University of Nebraska-Lincoln
University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a public university in Lincoln, NE ranked #384 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B+, enrolling about 19,178 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 87.5%. Students most often pursue Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods and Computer Engineering.
Day to day, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 86.0% first-year retention, and 67.0% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $17,747, about $749 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -32.8%, roughly 118.1 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $47,692. That's about $4,004 higher than national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln has an acceptance rate of 87.5%, annual tuition of $10,434, average net price of $17,747, and a national rank of #384 (Grade B+), with a 67.0% six-year graduation rate, about 19,178 undergraduates, and median earnings of $47,692 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is University of Nebraska-Lincoln Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates 67.0% of students within six years and keeps 86.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use University of Nebraska-Lincoln'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 | $10,434 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,100 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $14,120 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,000 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,697 |
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 22.8% of University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 $12,751 to $22,346 depending on family income. Use University of Nebraska-Lincoln's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $18,975/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $22,346/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $47,692
- 10-Year Median Earnings $47,692
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $14,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 74.1%
- Employment Rate 93.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of Nebraska-Lincoln's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of Nebraska-Lincoln's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduates earn $47,692 median, the -32.8% 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 560-670
- SAT Math 538-660
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 22-28
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 19,178
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 86.0%
- Graduation Rate 67.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into University of Nebraska-Lincoln
1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 87.5%, University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 87.5% acceptance rate, University of Nebraska-Lincoln is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1098 and 1330 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of Nebraska-Lincoln undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Finance and Financial Management Services, and Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 6.4%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 5.0%
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi 4.7%
- Psychology, General 4.7%
- Marketing 4.1%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 3.5%
See more majors
- Family and Consumer Economics and Related Studies 3.5%
- Mechanical Engineering 3.2%
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. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $109,323
- 2. Computer Engineering $105,749
- 3. Computer and Information Sciences, General $104,063
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $97,890
- 5. Construction Engineering Technologies $91,651
- 6. Chemical Engineering $89,055
- 7. Mechanical Engineering $84,216
- 8. Civil Engineering $79,612
- 9. Finance and Financial Management Services $77,155
- 10. Agricultural Mechanization $74,776
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Engineering, General (Master's Degree) $133,929
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $125,688
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $103,011
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $94,289
- 5. Mathematics (Doctoral Degree) $88,956
- 6. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Doctoral Degree) $88,137
- 7. Education, Other (Doctoral Degree) $87,374
- 8. Law (First Professional Degree) $86,484
- 9. Psychology, General (Doctoral Degree) $81,435
- 10. Architecture (First Professional Degree) $68,841
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods grads earn $109,323—46% more than Agricultural Mechanization ($74,776). Graduate: Engineering, General programs lead with $133,929 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. 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
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 298 graduates)
- Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degree, 232 graduates)
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication (Bachelor's Degree, 221 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 220 graduates)
- Marketing (Bachelor's Degree, 190 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 (104 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Psychology, General
- Marketing
- Family and Consumer Economics and Related Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Mechanical Engineering
- Accounting and Related Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Biology, General
- Civil Engineering
- Journalism
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Political Science and Government
- Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Animal Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Computer Engineering
- International/Global Studies
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Plant Sciences
- Construction Engineering Technologies
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Sociology
- Communication and Media Studies
- History
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences, Other
- Special Education and Teaching
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Chemical Engineering
- Economics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Design and Applied Arts
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
- Apparel and Textiles
- Architecture
- International Business
- Interior Architecture
- Architectural Engineering
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Music
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Chemistry
- Construction Management
- Security Science and Technology
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Philosophy
- Agriculture/Veterinary Preparatory Programs
- Agricultural Engineering
- Physics
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Landscape Architecture
- Anthropology
- Geography and Cartography
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Agricultural Public Services
- Soil Sciences
- Construction Engineering
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Dance
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians
- Area Studies
- Agricultural and Food Products Processing
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Public Policy Analysis
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Insurance
- Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
- Industrial Engineering
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Housing and Human Environments
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Gerontology
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Business Services
- Engineering, Other
- Engineering, General
- Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Forestry
- Computer Science
Online Master's Degrees (61 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Accounting and Related Services
- Architecture
- Architectural Engineering
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Mechanical Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Music
- Animal Sciences
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Special Education and Teaching
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Civil Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Mathematics
- Agricultural Engineering
- Statistics
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Physics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Anthropology
- Food Science and Technology
- Political Science and Government
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Nutrition Sciences
- Marketing
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Biology, General
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- History
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Construction Engineering
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other
- Economics
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Museology/Museum Studies
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Geography and Cartography
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, Other
- Engineering, Other
- Engineering Mechanics
- Communication and Media Studies
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Botany/Plant Biology
Online Doctoral Degrees (44 programs)â–¼
- Engineering, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Chemistry
- Education, Other
- Plant Sciences
- Psychology, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- English Language and Literature, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Civil Engineering
- Biological/Biosystems Engineering
- Music
- Biology, General
- Animal Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
- Statistics
- Philosophy
- Mechanical Engineering
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Communication and Media Studies
- Chemical Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- History
- Geography and Cartography
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Architectural Engineering
- Sociology
- Economics
- Nutrition Sciences
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Marketing
- Communications Technology/Technician
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Engineering, Other
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Botany/Plant Biology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (14 programs)â–¼
- Special Education and Teaching
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Sociology
- Journalism
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Anthropology
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 19,178
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 50.2%
- Female Students 49.8%
- Caucasian 75.5%
- Asian 4.1%
- Hispanic 9.6%
- Black 2.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 22.8%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of Nebraska-Lincoln's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of University of Nebraska-Lincoln's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 University of Nebraska-Lincoln, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: The student body is 75.5% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 22.8% 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 University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 University of Nebraska-Lincoln, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
University of Nebraska-Lincoln serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #384 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $17,747 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $47,692 median earnings. The 67.0% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 86.0% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Strengths
Ranked #384 with a B+ grade, University of Nebraska-Lincoln prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like University of Nebraska-Lincoln excel at providing affordable education ($17,747 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: University of Nebraska-Lincoln's 86.0% retention and 67.0% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($47,692 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, University of Nebraska-Lincoln and $17,747 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 67.0% six-year graduation rate sits 4.5 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 86.0% first-year retention is 9.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -32.8% return on investment is 118.1 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $47,692 run about 9% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $17,747 is roughly $350 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 86.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 93.4% employment rate within three years sits 25.2 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $17,747 is about $350 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 22.8% trails the national share by 16.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a public university in Lincoln, NE, secures a B+ grade in our latest review. It holds a #384 national ranking Category results include Completion (B+), Support (B), Career Outcomes (B+), and Affordability (B-).
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: 86.0% retention and 67.0% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -32.8% for this program.
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 $17,747 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,697.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,950 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $14,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 22.8% 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
Graduates report median earnings of about $47,692 six years after entry. This is roughly 9% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
The three-year employment rate is close to 93.4%.
Plan around an ROI of about -32.8% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
87.5% 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 University of Nebraska-Lincoln 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 University of Nebraska-Lincoln's acceptance rate?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln's acceptance rate is 87.5%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does University of Nebraska-Lincoln cost?
At University of Nebraska-Lincoln, listed tuition and fees are $10,434 per year, and the average net price after aid is $17,747. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is University of Nebraska-Lincoln's ranking?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln ranks #384 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is University of Nebraska-Lincoln's graduation rate?
At University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the six-year graduation rate is 67.0%, and first-year retention is 86.0%.
What are University of Nebraska-Lincoln's job outcomes?
Graduates of University of Nebraska-Lincoln report median earnings of $47,692 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is University of Nebraska-Lincoln's student population?
University of Nebraska-Lincoln enrolls about 19,178 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Lincoln, NE 68588-0419
- Website www.unl.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$1.29B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate20.0%