Concordia University-Nebraska
Concordia University-Nebraska is a private nonprofit university in Seward, NE ranked #998 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B, enrolling about 1,283 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 85.7%. Students most often pursue Business/Commerce and Biology.
Day to day, students benefit from a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, 79.5% first-year retention, and 64.9% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $23,965, about $6,967 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -585.7%, roughly 138.8 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $44,527. That's about $839 higher than national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Concordia University-Nebraska has an acceptance rate of 85.7%, annual tuition of $40,640, average net price of $23,965, and a national rank of #998 (Grade B), with a 64.9% six-year graduation rate, about 1,283 undergraduates, and median earnings of $44,527 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Concordia University-Nebraska Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Concordia University-Nebraska graduates 64.9% of students within six years and keeps 79.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Concordia University-Nebraska's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $40,640 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,070 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $10,850 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,865 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $53,292 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 11.4% of Concordia University-Nebraska students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,107 to $26,433 depending on family income. Use Concordia University-Nebraska's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $25,401/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $26,433/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $44,527
- 10-Year Median Earnings $44,527
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $18,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 77.4%
- Employment Rate 90.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Concordia University-Nebraska graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Concordia University-Nebraska vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Concordia University-Nebraska's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Concordia University-Nebraska's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Concordia University-Nebraska graduates earn $44,527 median, the -53.5% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,283
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 79.5%
- Graduation Rate 64.9%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 14:1
How to Get Into Concordia University-Nebraska
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Concordia University-Nebraska requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 85.7%, Concordia University-Nebraska is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 85.7% acceptance rate, Concordia University-Nebraska is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Concordia University-Nebraska undergraduates. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Biology, General, and Business/Commerce, General draw the most students.
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 22.3%
- Biology, General 10.6%
- Business/Commerce, General 10.3%
- Psychology, General 7.5%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 4.8%
- Behavioral Sciences 4.1%
See more majors
- Theological and Ministerial Studies 4.1%
- Religious Education 3.4%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Business/Commerce, General $67,419
- 2. Biology, General $57,767
- 3. Theological and Ministerial Studies $52,175
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $47,488
- 5. Health and Physical Education/Fitness $45,264
- 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas $43,086
- 7. Religious Education $40,341
- 8. Psychology, General $37,323
- 9. Behavioral Sciences $37,273
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $91,374
- 2. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $85,531
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $71,540
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Public Health (Master's Degree) $66,528
- 5. Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Master's Degree) $60,453
- 6. Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Master's Degree) $58,863
- 7. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $56,893
- 8. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $56,446
- 9. Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $55,771
- 10. Curriculum and Instruction (Master's Degree) $55,734
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Business/Commerce, General grads earn $67,419—81% more than Behavioral Sciences ($37,273). Graduate: Business/Commerce, General programs lead with $91,374 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Concordia University-Nebraska. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 65 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 31 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 14 graduates)
- Behavioral Sciences (Bachelor's Degree, 12 graduates)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 12 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (36 programs)â–¼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Biology, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Behavioral Sciences
- Religious Education
- History
- Communication and Media Studies
- Design and Applied Arts
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Music
- Physics
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Marketing
- International/Global Studies
- Geography and Cartography
- Accounting and Related Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religious/Sacred Music
- Public Health
- Physical Sciences
- Business/Corporate Communications
- Special Education and Teaching
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Education, General
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Agriculture, General
Online Master's Degrees (3 programs)â–¼
- Human Services, General
- Religious Education
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)â–¼
- Religious Education
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Religious/Sacred Music
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,283
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 48.9%
- Female Students 51.0%
- Caucasian 73.1%
- Asian 0.6%
- Hispanic 5.8%
- Black 1.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 11.4%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Concordia University-Nebraska's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Concordia University-Nebraska's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Concordia University-Nebraska support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Concordia University-Nebraska, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The student body is 73.1% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 11.4% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Concordia University-Nebraska support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Concordia University-Nebraska, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Concordia University-Nebraska offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -53.5% ROI. Ranked #998 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $23,965 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $44,527 median earnings. With 64.9% graduating within six years and 79.5% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Concordia University-Nebraska's Positioning
With a B grade and #998 ranking, Concordia University-Nebraska competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $23,965 annually, Concordia University-Nebraska charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 79.5% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $16,776 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -53.5% ROI and $44,527 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $13,965+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Concordia University-Nebraska ranks #998 of 6101 institutions, with 1165 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 64.9% six-year graduation rate sits 2.4 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 79.5% first-year retention is 2.7 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -53.5% return on investment is 138.8 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $44,527 run about 2% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $23,965 is roughly $6,568 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 14:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 79.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.4% employment rate within three years sits 22.2 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $23,965 is about $6,568 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 11.4% trails the national share by 27.7 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Concordia University-Nebraska—a private nonprofit university in Seward, NE—at B overall. It holds a #998 national ranking Grades by category break down as Completion B+, Support B, Career Outcomes B, and Affordability C.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 79.5% retention and 64.9% six-year graduation. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -53.5%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $23,965 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $53,292.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $29,327 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $18,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 11.4% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $44,527 at the median. That sits about 2% above the national median.
Roughly 90.4% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -53.5%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
85.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Concordia University-Nebraska admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Concordia University-Nebraska's acceptance rate?
Concordia University-Nebraska's acceptance rate is 85.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Concordia University-Nebraska cost?
At Concordia University-Nebraska, listed tuition and fees are $40,640 per year, and the average net price after aid is $23,965. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Concordia University-Nebraska's ranking?
Concordia University-Nebraska ranks #998 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Concordia University-Nebraska's graduation rate?
At Concordia University-Nebraska, the six-year graduation rate is 64.9%, and first-year retention is 79.5%.
What are Concordia University-Nebraska's job outcomes?
Graduates of Concordia University-Nebraska report median earnings of $44,527 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Concordia University-Nebraska's student population?
Concordia University-Nebraska enrolls about 1,283 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Seward, NE 68434-1556
- Website www.cune.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$70.8M