Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Nebraska

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 19 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$55,640

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

56%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,250

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a bachelor's program in Nebraska involves more than just picking a school; it's about finding the right fit for your future. With 19 institutions offering diverse programs, students are looking for pathways that lead to solid career outcomes and manageable debt. On average, graduates from these programs earn about $55,640 annually, which gives us a starting point to understand what's at stake.

The most successful schools on this list distinguish themselves through their focus on outcomes like earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels. For example, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln leads with an impressive $56,887 average earnings and a graduation rate of 66%. This combination of factors is essential for informed decision-making, as it reflects how well institutions prepare their students for the job market.

When we compare two top schools, Creighton University stands out with an average earnings figure of $73,911 and an 82% graduation rate. In contrast, the University of Nebraska at Omaha shows average earnings at $53,909, with a lower graduation rate of 47%. This difference highlights the importance of both financial outcomes and completion rates as you explore your options.

Key Findings

Creighton University graduates earn an average of $73,911, the highest among Nebraska schools.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a 66% graduation rate, significantly higher than the average of 56%.

Students at the University of Nebraska at Omaha face a net price of $13,441, the lowest in this list.

Graduates from the College of Saint Mary have an average debt of $24,250, which is on the higher side compared to others.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 19

Avg. earnings at 10yr $55,640

Avg. graduation rate 56%

Avg. net price $20,250

Avg. median debt $23,156

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Nebraska ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Creighton University

Omaha, NE

Graduation82%

Earnings$73,911

Net Price$31,568

View full profile →

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, NE

Graduation67%

Earnings$56,405

Net Price$18,327

View full profile →

Peru State College

Peru, NE

Graduation38%

Earnings$47,071

Net Price$11,632

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Creighton University

Omaha, NE · 4,348 students · Private nonprofit

Creighton University, a private nonprofit institution in Omaha, serves a close-knit community of around 4,348 students. The impressive graduation rate of 82% reflects a supportive academic environment, and graduates enjoy median earnings of $73,911 ten years after they leave, indicating strong career outcomes for alumni.

80% accepted 82% graduate $73,911 earnings

Creighton's full profile

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, NE · 1,453 students · Private nonprofit

In Lincoln, Nebraska Wesleyan University combines a liberal arts education with a strong commitment to community engagement. The university's 67% graduation rate reflects its supportive environment, where students receive personalized attention from faculty dedicated to their success.

80% accepted 67% graduate $56,405 earnings

Nebraska's full profile

Peru State College

Peru, NE · 1,092 students · Public

Peru State College, a public institution in Nebraska, presents an affordable option for students with a net price of just $11,632. While the graduation rate is lower at 38%, the college serves a diverse population, with 37% of students receiving Pell Grants. This environment may appeal to students who thrive in smaller, community-oriented settings and are looking for an accessible pathway to higher education.

38% graduate $47,071 earnings

Wayne State College

Wayne, NE · 3,010 students · Public

Wayne State College, a public institution in Nebraska, serves a larger student body of 3,010, creating a vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 54%, it provides a solid option for students seeking a diverse educational experience. The college fosters an inclusive atmosphere, with 26% of students receiving Pell Grants, making higher education more accessible for those from various backgrounds.

54% graduate $47,075 earnings

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE · 10,220 students · Private nonprofit

Bellevue University, a private nonprofit institution, caters to over 10,000 students and focuses on adult learners and working professionals. The graduation rate is lower at 39%, yet the school emphasizes practical knowledge and flexibility, fostering a unique environment for those balancing education with career and family commitments.

39% graduate $61,289 earnings

Bellevue's full profile

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

Chadron State College, located in the scenic Nebraska Panhandle, serves a close-knit community of 1,540 students. With a graduation rate of 44%, this public college offers a personalized learning environment where students can build strong relationships with faculty and peers, vital for success in their academic journey.

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

Midland University

Fremont, NE · 1,159 students · Private nonprofit

Midland University, located in Fremont, Nebraska, offers a vibrant community for its 1,159 students and emphasizes a strong liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 43%, the school provides various programs that encourage students to explore their passions while preparing for the workforce, creating a supportive environment for intellectual growth and personal development.

66% accepted 43% graduate $52,163 earnings

Midland's full profile

Hastings College

Hastings, NE · 891 students · Private nonprofit

In Hastings, Nebraska, Hastings College is home to a close-knit community of 891 students. With a graduation rate of 51%, the school fosters a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and academic success. Its 72% acceptance rate suggests that there’s a place here for a diverse range of students eager to pursue their passions.

72% accepted 51% graduate $51,303 earnings

Hastings's full profile

University of Nebraska at Omaha

Omaha, NE · 11,488 students · Public

The University of Nebraska at Omaha, home to 11,488 students, prides itself on being a welcoming institution with an 87% acceptance rate. The graduation rate, while lower at 47%, reflects the challenges some students face in completing their degrees, but the commitment to improving support services is evident.

87% accepted 47% graduate $53,909 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Kearney, NE · 4,088 students · Public

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, around 4,088 students enjoy a personalized educational experience in a friendly environment. With a graduation rate of 59%, Kearney is working to support students in completing their degrees, and many graduates see earnings of $50,105 ten years after they graduate, which reflects a solid return on their investment.

89% accepted 59% graduate $50,105 earnings

University's full profile

#11

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE · 19,178 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 19,200, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a vibrant campus experience in the heart of Lincoln. What’s compelling is the median earnings of $56,887 for graduates ten years after enrollment, indicating strong job prospects for students entering various fields.

87% accepted 66% graduate $56,887 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Doane University

Crete, NE · 978 students · Private nonprofit

Crete, Nebraska, hosts Doane University, which serves 978 students in a vibrant, engaged community. The school has a higher graduation rate of 56%, indicating strong support systems that help students navigate their academic paths. A remarkable 98% acceptance rate opens the door for many who are seeking a college experience that values inclusivity and personal development.

98% accepted 56% graduate $53,316 earnings

Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, NE · 1,283 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Seward, Concordia University-Nebraska has a strong tradition of academic excellence, emphasizing a Christian-based education that nurtures both intellectual and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 64%, students are supported in their journeys toward successful careers while being part of a vibrant campus community.

86% accepted 64% graduate $52,415 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#14

Union Adventist University

Lincoln, NE · 471 students · Private nonprofit

Union Adventist University in Lincoln, NE welcomes all students with a 100% acceptance rate, making it an inclusive choice for those seeking a faith-based education. The school has a graduation rate of 49% and a close-knit community of 471 students, where personal attention from faculty can be a significant advantage for many learners.

100% accepted 49% graduate $55,045 earnings

York University

York, NE · 428 students · Private nonprofit

York University, with its smaller campus of 428 students, offers an intimate educational experience in York, Nebraska. A graduation rate of 44% indicates that while some may face challenges completing their degrees, the community works to support students through their journeys. With 40% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university aims to provide opportunities for those from diverse economic backgrounds.

52% accepted 44% graduate $44,130 earnings

College of Saint Mary

Omaha, NE · 445 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of 445, the College of Saint Mary in Omaha fosters a close-knit community. The school's focus on supporting women in leadership roles is reflected in its mission and educational approach, creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

45% accepted 60% graduate $54,338 earnings

College's full profile

#17

Clarkson College

Omaha, NE · 622 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $64,876 at ten years post-graduation, Clarkson College in Omaha, NE offers a solid foundation for students aiming for strong financial outcomes. The college's commitment to education is reflected in its 67% graduation rate and an acceptance rate of 78%, which welcomes a diverse student body, including 40% Pell Grant recipients seeking accessible education.

78% accepted 67% graduate $64,876 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#18

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

Omaha, NE · 781 students · Private nonprofit

Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha is dedicated to health professions, making it an excellent choice for students who want to pursue careers in nursing and allied health fields. The college's emphasis on practical experience is evident, providing students with hands-on opportunities that prepare them for the workforce.

73% accepted 63% graduate $65,071 earnings

Nebraska's full profile

#19

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Lincoln, NE · 553 students · Private nonprofit

Bryan College of Health Sciences, situated in Lincoln, Nebraska, has an impressive graduation rate of 73%, making it an appealing option for students focused on health sciences. With a smaller student body of 553, the college fosters an intimate learning atmosphere where students can receive personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty in their fields of study.

67% accepted 73% graduate $70,845 earnings

In looking at the data, a notable pattern emerges between Creighton University and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. While Creighton boasts the highest average earnings of $73,911 and an 82% graduation rate, Omaha's figures are significantly lower, with average earnings at $53,909 and a graduation rate of just 47%. This stark contrast indicates that stronger academic support and resources at Creighton may contribute to better outcomes for its students.

As you weigh your options, consider how these metrics align with your personal priorities. If financial considerations are paramount, the University of Nebraska at Omaha offers a lower net price, but you may sacrifice potential earnings and support. Conversely, if your goal is higher earning potential after graduation, the figures for Creighton may justify a higher net price and debt.

Ultimately, this data reflects the journey from college to career stability. Choosing the right program can mean the difference between entering the workforce with confidence or struggling under student debt. It's crucial to approach this decision with a clear understanding of both your financial situation and your career aspirations.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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