20 Best Affordable Schools in Nebraska for Bachelor’s Degree 2020

In the following ranking, we look at the 20 best affordable colleges in Nebraska for bachelor's degrees. As a state recognized for its expansive prairies, many historical trails, and a booming agricultural industry, Nebraska exudes down-to-earth living and typical Midwestern charm. Although the colleges and universities in Nebraska may not be for everyone, if your ideal college checklist includes spirited athletics, religious programs, a small campus, and/or degrees that emphasize healthcare, technology, and agriculture, Nebraska is the place to be.

Also, the state's relatively low cost of living allows for some of the most affordable tuition costs in the nation. Although cheap schools abound, it doesn't mean this Midwestern state's schools cheap out on student services or academic resources. Using features such as graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and tuition rates, we have compiled the following list of the 20 best affordable colleges in Nebraska for bachelor's degrees.

Methodology

In order to develop our initial list of the top 20 best affordable colleges in Nebraska for bachelor's degrees, we conducted a search for the colleges in Nebraska offering bachelor's degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then awarded points based on three important factors related to student success and satisfaction, class size, and affordability. Ties in points were broken by the lowest-cost tuition.

Average Cost of Attendance

Although it might be tempting to choose the cheapest bachelor's degree in Nebraska just to save some money, if the school does not offer the program you want, extracurriculars, opportunities for hands-on learning, or other things that interest you, what is the point? For this reason, it is important to consider the following tuition rates as they relate to the quality and offerings of the school and program itself. We ranked the tuition rates for each school based on how much an in-state student will pay for one year of study if he or she were to take 15 hours of coursework per semester, as reported from NCES.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

To get a better understanding of class size, we looked at the student-to-faculty ratios for each school. While some students may prefer the academic and extracurricular offerings of a large state university, others may be searching for the academic support and close relationships typically provided by small private colleges. Although there is no one-size-fits-all school, for this ranking, we determined that schools with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios per faculty member, as stated from NCES, would receive the highest number of points.

Graduation Rate

Finally, the last factor by which we awarded points was that of the graduation rate. Graduation rates are useful when it comes to determining student success and satisfaction. After all, students who are happy with their academic experiences are more likely to stay at that school, continue with their studies, and earn their degree. On the other hand, students who are unhappy due to a lack of academic support, inexperienced or unhelpful professors, or unaffordable programs may be more likely to leave an institution and finish their studies elsewhere. Therefore, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities in Nebraska with the highest graduation rates from NCES.

Ranking 20 Best Affordable Colleges in Nebraska

20. Nebraska Christian College

Papillon, Nebraska

Nebraska Christian College is an offers numerous affordable online degrees.

Points: 4School Website

Established in 1945, NCC merged with Hope International University in 2016 to offer students additional cheap degree options and a plethora of online courses. The school offers Bible-based academic options in order to prepare graduates for ministry and service. Students at NCC may pursue six low-cost bachelor's degrees in pastoral ministry, worship ministry, next generation ministry, Christian ministry, family life and counseling, and intercultural ministry. Affordable online undergraduate programs are offered in business administration, criminal justice, human development, and teacher preparation. Students of this top-value college may participate in athletics, student organizations and clubs, and rural church conferences. All of campus life is centered around "houses," and students are assigned a house that becomes their connection to church service, spiritual life, activities, and more.

19. Bellevue University

Bellevue, Nebraska

Bellevue University offers affordable online degrees in Nebraska.

Points: 4School Website

Bellevue University is a private university located on a beautiful 46-acre main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska. Founded in 1966, this inexpensive university focuses on providing educational outreach and adult education to more than 9,600 students, many of whom are between the ages of 25 and 34. Bellevue confers more than 80 low-cost degrees in in-demand fields as well as certificates for career advancement through its four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Science and Technology, and the College of Continuing and Professional Education. Popular cheap areas of study according to the number of graduates include business, social science research methods, management science and information systems, healthcare management, police and criminal science, and information science. Bellevue emphasizes a "Skills to Performance" teaching philosophy that emphasizes practice and education based on industry guidelines, enabling students to access job prospects, networking opportunities, and more in order to prepare for dynamic careers in their fields.

18. Midland University

Fremont, Nebraska

Midland University is an accredited Nebraska university that enrolls 1,400 students annually.

Points: 5School Website

Established in 1883, Midland University is a high-value accredited university in Nebraska. Located in Fremont, Midland is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and enrolls approximately 1,400 students each year. This top-value private university offers affordable undergraduate and graduate degree programs in more than 30 academic areas. Bachelor's programs are offered in arts management, natural science, and sports management and marketing, while those with the highest number of graduates include business, nursing, education, physical education teaching and coaching, biology, and police and criminal science. Outside of the classroom, students may participate in more than 30 organizations and clubs. The school boasts a four-year graduation guarantee, which means that students who meet specific requirements and who are unable to graduate for certain reasons will be entitled to receive free tuition for the duration of their program.

17. University of Nebraska Medical Center

Omaha, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska Medical Center is a low-cost college specializing in health sciences.

Points: 5School Website

The University of Nebraska Medical Center, located in Omaha, is one of the best-value universities in Nebraska that focuses on health sciences education, research, and patient care. Established in 1880 as a private medical college, UNMC became a member of the University of Nebraska System in 1902. UNMC is dedicated to educating the next century of healthcare leaders with the latest in facilities, technology, and tools. Although the school enrolls around 4,000 students each year, its unbelievable 2:1 student-to-faculty ratio invites small-group learning. Affordable undergraduate degrees are available in public health, pharmacy, nursing, medicine, dentistry, and the allied health professions as well as a number of graduate programs, several postdoctoral programs, and medical residencies. The iEXCEL program, a transformative model for healthcare research, training, and education, provides experiential and inter-professional learning opportunities to all students, regardless of major.

16. University of Nebraska at Omaha

Omaha, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is an affordable accredited university offering 200 bachelor's degrees.

Points: 5School Website

The University of Nebraska at Omaha was established in 1908 as the University of Omaha. This top-value school was initially founded to provide a Christian-based education without ecclesiastical control. Today, UNO confers more than 200 low-cost undergraduate programs as well as more than 70 graduate degrees and certificates. Popular affordable majors include criminal justice, business, finance, and psychology as well as marketing, biology, and the liberal arts and humanities. There is an extraordinary number of extracurricular opportunities at UNO, including the University Honors Program which provides benefits such as networking opportunities and membership through the National Collegiate Honors Council, early registration, and the chance to receive a full scholarship. With more than 500 university partner organizations focused on community issues, UNO does not shy away when it comes to student engagement.

15. Peru State College

Peru, Nebraska

Peru State College is an affordable Nebraska college that was founded in 1865.

Points: 5School Website

Peru State College, a public college in Peru, Nebraska, was founded in 1865 by members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, making it the first and oldest college in the state. PSC enrolls more than 2,600 students throughout its three schools: Arts and Sciences, Education, and Professional Studies. At the undergraduate level, PSC confers 13 affordable undergraduate degrees with 47 academic options such as computer and management information systems, wildlife ecology, criminal justice, music marketing, social science, and graphic design. Nontraditional learners can explore asynchronous online courses and distance education options. Engagement opportunities from this best-value college include study-abroad programs, an honors program, internships, a mobile food pantry, and the Rural Impact Hub. PSC also differs from other Nebraska-based colleges for its Rural Health Opportunities Program (RHOP), a co-op between PSC and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

14. Creighton University

Omaha, Nebraska

Creighton University is an accredited Nebraska university that enrolls 8,600 students a year.

Points: 6School Website

Creighton University is a private university on a 140-acre campus just outside the downtown business district in Omaha, Nebraska. Founded in 1878 as Creighton College by the Society of Jesus, this best-value accredited university is comprised of nine schools and colleges and enrolls 8,600 students each year. The school offers a top-ranked education for professional students, graduates, and undergraduates with more than 140 affordable academic offerings in business, law, science, the arts, and many health fields. Economical programs are available in on-campus, online, hybrid, and accelerated formats, allowing students to choose the learning method that best meets their individual needs. Outside of the classroom, research is considered a critical component of the school's mission, and Creighton spends more than $26 million each year to fund community, faculty, and student projects. Aside from academics, Creighton is one of the top colleges in the state for student life. From organizations and clubs that revolve around social, athletic, political and cultural interests to Greek societies and opportunities for community engagement, any student will be able to get involved at Creighton.

13. Nebraska Wesleyan University

Lincoln, Nebraska

Nebraska Wesleyan University was founded in 1887.

Points: 6School Website

Nebraska Wesleyan University is an affordable private university that was founded by Methodists in 1887. Today, NWU enrolls 2,100 students in more than 120 top-value undergraduate majors, minors, and 16 pre-professional programs as well as four adult undergraduate degrees, five graduate degrees, and two certificates. Some of the school's most in-demand majors include nursing, business, biology, and social work as well as exercise science, psychology, communications, and elementary education. Not only does NWU provide many opportunities for study abroad, research, and internships, it also offers a Graduation Commitment in which students enrolled in the College of Arts & Sciences can take up to 16 additional credits for free if they follow the school's guidelines but are unable to graduate in four years.

12. Doane University

crete, nebraska

Doane University is a top-value university in Nebraska that was established in 1872.

Points: 6School Website

Doane University is a private accredited university in Nebraska that operates a main campus in Crete as well as additional locations in Grand Island, Lincoln, and Omaha. Established in 1872 by the United Church of Christ, it is the oldest private university in the state. Doane offers top-value undergraduate and graduate degrees to more than 2,900 students, and top majors include business, sociology, biology, and physical education as well as psychology, elementary education, English, and history. In terms of student life, Doane hosts more than 60 student organizations, NAIA athletic teams, and 10 Greek Life chapters as well as college-sponsored trips, study-abroad programs, and leadership development opportunities. This low-cost university in Nebraska also provides a four-year graduation guarantee, meaning that if students have followed their degree plan and are still unable to graduate within four years, Doane will pay the cost of classes for them to complete their degree.

11. Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, Nebraska

Concordia University-Nebraska offers affordable online degrees in Nebraska.

Points: 6School Website

Concordia University-Nebraska, located in Seward, is a private accredited university that is affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. It is one of nine schools in the Concordia University System, and it is organized into the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Graduate Studies. Concordia University-Nebraska offers more than 70 inexpensive residential undergraduate programs, more than 25 graduate and adult degrees, and more than 40 career-focused online programs. Students have the opportunity to study a number of various disciplines and fields, from business administration and theology to public health and exercise science. Those who are interested in the fine and creative arts will find Concordia's speech, visual arts, music, and theater programs among the best in the state. In terms of financial funding, Concordia is also highly-ranked, providing 100 percent of students with grants and scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition.

10. Hastings College

Hastings, Nebraska

Hastings College is a top-value college in Nebraska with more than 40 available majors.

Points: 6School Website

Established in 1882 by the Presbyterian Church, Hastings College is a private college in Nebraska nestled on a 120-acre campus. With more than 40 affordable majors, 14 pre-professional programs, and dozens of minors, students have many opportunities to pursue their professional passions. Students may also choose to design their own degree based on their own goals, interests, and skills through the school's Personalized Program option. Popular areas of study at this economical college in Nebraska include business, elementary education, marketing, psychology, sociology, and biology. Student life consists of more than 100 student organizations, the arts, music, athletics, and intramural activities, so students can rest assured that they will always find something happening on-campus. Also, those looking to work their bodies as well as their minds will find a health center, balanced dining choices, and great workout facilities as well as favorite nearby locations such as Lake Hastings, Heartwell Park, and the Pioneer Spirit Trail.

9. College of Saint Mary

Omaha, Nebraska

The College of Saint Mary is an affordable college in Nebraska that was founded in 1923.

Points: 6School Website

The College of Saint Mary, located in Omaha, is a Catholic women's university that enrolls around 1,000 students each year. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1923, this private affordable college in Nebraska offers top-value majors in fields of study such as legal studies, health professions, education, business, and the arts and sciences. Some of the school's most popular economical majors based on enrollment include rehabilitation and therapy, biology, nursing and nursing assistant, the liberal arts and humanities, and business. Outside of the classroom, CSM provides service opportunities to staff, faculty, and students who reach out to more than 30 community organizations each year. Whether it is through hospitals, clinics, stages, studios, courtrooms, classrooms, or businesses, CSM graduates jump into leadership positions worldwide, and 92 percent of graduates pursue a graduate program or launch their careers within six months of earning their degree. Those who are concerned about tuition needn't worry; CSM does not turn students away after they are accepted based on their financial situations.

8. York College

York, Nebraska

York College is an affordable college in Nebraska that enrolls fewer than 500 students.

Points: 6School Website

Established in 1890, York College is a top-value Nebraska college. Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, the school enrolls fewer than 500 students per year. Affordable on-campus bachelor's degrees include a business administration, biblical studies, natural science, and vocal music performance as well as pre-professional programs in seven areas of study. Academics aside, students may choose to participate in the school's fine arts or vibrant athletics programs, whether that be performing in a musical or play or playing as a Panther on the basketball team. Social service clubs at this low-cost college in Nebraska provide YC students with the opportunity to enjoy fellowship, grow spiritually, and participate in group activities such as community service projects and social events.

7. Nebraska Methodist College

Omaha, Nebraska

Nebraska Methodist College offers one of the most affordable colleges in Nebraska for healthcare degrees.

Points: 6School Website

Nebraska Methodist College is a private affordable college that focuses on offering healthcare degrees. Established in 1891 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church, NMC confers low-cost undergraduate and graduate degrees, including bachelor's programs in nursing, diagnostic medical sonography, imaging sciences, respiratory therapy, and healthcare management. NMC's graduation rate is among the highest in the state, and hands-on learning experiences are the norm. The school's First Year Experience is a program designed for first-time freshmen that helps in the transition to college life and provides the opportunity for students to become familiar with the school and their peers. From on-campus housing and a fitness center to counseling and academic support, students at this inexpensive college will find everything they need to become a successful NMC student.

6. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers more than 200 affordable degrees.

Points: 6School Website

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, one of the cheapest colleges in Nebraska, is located on a 622-acre campus. Established in 1869, it is the oldest university in the state and the largest school in the University of Nebraska System. UNL is comprised of nine colleges that offer more than 200 low-cost programs in architecture, agricultural sciences and natural resources, business, engineering, education and human sciences, the arts and sciences, law, journalism and mass communications, and fine and performing arts. UNL is a member of the largest organization of research schools in the U.S., the Big Ten Academic Alliance, which allows students to not only gain funding for research but also present their projects to their fellow students and experts in their fields. Notable UNL alumni include television talk show host Johnny Carson as well as philanthropist and investor Warren Buffet.

5. Chadron State College

Chadron, Nebraska

Chadron State College is a low-cost college that enrolls 3,000 students annually.

Points: 6School Website

Located just one hour from Mount Rushmore and eight hours from Yellowstone Park, Chadron State College is one of the best-value colleges in Nebraska. Established in 1911, the school enrolls around 3,000 students each year. Five of the 25 major on-campus buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. CSC confers a variety of inexpensive academic programs, including degrees in family and consumer sciences, American Indian studies, business, geoscience, and agronomy, range, and crop science. Online options are also available through which students may earn an undergraduate or graduate degree at their own pace and on their own schedule. CSC is also one of few institutions of higher learning in Nebraska that offers programs in rangeland management and agriculture. Academic services and support are available for all students, including a personal academic advisor to assist with applying and transitioning to college life.

4. Wayne State College

Wayne, Nebraska

Wayne State College has been granting affordable degrees in Nebraska since 1910.

Points: 6School Website

Wayne State College is a best-value college in Nebraska. Founded in 1910 as State Normal School, WSC offers more than 130 affordable academic programs that prepare students for a future in industrial technology, graphic design, counseling, education, business, sport management, criminal justice, and health, among many other careers. Specialized programs supplement traditional college education through networking opportunities, work experience, and professional development training. In addition to boasting the cheapest tuition in the region, Wayne State also offers thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. Those looking to give back to the community may participate in the Rural Law Opportunities Program with the goal of advocating for underserved and poor populations.

3. Union College

Lincoln, Nebraska

Union College is a private Nebraska college established in 1891.

Points: 7School Website

Established in 1891, Union College is a private Seventh-day Adventist accredited university in Nebraska. Located in Lincoln, UC confers more than 50 low-cost majors, minors, and emphases in fields of study such as engineering, Web development, small business management, and arts education. The school is known for its affordable physician assistant program in which students complete a bachelor's degree in health science and a master's degree in physician assistantship within six years. All Union students receive plentiful professional and academic support, including access to campus ministries, career assistance, and counseling and advising services. Students also have the option to join campus organizations, worship services, and an honors program.

2. Clarkson College

Omaha, Nebraska

Clarkson College offers affordable online health sciences degrees in Nebraska.

Points: 7School Website

Located in Omaha, Clarkson College is a private affordable college in Nebraska that offers top-value undergraduate programs in the health sciences. Originally established as a nursing school and hospital in 1869, Clarkson helps students develop their skills and knowledge in fields such as healthcare services, administrative management, and imaging informatics. Students in all low-cost degree programs are prepared for gainful employment through a rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning. Clarkson also offers professional development classes as well as online and distance learning options for adult learners and working professionals. Student life is engaging and diverse, from participation in national organizations, student-run clubs, and intramural athletic teams to on-campus, suite-style living accommodations.

1. University of Nebraska at Kearney

Kearney, Nebraska

The University of Nebraska at Kearney is a best-value Nebraska university.

Points: 7School Website

The University of Nebraska at Kearney, founded as the Nebraska State Normal School at Kearney in 1905, is ranked as the best affordable college in Nebraska for a bachelor's degree. The College of Arts & Sciences is the intellectual foundation of UNK, providing students with a top-notch liberal arts education in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Students may pursue inexpensive degree and certificate options in fields such as computer science, modern languages, educational administration, and interior design. The school's eCampus accommodates working adults and nontraditional students who are looking for flexibility through online degrees. Student life at UNK includes a vibrant community with access to professional and academic opportunities such as participation in national honors societies, sororities, and fraternities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Most In-Demand Careers in Nebraska for Graduates with a Bachelor's Degree?

About one million Nebraskans are employed, according to the Nebraska Department of Labor. At 3 percent as of May 2019, the state's unemployment rate is tied for the 10th lowest in the country. Although such a low rate can restrict job growth and indicate a lack of slack in the labor market, it can also be a positive signal about the state's economy and the quality of its labor force. Occupations that involve repetitive work such as manufacturing as well as some secretarial and administrative jobs are falling victim to automation, while "H3" jobs — high-wage, high-skills, and high-demand — are growing. This is a sometimes surprising list that includes machinery mechanics, truck drivers, nurses, software developers, and some positions related to construction. Another area seeing national growth is producer services such as engineering, accounting, and information technology.

According to NEworks at the Nebraska Department of Labor, the following are the top 10 most in-demand careers in Nebraska based on long-term occupational projections as well as each position's growth percentage from 2016 to 2026.

• • Wind Turbine Service Technicians: 90.83 percent

  • Home Health Aides: 41.11 percent

  • Information Security Analysts: 37.74 percent

  • Occupational Therapy Assistants: 33.66 percent

  • Software Developers, Applications: 31.41 percent

  • Physical Therapist Assistants: 30.47 percent

  • Hearing Aid Specialists: 29.41 percent

  • Operations Research Analysts: 29.15 percent

  • Credit Counselors: 28.77 percent

  • Physician Assistants: 28.67 percent

What are the Highest-Paying Jobs in Nebraska?

As you are thinking about your future employment, it is a good idea to also consider how much you will earn in any given field, particularly if you are unsure of your major or the industry in which you would like to work. In order to provide statistics and figures that are as up-to-date as possible, we turned to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for assistance. According to the Bureau, the annual mean wage across all occupations, industries, employers, and regions throughout Nebraska was $46,710 as of May 2018. The top five highest-paying jobs include anesthesiologists, surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, general internists, and obstetricians and gynecologists.

For this article, however, we also wanted to provide you with the top 10 highest-paying occupations that undergraduates can obtain either with a bachelor's degree alone or with a bachelor's degree and additional training and/or experience:

• • Architectural and Engineering Managers: $126,970

  • Computer and Information Systems Managers: $122,450

  • Compensation and Benefits Managers: $118,870

  • Aerospace Engineers: $115,120

  • Financial Managers: $113,910

  • Human Resources Managers: $107,500

  • Medical and Health Services Managers: $107,250

  • Sales Managers: $107,030

  • Advertising and Promotions Managers: $106,780

  • Physician Assistants: $106,700

What are the Best Schools in Nebraska for Bachelor's Recipients?

For students looking to pursue degrees from the most affordable colleges in Nebraska, academic options abound in nearly every industry. However, many students who graduate from a Nebraska-based school go on to work in careers in the advanced manufacturing, health services, tourism, finance, software and technology, transportation logistics, biosolutions, and agricultural industries. Whether you know the exact school you would like to attend or the industry in which you would like to work, or you are interested in learning more about how you can get the most bang for your buck, the following information can be useful as you make your decision. We compiled a list of five schools detailed above and provided salary information pertaining to early career earnings, mid-career pay, and the 20-year net returns on investment, or the amount a graduate can expect to earn after 20 years of employment, according to PayScale. The figures below are calculated based on the cost of in-state tuition for an in-state student who earned only a bachelor's degree with no financial aid, and we ranked them in order from the highest ROI to the lowest ROI.

• • 1. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

    - 20-Year Net ROI: $359,000

    - Early Career Pay: $50,600

    - Mid-Career Pay: $94,800

• • 2. University of Nebraska at Omaha

    - 20-Year Net ROI: $284,000

    - Early Career Pay: $48,400

    - Mid-Career Pay: $87,300

• • 3. Creighton University

    - 20-Year Net ROI: $269,000

    - Early Career Pay: $52,400

    - Mid-Career Pay: $93,100

• • 4. Clarkson College

    - 20-Year Net ROI: $247,000

    - Early Career Pay: $50,800

    - Mid-Career Pay: $89,700

• • 5. Union College

    - 20-Year Net ROI: $220,000

    - Early Career Pay: $47,600

    - Mid-Career Pay: $86,500

The University of Nebraska boasts two strong schools that offer a sound ROI: Lincoln and Omaha. In fact, UNL, the flagship public research university in Nebraska, not only boasts the highest 20-year net ROI on our list but also the highest mid-career pay. While both schools have a strong academic reputation, they are also known for their athletic teams. Some of the most notable alumni of the University of Nebraska System include experts in the fields of business, public service, research, and science. All five schools hover around $50,000 in terms of starting salaries for undergraduates just entering the workforce after earning a bachelor's degree.

Made up mostly of vast, rural expanses and farmland, Nebraska is home to a number of universities and colleges that deliver a solid ROI. Students in the Cornhusker State enjoy more than just a good value for their education; they also benefit from studying in a central state well-suited for road trips and adventures. As you narrow down your list of prospective schools, we hope that our list of the best affordable colleges in Nebraska for bachelor's degrees provides information to help keep you organized and choose the best college or university to meet your needs.

AS Staff

This concludes our ranking of the 20 best affordable colleges in Nebraska for bachelor's degrees.

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