Accredited Degree Programs, Scholarships and Resources for Top Schools
Between the state's K-12 programs, community colleges, state colleges and private colleges, Nebraska offers a wide range of online courses. During the 2013-2014 school year, over 7,500 students in Nebraska were enrolled in at least one online course. Students in K-12 use the Nebraska Online Instruction Source for supplemental courses, blended courses or video conferencing, but the state currently has no fully-online K-12 schools. Multiple public and private universities offer online degree programs and courses in a variety of subjects and degree levels at the post-secondary level.
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Best Online Colleges in Nebraska
Methodology
During the 2016-2017 school year, 80.5% of students in Nebraska enrolled in at least one online course. Multiple public and private universities offer online degrees and courses for undergraduate and graduate students in Nebraska. This guide covers important information for students considering online schools and colleges in Nebraska, including financial aid opportunities, programs for nontraditional learners, and helpful resources for current and prospective students.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Creighton University
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners searching for a high-quality education can consider Creighton University. Along with providing in-person programs, the private institution offers 25 online options. Many online programs require no set class times or in-person components, making them ideal for learners with other responsibilities.
Virtual learning environments provide opportunities for enrollees to connect with professors and peers. Academic opportunities often include research projects, internships, and independent studies. Learners also gain access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, and receive academic and professional guidance throughout the duration of their program.
The institution delivers funding to eligible applicants, reducing the overall cost of earning a degree. Financial aid officers help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and fellowships. To fund their degree, 99% of enrollees use financial aid, and many receive other types of funding.
#2 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can enroll in the University of Nebraska at Kearney's online programs to earn their degree remotely. The public school offers 25 online programs for degree-seekers throughout the country. With rigorous course requirements, the institution's online programs prepare its 4,095 distance learners for professional success.
In the online classroom environment, enrollees can communicate with peers and instructors through means such as email and videoconferencing. In addition to completing general education requirements, learners take advanced courses in their field. Academic advisors help students choose electives that align with their professional aspirations. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
To minimize student debt, applicants should consider various forms of funding. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible students.
#3 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in attending online classes can research remote offerings from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In addition to in-person programs at its campus, the public school's academic options include 16 online programs. Online resources such as tutoring and library access help the institution's 12,449 online learners succeed academically.
Online enrollees can use the virtual classroom environment to communicate individually and foster professional relationships with peers and faculty members. After completing general education requirements, learners take advanced classes in their area of interest. Students discuss their plans with academic advisors to select electives that match their goals and interests. Experiential learning opportunities such as research projects and internships allow enrollees to gain experience while bolstering their resume.
Applicants should contact the financial aid office to receive information about potential costs and funding options. Potential funding options for students include federal financial aid, institutional awards, and private scholarships.
#4 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With top-quality online programming, the University of Nebraska at Omaha provides a variety of options for students pursuing their degree online. Degree-seekers can pursue in-person programs in Omaha or enroll in one of the public school's 24 online options. The institution enrolls 7,996 learners in its online programs and delivers virtual resources to foster their academic success.
Online enrollees can network with peers and receive assistance from instructors through the virtual classroom environment. Although requirements vary by program, online learners complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. Academic advisors help students customize their program based on their goals, while ensuring they remain on track to graduate. Enrollees can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.
The financial aid office provides information about the cost of earning a degree from the school. In addition to institutional funding, students may receive awards from third-party organizations or the federal government.
#5 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University is a leader in online education. Along with educating enrollees at its Nebraska-based campus, the school offers 79 distance programs for its 11,008 online enrollees. Online programs offer flexible scheduling options, which can be ideal for working professionals and other busy learners.
Online students at the institution benefit from an online learning community, which can lead to professional connections. In collaboration with faculty members and colleagues, learners can pursue research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their subject field. Enrollees can access institutional resources such as academic and career guidance, which help individuals succeed in their program and profession. Mock interviews help students prepare to secure positions in their field after graduation.
When preparing for the cost of education, applicants can speak with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. The federal government supports enrollees with financial need through loans, grants, and work-study programs. Based on the school's reported information, 84% of the student body receives financial aid of some type.
#6 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Concordia University, Nebraska
Seward, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
While attending Concordia University, Nebraska, students can choose from online programs across fields. With a main campus in Seward, the school educates enrollees through in-person classes, along with 737 online programs. Working professionals in online programs can complete assignments and class requirements on evenings and weekends.
The institution's online learning environment features opportunities for students to receive academic support and connect with peers. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, help learners bolster their resume and prepare for the workforce. Institutional resources, such as job boards and the alumni network, can help enrollees locate job opportunities after graduation. As they near completion of their program, students can participate in career workshops to prepare to secure employment after graduation.
Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. Enrollees often receive scholarships from third parties such as professional organizations and private donors. According to the school, 100% of students receive financial aid.
#7 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Peru State College
Peru, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Regardless of their professional aspirations, enrollees can receive a high-quality education through Peru State College's online programs. The school's eight online programs provide a plethora of options for its 1,233 distance learners. Along with working professionals, students with children often pursue online learning because of the increased flexibility it offers.
Enrollees studying online can receive individual assistance by connecting with professors through email and videoconferencing. Internship opportunities allow degree-seekers to practice field-specific skills while bolstering their resume. Students can discuss their academic path with departmental advisors, who provide important insights into their field. Learners can participate in mock interviews, career workshops, and job fairs.
Program costs vary based on the student's field. Applicants can contact an admissions counselor for details about program costs. To minimize student debt, enrollees should apply for any funding for which they are eligible, including federal aid, scholarships, and institutional awards.
#8 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Chadron State College
Chadron, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Chadron State College delivers top-quality educational programming in an online format. In addition to on-campus programs in Nebraska, the school delivers 15 online programs. Working professionals in online programs can complete assignments and class requirements on evenings and weekends.
Online students at the institution can connect with peers and professors through forums and email. Through experiential learning opportunities, learners gain field-specific practical skills they can apply to professional roles after graduation. Career counselors help enrollees identify the best professional path for them and prepare to find and secure jobs after graduation. Students nearing degree completion can use options including career workshops and mock interviews to improve their qualifications and expand their professional network.
Financial aid counselors assist applicants with locating the best funding options to minimize student debt and reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans and grants. The school indicates that 96% of students are awarded financial aid.
#9 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Wayne State College
Wayne, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Wayne State College offers top-ranked online degrees for learners seeking flexible study. The school provides nine options for online students, with programs available in many fields. The institution's enrollment includes 1,371 online degree-seekers, who take classes remotely.
Students can access support and resources through the online learning community. Online learning allows participants to network with peers throughout the country. In addition to coursework, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to gain practical skills and bolster their resume. Institutional resources including online academic advising to help distance learners select classes that match their professional goals. Professional resources include mock interviews and resume assistance.
To reduce the financial burden of higher education, eligible students can apply for financial aid. To receive the most funding possible, learners can apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and any other awards for which they qualify. To fund their education, 95% of the institution's enrollees receive financial aid.
#10 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health delivers online degrees that prepare enrollees for professional roles in a variety of fields. The school's 23 online programs provide a plethora of options for its 696 distance learners. With flexible scheduling options, the institution's online programs make higher education more accessible for students with families and full-time employment.
Online enrollees who take opportunities to connect with peers may leverage their network to access job opportunities after graduation. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which degree-seekers can gain by completing internships. Students can access academic advising to ensure they remain on track to graduate. Learners can attend job fairs to meet prospective employers and develop their professional network.
Some classes require additional fees. Applicants should speak with an admissions counselor to determine exact costs. The federal government assists eligible enrollees through scholarships, grants, and low-interest student loans.
#11 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Clarkson College
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clarkson College delivers top-quality educational programming in an online format. The school's 1,046 online enrollees can pursue 18 program options in a distance format. Busy learners who need flexible scheduling options can choose asynchronous online programs to complete coursework around other obligations.
The institution's online learning environment features opportunities for students to receive academic support and connect with peers. Research projects present opportunities for learners to bolster their resume while contributing knowledge to their field. Institutional resources, such as job boards and the alumni network, can help enrollees locate job opportunities after graduation. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
Financial aid counselors provide insights for applicants exploring funding options and determining the best way to pay for school. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans and grants. According to the school, the number of degree-seekers receiving financial aid amounts to 78% of the student body.
#12 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
York College
York, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
York College offers online programs of premier quality. Delivering seven online programs in various fields, the school educates 91 online enrollees, in addition to those studying on campus in Nebraska. With flexible enrollment options, online programs often allow learners to begin their studies more quickly.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. In collaboration with faculty members and colleagues, learners can pursue research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their subject field. Career counselors connect enrollees with resources such as job boards and resume assistance. Career workshops allow students to develop their professional network and explore their career options.
For applicants who need help determining the best funding options for their situation, the financial aid office provides support and insights. Enrollees who demonstrate financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. The school indicates that 100% of students are awarded financial aid.
#13 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
While completing the University of Nebraska Medical Center's online programs, enrollees develop field-specific knowledge and practical skills that apply to roles across industries. The 818 learners who study online receive the same high-quality education as the school's on-campus students. Students who want to work full time while in school often choose online programs, which feature higher levels of flexibility than on-campus options.
Enrollees can participate in asynchronous class discussions and email professors for individual assistance. Experiential learning opportunities include internships and original research projects. Students can discuss their academic path with departmental advisors, who provide important insights into the field. Learners find support and guidance as they near the end of their program and have the option to participate in career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Many of the institution's programs feature unique fees. Applicants can discuss the exact cost of earning a degree with an admissions counselor. Merit-based and need-based awards can help enrollees reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
#14 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Metropolitan Community College
Omaha, NE - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in attending online classes can research remote offerings from Metropolitan Community College. The Nebraska-based public school's offerings include on-campus programs and 20 online options for remote degree-seekers. The institution enrolls 4,444 learners in its online programs and delivers virtual resources to foster their academic success.
After enrolling, online enrollees connect with fellow colleagues, faculty members, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Although requirements vary by program, online learners complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. With many course options, students can seek help from academic advisors to select classes aligning with their long-term goals. Enrollees can complete experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships, to gain professional experience.
The financial aid office provides information about the cost of earning a degree from the school. Eligible students may receive institutional scholarships and awards from external organizations.
#15 Best Online Schools and Colleges in Nebraska
Southeast Community College
Lincoln, NE - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students can enroll in Southeast Community College's online programs to earn their degree remotely. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus in Lincoln, Nebraska, the public school offers 11 online programs. To succeed in their online program, the institution's 4,012 distance learners can take advantage of virtual resources, such as digital library materials.
Online enrollees communicate with peers and professors in a virtual classroom environment. Curricula include general education requirements, which help learners develop soft skills that apply to careers across industries. Students discuss their plans with academic advisors to select electives that match their goals and interests. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
Applicants can contact the financial aid office for details about program costs and funding opportunities. Potential funding options for students include federal financial aid, institutional awards, and private scholarships.
City Spotlight: Colleges in Nebraska
Omaha, NE
Omaha is a well-educated city. Per the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly a third of the city's residents have earned bachelor's degrees or higher, which beats state and national averages. Choices for higher education institutions range in size from nearly 30,000 to about 400 students. Some of the major occupations in Omaha, such as finance, health services and education, require postsecondary education to prepare industry professionals.
Several local institutions provide online education for students in Omaha. According to U.S. News & World Report, the University of Nebraska at Omaha ranks No. 20 nationally for its online bachelor's degree programs. UNO offers a variety of master's and certificate programs as well as individual courses. For online credits, a UNO transcript looks no different than for a student attending the school's physical campus.
Colleges and Universities in Omaha
COLLEGE | SIZE | TUITION | TYPE |
---|---|---|---|
University of Nebraska at Omaha | 17,617 | $5,050 | Public |
Creighton University | 8,826 | $30,484 | Not For Profit (Private) |
University of Nebraska Medical Center | 3,748 | $7,920 | Public |
Clarkson College | 1,312 | $10,272 | Not For Profit (Private) |
College of Saint Mary | 1,227 | $23,870 | Not For Profit (Private) |
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health | 934 | $11,520 | Not For Profit (Private) |
Grace University | 579 | $16,016 | Not For Profit (Private) |
Metropolitan Community College Area | 32,650 | $2,160 | Public |
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Nebraska?
With so many options, choosing an online college or university in Nebraska can feel overwhelming. Prospective students can search the Open Education Database, which offers an annotated list of the state's online schools, to help narrow their choices. The following resource also provides helpful information about Nebraska's online colleges and universities.
Search All Accredited Schools in Nebraska
How Much More Do College Grads in Nebraska Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average Nebraska worker earns $46,710 per year, which is higher than the national average. Nebraska's comparatively high median wage is largely due to the state's sizeable agribusiness, renewable energy, and financial services industries, all sectors that need an educated workforce.
Nebraska professionals can advance their careers and increase their salary potential by earning a degree. As the following table illustrates, higher levels of educational attainment typically correlate with higher salaries.
Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree |
---|---|---|
$28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 |
Bachelor's Degree | Master's Degree | Doctoral Degree |
---|---|---|
$62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: BLS
Paying for Online College in Nebraska: Tuition and Financial Aid
Nebraska students enjoy lower-than-average tuition rates. For example, Nebraska's average in-state tuition rate is $8,188 compared to the national average of $9,037, while Nebraska's average out-of-state tuition rate is $20,555 compared to the national average of $25,567. Students attending online schools and colleges in Nebraska can also take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of their education.
In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
---|---|---|
$8,168 | $20,555 | $9,037 (In-State) $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
---|---|---|
$23,659 | N/A | $30,731 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Nebraska
When weighing their education costs, students should consider factors beyond tuition, such as online fees and travel expenses. The following list covers several cost considerations for online students in Nebraska.
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Type of Institution: Private schools typically cost more than public schools. Additionally, state universities often charge less than flagship schools, and community colleges usually charge the lowest tuition rates.
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Online Tuition Compared to On-Campus Tuition: Online programs may offer different pricing structures than on-campus programs. For example, some online programs allow all students to pay in-state tuition rates regardless of where they live.
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Technology Costs: Some online programs charge a one-time or recurring technology fee to help cover the costs of online course administration.
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Travel Expenses: Some online colleges in Nebraska may require students to attend on-campus sessions during the program. Tuition does not include travel expenses for these sessions.
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Financial Aid Opportunities: Students should consider financial aid opportunities, such as loans, scholarships, and grants, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Nebraska
Students can qualify for in-state tuition at Nebraska schools in one of several ways, such as living in Nebraska for 12 consecutive months. Students can also establish residency by marrying a Nebraska resident, holding refugee status, or serving as a member of the U.S. military stationed in Nebraska.
Paying for College in Nebraska: Scholarships and Financial Aid
Students at online colleges and schools in Nebraska can take advantage of scholarships and grants to help pay for their education. We cover several scholarship and grant opportunities for Nebraska students below.
Scholarships for Nebraska College Students
Future Farmers of America Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Future Farmers of America offers five scholarship opportunities. Both FFA members and non-members may apply. Application requirements vary by scholarship.
Amount: $1,000-$2,000
The Susan T. Buffett Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Nebraska residents who graduated from a Nebraska high school or earned a Nebraska GED and hold a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA qualify for this opportunity. Recipients must attend a Nebraska college or university.
Amount: Varies
Black Employee Network (BEN) Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: African American students who are not employees or dependents of employees of The Union Pacific Railroad may apply. Decision-makers evaluate applicants based on factors like leadership experience and scholastic achievement.
Amount: Up to $2,000
EducationQuest Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Nebraska residents who demonstrate financial need can apply for this opportunity. The program encourages applications from first-generation students, minority students, and students who face significant obstacles to higher education.
Amount: $250-$2,500
Reaching Your Potential Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: This scholarship serves low-income students who face obstacles to attending college. Applicants need a referral from a school or community agency in Nebraska.
Amount: $2,900 for two-year college students and $5,900 for four-year college students
Grants for Nebraska College Students
Federal TEACH Grant Program
Who Can Apply: Applicants must be enrolled in a TEACH grant-eligible program, hold a 2.5 GPA or better, and meet several other requirements to qualify for this grant
Amount: Up to $4,000 per year
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
Who Can Apply: Students must demonstrate exceptional financial need through the FAFSA to qualify for this grant. Applicants must also qualify for the Federal Pell Grant.
Amount: Varies
Collegebound Nebraska
Who Can Apply: Nebraska residents who are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant qualify for this opportunity.
Amount: The difference between other financial aid and the cost of tuition
Nebraska Opportunity Grant
Who Can Apply: Nebraska residents attending college in the state whose Expected Family Contribution per the FAFSA falls within the grant's guidelines qualify for this state-funded aid.
Amount: $1,410
Federal Pell Grant
Who Can Apply: This federal grant helps low-income students pay for college. Applicants' income must align with the grant's FAFSA Expected Family Contribution requirements.
Amount: Up to $5,775
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Nebraska
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards and benefits students in several ways. For example, only students at accredited schools qualify for financial aid, and many schools only accept and recognize transfer credits and degrees from regionally accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire graduates with an accredited degree.
Regional and National Accreditation
Schools may hold regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, technical and vocational schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two. There are several independent regional accrediting bodies that accredit schools based on their location. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Nebraska schools.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Some programs within a school may also hold accreditation, such as nursing programs, which are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Several fields require professionals to hold a degree from an accredited program to qualify for licensure or certification.
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Most schools and programs feature their accreditation status on their websites. Students can also verify a program or school's accreditation status by searching the Council on Higher Education Administration's directory or the Department of Education's database.
Online College and Adult Education in Nebraska
Nebraska offers many learning opportunities for nontraditional students. We cover several adult education programs and resources in the following sections.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Nebraska
26,481 Nebraska students are taking all of their courses online.
Almost 39% of Nebraska's online students do not reside in the state.
About 81% of Nebraska's college students take at least one online course.
Source: The Distance Education State Almanac 2017
Adult Education Programs for Nebraska Students
- Earn My GED: An initiative of Central Community College, Earn My GED provides instruction for Nebraska residents seeking a GED. Participants must be at least 16 years old and not enrolled in high school.
- English as a Second Language: This program offers ESL instruction for students aged 16 and older who are not enrolled in high school. Seven locations host the program.
- Adult Education and Nebraska GED®: This state-sponsored initiative offers assistance to learners studying for high school equivalency exams. The website provides a map of all participating locations around the state along with information on testing accommodations.
Online College Resources for Nebraska Students
Prospective and current online students in Nebraska can take advantage of many resources to support their studies. The following resources provide information on topics like financial aid opportunities, program availability, and the state's community colleges.
- The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation: The CINC Foundation comprises 13 higher education institutions. The website provides links to member schools plus information on business partnerships, academic collaborations, and foundation-sponsored events.
- EducationQuest Foundation: This website offers information about college admissions, planning, and financial aid opportunities. The site also contains links to the FAFSA and scholarship databases.
- Nebraska State College System: This website offers information about Nebraska's three publicly funded, four-year state colleges: Peru State College, Wayne State College, and Chadron State College.
- The Nebraska Community College Association: This website allows students to search for Nebraska community colleges by program and region. It also provides information on the history of Nebraska's community colleges.
- Nebraska's Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education: Through this resource, students can find financial aid information, higher education data, and changes to relevant laws in Nebraska.