University of Nebraska – Lincoln

5000 St Paul Ave, Lincoln, NE

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.