Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in Nebraska offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
Best Grad Schools in Nebraska
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- Creighton University
- University of Nebraska Omaha
- Bellevue University
- Doane University
- College of Saint Mary
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- Creighton University
- University of Nebraska Omaha
- Bellevue University
- Doane University
- College of Saint Mary
- University of Nebraska Omaha 86%
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln 79%
- Creighton University 76%
- Doane University 76%
- College of Saint Mary 65%
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln 16 to 1
- University of Nebraska Omaha 15 to 1
- Bellevue University 13 to 1
- Creighton University 11 to 1
- Doane University 10 to 1
- College of Saint Mary 8 to 1
- Creighton University $45,590
- Doane University $38,990
- College of Saint Mary $22,450
- Bellevue University $8,790
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln $7,770
- University of Nebraska Omaha $6,344
- College of Saint Mary $21,103
- Creighton University $17,496
- Bellevue University $11,340
- Doane University $8,743
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln $6,138
- University of Nebraska Omaha $6,138
- College of Saint Mary
- Doane University
- Bellevue University
- University of Nebraska Omaha
- Creighton University
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- College of Saint Mary
- Doane University
- Bellevue University
- University of Nebraska Omaha
- Creighton University
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln
- College of Saint Mary 65%
- Doane University 76%
- Creighton University 76%
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln 79%
- University of Nebraska Omaha 86%
- College of Saint Mary 8 to 1
- Doane University 10 to 1
- Creighton University 11 to 1
- Bellevue University 13 to 1
- University of Nebraska Omaha 15 to 1
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln 16 to 1
- University of Nebraska Omaha $6,344
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln $7,770
- Bellevue University $8,790
- College of Saint Mary $22,450
- Doane University $38,990
- Creighton University $45,590
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln $6,138
- University of Nebraska Omaha $6,138
- Doane University $8,743
- Bellevue University $11,340
- Creighton University $17,496
- College of Saint Mary $21,103
Colleges and Universities in Nebraska
Students can choose from 29 higher learning institutions, including community colleges, technical institutes, religious colleges, and public universities. Of the 15 public campuses, the University of Nebraska - Lincoln is the largest, with over 22,000 students. Coming in under the national average, the university’s tuition rate is $9,000, and students can earn their degree in fields such as law, mathematics, communication, and sociology.
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The most affordable schools in the state are its six community colleges with tuition ranging from $3,000 to $4,000. Nebraska also has 12 religiously affiliated institutions, including those with Methodist, Presbyterian, Catholic, and Lutheran influences. At $40,000 in tuition, Creighton University is both the largest and most expensive of these schools, and it boasts a 95% employment rate after graduation.
As one of the largest corn producers in the country, it’s no wonder Nebraska’s nickname is The Cornhusker State. The state is also home to an unusual monument - Carhenge. Replicating England’s famous Stonehenge, this structure is made out of vintage American automobiles that have been painted gray and lodged into the ground. With the Great Plains, over 20,000 square miles of sand dunes, and a portion of the Badlands, Nebraska offers a unique setting for students looking to earn their associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree.
Mental health, dental, and other health care professionals working in shortage areas can apply for loan repayment awards through the Nebraska Loan Repayment Program. Doctors and dentists may qualify for up to $200,000.
Come check out the top programs and earn your degree in Nebraska.
What are Nebraska’s Colleges & Universities?
- 3 Research Universities
- 13 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 6 Graduate Schools
- 6 Public Colleges & Universities
- 10 Private Colleges & Universities
- 8 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 11 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 8 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 7 Community Colleges
- 12 Online Colleges
Nebraska’s Best Overall
There are 6 doctorate-granting graduate schools in Nebraska. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the Nebraska is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2023
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Research Universities in Nebraska 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Nebraska
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Wyoming
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
- #3 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #3 Best Online Master's in English
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #4 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #5 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #6 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
- #6 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #9 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #9 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #12 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #15 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #15 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #16 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #20 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
- #22 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #24 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
65%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Cost of Degree: $9,620Expenses: $17,210Starting Salary: $52,700Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Nebraska–Lincoln known for?
University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #1 Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in Nebraska 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024
- #4 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #7 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #9 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #17 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #5 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #5 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
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: $45,638Expenses: $15,830Starting Salary: $70,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Creighton University known for?
Creighton University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Research Universities in Nebraska 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Nebraska
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
- #20 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
49%
Student body
18K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Nebraska Omaha
Cost of Degree: $8,136Expenses: $15,532Starting Salary: $49,300Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Nebraska Omaha known for?
University of Nebraska Omaha’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Communications
- Biology
- Business
- Physics
- History
- Chemistry
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Wyoming 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Nebraska
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #5 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2024
- #6 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
- #12 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #23 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #10 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #16 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
41%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for degree at Bellevue University
Cost of Degree: $8,790Expenses: $16,395Starting Salary: $60,500Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bellevue University known for?
Bellevue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
61%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Doane University
Cost of Degree: $38,990Expenses: $16,630Starting Salary: $48,200Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Doane University known for?
Doane University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Economics
- Education
- Nursing
- Business
- History
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #8 Best Christian Colleges 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: $22,450Expenses: $12,716Starting Salary: $43,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is College of Saint Mary known for?
College of Saint Mary’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Nebraska’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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.