • Baseball (NAIA Division II)
  • Basketball (NAIA Division II)
  • Football (NAIA Division II)
  • Golf (NAIA Division II)

Students should visit the website to get a complete list of academic programs offered, financial aid details, and more.

Enrollment

2,114

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Degree Pathways at Nebraska Public Colleges

The resources pooled by public colleges provide students with ample opportunity to pursue various degrees. In fact, you can study popular degree programs or specialized degrees influenced by regional innovation. Popular degree paths include staples such asbusiness administration,public policy,history,engineering,finance,teaching, andpsychology. On the other hand, a more specialized degree may be of greater interest to you given your unique abilities and academic acuity. Examples of regionally-influenced degrees may include the following areas of interest:agriculture,aeronautical engineering,agronomy,hydrology,genetics,food science,cognitive science,nursing, andimmunology.

Nebraska State College System

The 2 schools listed below are part of the Nebraska State College System. By following the links below, you can view each school's profile in detail.

Summit Christian College (Peru State) in Peru, NE

Visit the website for Summit Christian College at http://www.summitcc.edu

Program Details

  • 1,000 to 4,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $8,000 per year
Western Nebraska Community College (WNCC) in Wayne, NE

Visit the website for Western Nebraska Community College at http://www.wncc.edu/

Program Details

  • 1,000 to 4,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $3,000 per year for state residents ($3,000 Nonresidents)

University of Nebraska

The 2 schools listed below are part of the University of Nebraska system. By following the links below, you can view each school's profile in detail.

Nebraska Wesleyan University (UNMC) in Omaha, NE

Visit the website for Nebraska Wesleyan University at http://www.nebrwesleyan.edu

Program Details

  • 1,000 to 4,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $37,000 per year
Northeast Community College (Northeast) in Lincoln, NE

Visit the website for Northeast Community College at http://www.northeast.edu

Program Details

  • More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
  • Tuition & fees $4,000 per year for state residents ($5,000 Nonresidents)

Notes: Tuition & fee amounts are for both Nebraska in-state residents and out of state students, unless noted otherwise. The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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