Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Nebraska

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 24 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$52,532

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

53%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$17,423

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college is a pivotal decision for students and families, particularly in Nebraska where 24 schools offer diverse options. Whether you're looking for a research university or a community college, understanding what each institution brings to the table is crucial. The average earnings for graduates from these Nebraska colleges sit at $52,532, indicating a solid return on investment for many graduates.

What stands out among the top schools in Nebraska are their graduation rates, earnings potential, and debt levels. For instance, institutions like Creighton University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln display strong graduation rates and higher earning potential compared to others. In evaluating the schools listed below, consider how each school's outcomes align with your personal goals and financial situation.

Take the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Western Nebraska Community College. While UNL boasts a graduation rate of 66% and average earnings of $56,887, Western Nebraska Community College has a lower graduation rate of 36% and earnings of $38,729. These differences highlight the trade-offs between school size, degree offerings, and student support services, giving you a reason to explore the details further.

Key Findings

University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates earn an average of $56,887.

Creighton University has the highest graduation rate at 82%.

Students at Western Nebraska Community College have a net price of just $5,474.

The average graduation rate across these schools is 53%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 24

Avg. earnings at 10yr $52,532

Avg. graduation rate 53%

Avg. net price $17,423

Avg. median debt $20,383

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Nebraska

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 →

Western Nebraska Community College

Scottsbluff, NE

Graduation36%

Earnings$38,729

Net Price$5,474

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Creighton University

Omaha, NE · 4,348 students · Private nonprofit

Creighton University, a private nonprofit in Omaha, attracts students with its emphasis on liberal arts education and strong academic programs. With an impressive graduation rate of 82%, it’s a place where students are likely to receive personalized support and mentorship from faculty.

80% accepted 82% graduate $73,911 earnings

Creighton's full profile

Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, NE · 1,453 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $56,405 just a decade after graduation, Nebraska Wesleyan University demonstrates its commitment to student success. The school’s acceptance rate of 80% suggests an inclusive environment where diverse students can thrive, fostering a community that encourages growth and learning.

80% accepted 67% graduate $56,405 earnings

Nebraska's full profile

Western Nebraska Community College

Scottsbluff, NE · 893 students · Public

Western Nebraska Community College serves a tight-knit student body of about 893, focusing on accessible education and workforce development. This institution is especially suitable for students looking for a more personalized learning experience and those interested in starting their education journey with a community college.

36% graduate $38,729 earnings

Western's full profile

Northeast Community College

Norfolk, NE · 2,387 students · Public

With a student body of 2,387, Northeast Community College in Norfolk, NE, fosters a close-knit educational environment. The school's focus on career-ready programs supports a solid graduation rate of 56%, setting students up for meaningful careers after graduation.

56% graduate $42,634 earnings

Northeast's full profile

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE · 10,220 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of over 10,000, Bellevue University emphasizes flexibility and access, catering especially to adult learners and non-traditional students. Its graduation rate of 39% reflects the unique challenges faced by many of its students, who often juggle work and family responsibilities alongside their studies, making the school an important option for those seeking to balance education with life demands.

39% graduate $61,289 earnings

Bellevue's full profile

Mid-Plains Community College

North Platte, NE · 937 students · Public

With a student body of 937, Mid-Plains Community College in North Platte emphasizes accessibility and community engagement. The graduation rate sits at 49%, but students often appreciate the supportive environment that fosters personal growth alongside academic pursuits.

49% graduate $40,059 earnings

Mid-Plains's full profile

Southeast Community College Area

Lincoln, NE · 6,773 students · Public

Southeast Community College Area in Lincoln, NE, has a student body of 6,773 and is dedicated to providing a community-focused learning environment. With a graduation rate of 36%, the college encourages students to pursue their goals, although some may find the path to completion challenging.

36% graduate $43,405 earnings

Southeast's full profile

Peru State College

Peru, NE · 1,092 students · Public

Peru State College, a public institution, offers a unique setting for students drawn to a smaller campus environment. However, the graduation rate of 38% may raise some questions about student retention and support, which are essential factors when considering your college experience.

38% graduate $47,071 earnings

Wayne State College

Wayne, NE · 3,010 students · Public

Wayne State College is home to around 3,010 students, and it has a strong focus on community and personalized education. With a graduation rate of 54%, there's a solid support structure in place to help students succeed, and the school emphasizes hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for the workforce.

54% graduate $47,075 earnings

Midland University

Fremont, NE · 1,159 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $52,163 a decade after graduation, Midland University presents a compelling case for those seeking reliable job prospects post-college. This private nonprofit institution in Fremont, Nebraska, hosts around 1,159 students and maintains a healthy acceptance rate of 66%, welcoming a diverse range of applicants who may find a supportive community here.

66% accepted 43% graduate $52,163 earnings

Midland's full profile

#11

Hastings College

Hastings, NE · 891 students · Private nonprofit

Hastings College, located in Hastings, Nebraska, has a strong graduation rate of 51%, reflecting its commitment to student success. With a close-knit community of 891 students, this private nonprofit school is known for its engaging academic environment, where faculty are dedicated to helping students thrive in their studies and beyond.

72% accepted 51% graduate $51,303 earnings

Hastings's full profile

#12

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

Chadron State College serves around 1,540 students and emphasizes a personalized educational experience in a picturesque campus setting. With a graduation rate of 44%, students benefit from strong faculty support and a commitment to student engagement, making it a nurturing environment for those looking to grow academically and personally.

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

#13

Doane University

Crete, NE · 978 students · Private nonprofit

Doane University is located in Crete, Nebraska, and serves about 978 students in a supportive and engaging learning atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 56%, Doane demonstrates a firm commitment to academic success, helping students transition smoothly into their professional lives after college.

98% accepted 56% graduate $53,316 earnings

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Kearney, NE · 4,088 students · Public

University of Nebraska at Kearney, home to over 4,000 students, emphasizes a comprehensive educational experience that combines academic rigor with support services. With a graduation rate of 59%, students often find their footing through a variety of programs tailored to their interests and career goals.

89% accepted 59% graduate $50,105 earnings

University's full profile

#15

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE · 19,178 students · Public

With nearly 19,200 students, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a strong sense of community and considerable resources. The school is known for its vibrant campus life and research opportunities, which can be particularly appealing for students looking to engage in hands-on learning.

87% accepted 66% graduate $56,887 earnings

University's full profile

#16

University of Nebraska at Omaha

Omaha, NE · 11,488 students · Public

Located in Omaha, the University of Nebraska at Omaha emphasizes career readiness and community engagement. This school is a good fit for students who appreciate a smaller campus environment, with around 11,500 students, while still enjoying the benefits of a public university.

87% accepted 47% graduate $53,909 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, NE · 1,283 students · Private nonprofit

Concordia University-Nebraska in Seward embodies a strong sense of community and faith, attracting students who value a holistic education. With a graduation rate of 64%, the university supports students in achieving their academic aspirations while cultivating personal and spiritual growth.

86% accepted 64% graduate $52,415 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#18

Union Adventist University

Lincoln, NE · 471 students · Private nonprofit

The welcoming atmosphere at Union Adventist University, with a 100% acceptance rate, encourages students from all backgrounds to pursue their education. Although the graduation rate stands at 49%, the focus on holistic education and community could be a strong draw for students looking for personalized support.

100% accepted 49% graduate $55,045 earnings

York University

York, NE · 428 students · Private nonprofit

York University is a small private nonprofit institution in York, Nebraska, with a tight-knit community of just 428 students. The school has a graduation rate of 44%, suggesting that while challenges exist, many students find the support they need to succeed academically and personally in a welcoming environment.

52% accepted 44% graduate $44,130 earnings

Metropolitan Community College Area

Omaha, NE · 8,775 students · Public

Metropolitan Community College Area serves a large student population of 8,775, providing a variety of vocational and academic programs aimed at meeting local workforce needs. However, the college has a relatively low graduation rate of 27%, which indicates that some students may need additional support to complete their studies.

27% graduate $38,773 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#21

College of Saint Mary

Omaha, NE · 445 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Omaha, College of Saint Mary fosters a close-knit community with a focus on empowering women in education. The college has a graduation rate of 60%, indicating that many students find their footing and succeed in their academic goals.

45% accepted 60% graduate $54,338 earnings

College's full profile

#22

Clarkson College

Omaha, NE · 622 students · Private nonprofit

Clarkson College is dedicated to healthcare and professional education, setting a strong focus on preparing students for careers in high-demand fields. With a median earning potential of $64,876 after ten years, graduates are well-positioned for financial stability and career advancement in their chosen paths.

78% accepted 67% graduate $64,876 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#23

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

Omaha, NE · 781 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Omaha, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health is dedicated to health professions, which is increasingly relevant in today's job market. With a graduation rate of 63%, it’s clear that students are finding success in their educational journeys here.

73% accepted 63% graduate $65,071 earnings

Nebraska's full profile

#24

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Lincoln, NE · 553 students · Private nonprofit

At Bryan College of Health Sciences, students find a focused path toward healthcare careers in a supportive environment with a 73% graduation rate. With only 553 students, the college offers a tight-knit community where personal attention from faculty helps students thrive in their studies and clinical experiences, preparing them for real-world healthcare challenges.

67% accepted 73% graduate $70,845 earnings

When looking at the data, the contrast between the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Creighton University is striking. UNO has a graduation rate of 47% and average earnings of $53,909, while Creighton stands out with an 82% graduation rate and higher earnings at $73,911. This suggests that while UNO may have a lower graduation rate, students who do graduate may still find solid job prospects.

As you compare these schools, think about what matters most to you. Are you prioritizing lower debt and cost, like that offered by Northeast Community College, or are you focused on earning potential and graduation rates, such as those at Creighton? Each school presents a unique combination of factors that may align differently with your personal and financial goals.

Ultimately, the data illustrates the varying paths to financial stability after college. A degree can lead to higher earnings, but the decision on which path to take is personal and complex. Whether you opt for a community college or a larger university, consider the long-term implications of your choice, as it will shape not just your career but also your financial future.

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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