Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska 2024

Badge for BEST IN NEBRASKA CHRISTIAN COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • The eight Christian colleges in our ranking have small student bodies and more opportunity to interact with faculty.
  • Attending a Christian college in Nebraska allows students to learn about and practice their faith while receiving an excellent education.
  • Students studying at a Christian college in Nebraska are still eligible for financial aid as long as the school is regionally accredited.

Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska

Sort by:
  1. Creighton University
  2. Nebraska Wesleyan University
  3. Midland University
  4. Hastings College
  5. College of Saint Mary
  6. Concordia University Nebraska
  7. Union College, Nebraska
  8. York University
  1. Creighton University
  2. Nebraska Wesleyan University
  3. Midland University
  4. Hastings College
  5. College of Saint Mary
  6. Union College, Nebraska
  7. Concordia University Nebraska
  8. York University
  1. Union College, Nebraska 99%
  2. Concordia University Nebraska 91%
  3. Nebraska Wesleyan University 81%
  4. Creighton University 76%
  5. Hastings College 71%
  6. Midland University 65%
  7. College of Saint Mary 65%
  8. York University 57%
  1. Midland University 14 to 1
  2. Hastings College 12 to 1
  3. Concordia University Nebraska 12 to 1
  4. Creighton University 11 to 1
  5. York University 11 to 1
  6. Nebraska Wesleyan University 11 to 1
  7. College of Saint Mary 8 to 1
  8. Union College, Nebraska 8 to 1
  1. Creighton University $45,590
  2. Nebraska Wesleyan University $39,868
  3. Midland University $38,300
  4. Concordia University Nebraska $37,720
  5. Hastings College $34,580
  6. Union College, Nebraska $27,170
  7. College of Saint Mary $22,450
  8. York University $20,900
  1. Union College, Nebraska $28,896
  2. College of Saint Mary $21,103
  3. Creighton University $17,496
  4. Midland University $13,668
  5. Hastings College $10,920
  6. Nebraska Wesleyan University $8,050
  7. Concordia University Nebraska $7,650
  8. York University $5,100
  1. York University
  2. Union College, Nebraska
  3. Concordia University Nebraska
  4. College of Saint Mary
  5. Hastings College
  6. Midland University
  7. Nebraska Wesleyan University
  8. Creighton University
  1. York University
  2. Concordia University Nebraska
  3. Union College, Nebraska
  4. College of Saint Mary
  5. Hastings College
  6. Midland University
  7. Nebraska Wesleyan University
  8. Creighton University
  1. York University 57%
  2. College of Saint Mary 65%
  3. Midland University 65%
  4. Hastings College 71%
  5. Creighton University 76%
  6. Nebraska Wesleyan University 81%
  7. Concordia University Nebraska 91%
  8. Union College, Nebraska 99%
  1. College of Saint Mary 8 to 1
  2. Union College, Nebraska 8 to 1
  3. Creighton University 11 to 1
  4. York University 11 to 1
  5. Nebraska Wesleyan University 11 to 1
  6. Hastings College 12 to 1
  7. Concordia University Nebraska 12 to 1
  8. Midland University 14 to 1
  1. York University $20,900
  2. College of Saint Mary $22,450
  3. Union College, Nebraska $27,170
  4. Hastings College $34,580
  5. Concordia University Nebraska $37,720
  6. Midland University $38,300
  7. Nebraska Wesleyan University $39,868
  8. Creighton University $45,590
  1. York University $5,100
  2. Concordia University Nebraska $7,650
  3. Nebraska Wesleyan University $8,050
  4. Hastings College $10,920
  5. Midland University $13,668
  6. Creighton University $17,496
  7. College of Saint Mary $21,103
  8. Union College, Nebraska $28,896

Colleges and Universities in Nebraska

Christian colleges in Nebraska can give you an excellent education while also providing a strong Christian foundation. Students in Nebraska can choose from numerous excellent and highly respected undergraduate and graduate programs at the best Christian schools in the state. Many of the top schools in Nebraska are noted for their affordability as well.

Nebraska has 12 religiously affiliated institutions, including those with Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, and Lutheran influences. Eight of those schools made our ranking for the best Christian colleges in the state.

If you are looking for a college experience that merges academia with your faith and spiritual growth, the best Christian colleges in Nebraska can fit the bill.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.


What are Nebraska’s Colleges & Universities?

Nebraska’s Best Overall

The following list of the best Christian schools consists entirely of colleges and universities that offer four-year undergraduate degrees. We’ve identified 8 Christian colleges in Nebraska. In order to be included in this ranking list of best Christian colleges and universities, a school must self-identify as Christian, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

students studying the Bible together
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Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska 2023

  1. #1

    Creighton University

    Omaha , NE
    #5 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #1 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $46K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1313/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Creighton University

    Cost of Degree: $45,638
    Expenses: $15,830
    Starting Salary: $70,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Creighton University known for?

    Creighton University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Creighton University is a private Jesuit-affiliated Catholic research university founded in 1878. Aside from the academic programs at Undergraduate, Graduate and Certificate levels, the institution also offers Dual Degrees (such as in the fields of Law and Medicine) and Professional Development programs. Some post-baccalaureate programs are offered in either online or hybrid formats.

    What we love about Creighton University:

    At least 99% of the University’s graduates are employed in graduate school or service within six months after finishing their program.

    Creighton University is ideal for students who:

    Are pursuing a career in Law, Medicine or Business Administration.

    Creighton University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Have strong Protestant affiliation or any Christian affiliation that contradicts Jesuit values.

    Creighton University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Leadership
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSEMS in Emergency Medical Services
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Healthy Lifestyle Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Nebraska Wesleyan University

    Lincoln , NE
    #3 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Nebraska Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $39,868
    Expenses: $15,874
    Starting Salary: $52,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Nebraska Wesleyan University known for?

    Nebraska Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Established in 1887, Nebraska Wesleyan University is a private university affiliated with the United Methodist. The University currently has more than 85 Undergraduate and Graduate programs, including fully online Masters in Nursing and Business Administration programs. Dual Credit programs are available to high school students.

    What we love about Nebraska Wesleyan University:

    NWU trains its students to become competent in rational communication and thinking so that they can become lifelong learners and be of service to the community.

    NWU is ideal for students who:

    Want to make the most of their educational experience by engaging in service, research, internships, or study abroad programs.

    NWU might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a laid-back approach to achieving their personal and career goals.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Midland University

    Fremont , NE
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #9 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Midland University

    Cost of Degree: $38,300
    Expenses: $14,690
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Midland University known for?

    Midland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Established as a private Christian liberal arts school, Midland University is Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)-affiliated. It is open to everyone from all religious backgrounds. It currently offers at least 30 Undergraduate academic programs and at least 20 online Graduate programs.

    What we love about Midland University:

    The University guides students to become successful in their careers while also encouraging participation in extracurricular activities like athletics, student organizations, and art.

    Midland University is ideal for students who:

    Prefer a small class size where professors can provide individualized attention to their success.

    Midland University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are seeking a wide variety of options when it comes to Undergraduate or Graduate programs.

    Compare school
    4. a student leading others in a Bible study
  5. #4

    Hastings College

    Hastings , NE
    #2 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #7 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hastings College

    Cost of Degree: $34,580
    Expenses: $15,332
    Starting Salary: $47,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hastings College known for?

    Hastings College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Presbyterian Church-affiliated Hastings College is a four-year private residential institution offering a range of Majors, Minors and Pre-Professional programs in various fields. It upholds academic excellence with an emphasis on providing experiential learning, internships and study-abroad programs.

    What we love about Hastings College:

    Around 90% of the professors at this College hold doctorate or terminal degrees, reflecting the quality of education being provided by the institution.

    Hastings College is ideal for students who:

    Thrive in a small class size where faculty members can provide one-on-one guidance for their success.

    Hastings College might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are easily distracted from their studies, considering the college is active in national sports and on-campus organizations.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    College of Saint Mary

    Omaha , NE
    #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Acceptance

    65%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at College of Saint Mary

    Cost of Degree: $22,450
    Expenses: $12,716
    Starting Salary: $43,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is College of Saint Mary known for?

    College of Saint Mary’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    The College of Saint Mary was established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1923 as a is a Catholic women’s college. Currently, it offers a variety of academic programs at Undergraduate and Graduate levels, a handful of which are available in online or hybrid learning formats.

    What we love about the College of Saint Mary:

    CSM’s commitment to service-learning opportunities and academic excellence helps women gain a great sense of confidence and self-worth.

    CSM is ideal for students who:

    Thrive in an all-women academic community.

    CSM might not be the best fit for students who:

    Get easily distracted from their studies due to the various events, concerts and other activities on and off campus.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Concordia University Nebraska

    Seward , NE
    #8 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Nebraska

    Cost of Degree: $37,720
    Expenses: $13,630
    Starting Salary: $44,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Concordia University Nebraska known for?

    Concordia University Nebraska’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Concordia University Nebraska is a private, co-educational university established by The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod in 1894. It currently offers 75 Undergraduate programs in 11 fields of interest and 23 Graduate programs, available 100% online, at Certificate and Master’s degree levels. A Dual Credit program is also offered.

    What we love about Concordia University Nebraska:

    At least 81% of the University’s full-time professors possess the highest degree possible in their field of study.

    Concordia University Nebraska is ideal for students who:

    Want to be in a university where at least 98% of its graduates are getting employed or attending graduate schools within the first six months after their graduation.

    Concordia University Nebraska might not be the best fit for students who:

    Don’t prefer a university with a small-town vibe.

    Concordia University Nebraska’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Union College, Nebraska

    Lincoln , NE
    #7 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Union College, Nebraska

    Cost of Degree: $27,170
    Expenses: $13,550
    Starting Salary: $47,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Union College, Nebraska known for?

    Union College, Nebraska’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Established in 1891, Union College (Nebraska) is a private school that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It currently offers 50 academic programs at Undergraduate and Graduate levels, as well as Professional Workforce Development programs. Some courses at Union are offered online.

    What we love about Union College, Nebraska:

    Union College provides active learning experiences in a Christian environment to guide students in finding their leadership, service and scholarship potential.

    Union College, Nebraska, is ideal for students who:

    Prefer a class size of 8 or smaller for individualized support from professors.

    Union College, Nebraska, might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are looking for several options on Master’s degree programs.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    York University

    York , NE
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #12 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    962/20

    Career Outlook for degree at York University

    Cost of Degree: $20,950
    Expenses: $12,050
    Starting Salary: $39,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is York University known for?

    York University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    York University was founded in 1890 initially as a church-related college and was revived as an institution affiliated with the Church of Christ in 1956. Today, this private liberal arts University offers 24 Baccalaureate Majors, two Master’s programs, and eight Pre-Professional programs. Online degree programs at Associate, Bachelor and Master-degree levels are also available.

    What we love about York University:

    The University provides books at no cost, and at least 98% of students are awarded financial aid.

    York University is ideal for students who:

    Are seeking an academic community that enriches their faith to pursue spiritual growth, as the University is committed to providing Christ-centered education.

    York University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a campus with an urban appeal.

    York University ’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
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Nebraska’s Best Christian Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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a student reading the Bible to two other students

Student Submitted Questions about Christian Colleges in Nebraska

Will I receive the same quality of education in a Christian college that I would receive at a traditional secular four-year school?

Each of the Christian colleges in this ranking are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). HLC is an institutional accreditor, which ensures that students receive a quality higher education.

Can I apply for financial aid when I attend a Christian college in Nebraska?

Yes, as long as the college is accredited through the HLC, regardless of its religious affiliation, students can apply to receive financial aid. For more information on how to apply, visit the Federal Student Aid website.

Can I attend a Christian college in Nebraska even if I am not a Christian?

There are many religiously-affiliate colleges that accept students who do not profess any faith. However, it is always a good idea to contact the admissions department at the college to discuss.

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Creighton University
  2. Nebraska Wesleyan University
  3. Hastings College
  4. Union College, Nebraska
  5. Midland University
  6. Concordia University Nebraska
  7. York University
  8. College of Saint Mary
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