University of Nebraska at Omaha

The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers a moderate return on investment, with median 10-year earnings of $53,909 compared to $19,000 in median debt. The value is particularly strong for in-state students due to lower tuition.

The graduation rate at the University of Nebraska at Omaha is 47.3%.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is not highly selective, with an admission rate of 87.0%.

Graduates of the University of Nebraska at Omaha can expect median earnings of $53,909 ten years after entry.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha has an affordability score of 90, largely driven by its low in-state tuition of $8,718. Out-of-state tuition is considerably higher.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) has a relatively high admission rate of 87.0%, indicating that it is an accessible institution for a broad range of students. This suggests that while academic merit is considered, UNO prioritizes providing educational opportunities to a diverse student body. To be admitted, prospective students typically need a high school diploma or GED. While specific GPA or standardized test score cutoffs are not rigidly defined due to the high acceptance rate, maintaining strong academic performance in high school is always beneficial. For students applying, ensuring all application materials are submitted by the deadlines is crucial. UNO often looks for a solid academic record, but also considers the overall application. Students with slightly lower academic profiles may still be considered, especially if they demonstrate potential through essays or extracurricular activities. The high acceptance rate means that while admission is not guaranteed, it is generally not considered highly competitive, making it a viable option for many seeking a public university education in the region.

For Nebraska residents, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) offers a strong value proposition. The in-state tuition is $8,718 per year, leading to an estimated four-year cost of around $34,872 for tuition alone. With a median 10-year earning potential of $53,909, graduates can expect to earn significantly more than their educational investment. The median debt of $19,000 is also quite manageable. This suggests a relatively quick payback period for student loans, potentially within the first year or two of employment. The ROI score of 55 indicates a solid financial return. For out-of-state students, the tuition jumps to $23,206 annually, making the four-year tuition cost approximately $92,824. While this increases the financial burden, the strong regional job market in Omaha, particularly in finance and healthcare, can still lead to a positive return if graduates secure local employment. Overall, UNO is a financially sound choice for in-state students and a reasonable option for out-of-state students willing to leverage the local job market.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) excels in several program areas, particularly those aligned with the strengths of the Omaha metropolitan economy. The College of Business Administration is highly regarded, offering strong programs in Finance, Accounting, and Management, which feed directly into the city's robust financial and insurance sectors. Graduates from these programs are sought after by major employers like Mutual of Omaha and Wells Fargo. The College of Information Science & Technology is another standout, preparing students for high-demand roles in Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Software Engineering, with companies like Fiserv and PayPal actively recruiting. For students interested in healthcare, the College of Public Affairs and Community Service offers excellent programs in Nursing and Health Sciences, leading to employment at major healthcare systems such as CHI Health and Nebraska Medicine. Additionally, programs in Political Science and Public Administration within the College of Public Affairs and Community Service are strong, preparing students for careers in government and non-profit sectors, often finding roles within state and local government agencies.

Student life at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is characterized by its urban setting and a focus on academic and professional development, complemented by a growing campus community. As a metropolitan university, UNO offers a different experience than a traditional residential campus. While many students commute, there are on-campus housing options available for those seeking a more immersive experience. The campus features a variety of student organizations, clubs, and intramural sports, providing avenues for social engagement and leadership development. The university also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with the Strauss Performing Arts Center and the Barbara Hibner Dance Center hosting regular performances. Sporting events, particularly for the UNO Mavericks athletics teams, foster a sense of school spirit. Given its location in Omaha, students have easy access to the city's amenities, including restaurants, entertainment venues, and internship opportunities, blending academic pursuits with real-world experiences.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. This includes federal aid like Pell Grants and federal student loans, as well as state aid programs specific to Nebraska residents. UNO also offers institutional aid in the form of merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, and need-based grants. Specific scholarship opportunities exist for incoming freshmen, transfer students, and current students, often tied to specific majors or academic departments. For example, the College of Business Administration and the College of Information Science & Technology often have dedicated scholarships. Prospective students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine their eligibility for federal and state aid. UNO's financial aid office also provides resources and counseling to help students navigate the application process and understand their aid packages, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of attendance.

Graduates from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) can expect a solid earning potential, particularly when entering fields aligned with the regional economy. The university reports a median 10-year earning of $53,909. However, salaries can vary significantly by major. For instance, graduates from the College of Business Administration, especially in finance and accounting, often secure starting salaries in the $50,000-$65,000 range, with potential for growth into six figures within a decade, particularly in the insurance and banking sectors. Those from the College of Information Science & Technology, particularly in cybersecurity and software development, can expect competitive starting salaries often ranging from $60,000-$80,000, with strong demand driving rapid salary increases. Graduates in nursing and health sciences from the College of Public Affairs and Community Service typically start in the $55,000-$70,000 range, with excellent job security and advancement opportunities within local healthcare systems. Social sciences and humanities graduates may see slightly lower starting salaries, but often find fulfilling careers with good long-term earning potential, especially in public service or non-profit management.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) offers on-campus housing primarily through its two main residence halls: Scott Hall and Maverick Village. Scott Hall is a traditional-style dormitory offering double-occupancy rooms with shared floor bathrooms, providing a classic college living experience. It houses a diverse student population, including freshmen and upperclassmen. Maverick Village offers apartment-style living, with suite-style rooms that typically house four students in two bedrooms, sharing a bathroom. This option provides more privacy and amenities, often appealing to upperclassmen or students seeking a quieter environment. Both housing options provide basic furnishings, including a bed, desk, and closet space for each student. On-campus living at UNO includes access to common areas, study lounges, and community kitchens. The university emphasizes creating a supportive living-learning environment, with Resident Advisors (RAs) available to assist students. While UNO is a metropolitan university with a significant commuter population, its on-campus housing provides a valuable option for students seeking the traditional campus experience and community.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) offers research opportunities, particularly for undergraduate students, though it is not classified as a top-tier research university like some larger flagship institutions. UNO emphasizes faculty-mentored research, allowing students to engage in projects across various disciplines. The Office of Research and Creative Activity (ORCA) supports student research through grants, stipends, and opportunities to present findings at symposiums like the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Fair. Key areas for student research often align with faculty expertise and regional strengths, including fields within the College of Information Science & Technology (e.g., cybersecurity, data analytics), the College of Business Administration (e.g., market research, financial modeling), and the College of Public Affairs and Community Service (e.g., public health, social policy). While the scale of research may be smaller compared to major R1 universities, UNO provides accessible and valuable hands-on research experiences that can enhance a student's academic profile and prepare them for graduate studies or research-oriented careers.

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is a public metropolitan university that competes with other regional public universities and some smaller private institutions. Its closest peers often include other universities within the University of Nebraska system (like UNK) and neighboring state institutions such as the University of Northern Iowa or Wichita State University. Compared to these peers, UNO often stands out for its strong ties to the Omaha business community, particularly in finance, insurance, and IT, offering robust internship and job placement opportunities within these sectors. Its urban setting provides unique access to city resources and professional networks that might be less developed at more rural or suburban campuses. However, UNO may lag behind larger flagship state universities (like the University of Iowa or University of Kansas) in terms of national rankings, research funding, and the breadth of graduate programs. Its admission rate is also generally higher, making it more accessible than some more selective institutions. The cost, especially for in-state students, is often more competitive than many comparable universities outside of Nebraska.

Employers in the Omaha metropolitan area and the broader Midwest generally hold a positive view of degrees from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), particularly for programs aligned with regional economic strengths. Companies in finance, insurance, and healthcare frequently recruit from UNO, recognizing the quality of graduates from its College of Business Administration and College of Public Affairs and Community Service (especially nursing). The College of Information Science & Technology is also gaining recognition, with local tech firms and larger corporations seeking its graduates for roles in IT, cybersecurity, and data analysis. Employers appreciate that UNO graduates often possess practical skills and a strong understanding of the local business environment, thanks to internship opportunities and faculty connections. While UNO may not have the same national brand recognition as larger, more prestigious universities, its reputation within Nebraska and surrounding states is solid. For roles requiring specific technical or business acumen relevant to the region, a UNO degree is seen as a reliable credential, often leading to successful career placement and advancement.