Online Schools In Nebraska
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The Georgetown Center on Education and Workforce projects that the demand for professionals with postsecondary education will increase through 2020. The same data says that 38% of Nebraskan employers look for candidates with some college or vocational school experience, while 24% require a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, 8% want incumbents to hold a master's or doctoral degree in their field. The fastest growing occupations listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects require postsecondary education. The increased availability and flexibility of online schooling makes college available to more people than ever. This article seeks to provide pertinent information and resources about affordable online degrees in Nebraska.
There are multiple factors to consider when selecting an online program. The ranking below considers the breadth of distance programs, student-to-teacher ratios, student resources, and job availability for graduates. This ranking also places particular emphasis on affordability. This includes average financial aid awards, the percentage of students receiving scholarships from their school, and average tuition for full-time students. Nebraskan college students can find detailed information in the list below.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Nebraska's Top Affordable Online Colleges
#1
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lincoln, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 78% |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
49%
|
A top online institution, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a public school. Online enrollment for the institution's distance learning courses totals 12,449.
Remote learners use a virtual classroom environment to complete the coursework for their online degree. Students often meet in-person requirements with internships or clinical practicums in their local area. Academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring are some examples of student services that schools provide exclusively for online learners. The institution's experiential learning opportunities help graduates transition into the workforce.
The school grants online degrees at an affordable tuition rate. Financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships, are available to qualified online students at the accredited institution.
#2
Bellevue University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Bellevue, Nebraska |
| Graduation Rate | 24% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
95%
|
A private institution located in Nebraska, Bellevue University ranks among the best online schools. Distance learners choose from 54 online bachelor's programs at the accredited online school. The institution's distance learning courses currently enroll 11,008 students.
Remote learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment to earn their degree. Students can complete internships, practicums, and other in-person requirements for many programs in their local area. Many schools offer student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring for online learners. Graduates leave their program prepared to transition to the workforce because of the many experiential learning opportunities offered by the institution.
Students can earn their online degree at the school at an affordable tuition rate. Financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships, are available to qualified online students at the accredited institution.
#3
University of Nebraska at Kearney
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kearney, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 56% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
65%
|
A public institution, the University of Nebraska at Kearney operates on-campus and online programs. Distance learners and those on campus choose from many available programs at the accredited school. The college enrolls 4,095 virtual students total. Degree-seekers can enter a bachelor's program delivered entirely online.
Many of the top-choice majors are available for learners to study. Being able to fit earning a degree around other responsibilities and obligations is why many degree-seekers like the virtual learning environment of online programs. Working professionals looking to further their careers with a degree find many programs at the school designed with them in mind. A total of nine online bachelor's programs and 14 online master's programs are available to distance learners at the institution.
Most degree-seekers earn their bachelor's in about four years. Students with prior college experience can transfer their credits toward a four-year degree to graduate in less time. Contacting the school will help interested applicants learn more about admission criteria and application deadlines.
#4
Chadron State College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chadron, Nebraska |
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
75%
|
Chadron State College is a four-year public college located in Nebraska. The institution offers both residential and online undergraduate and graduate programs. Virtual learners pursue degrees from a catalog of 49 total options. The school administers programs in the liberal arts and professional education. Students can earn degrees in a variety of majors.
Instructors deliver curricula blending theoretical learning and practical experiences such as internships and fieldwork. Online students complete on-campus requirements for some programs. However, many students complete bachelor’s degrees online with no campus visits. Instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom. The college provides services such as online tutoring in various subjects. Degree-seekers often afford for their education with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. Distance learners pay the same tuition rates regardless of residency status. The school awards an average total aid of $6,906.
Chadron State College has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
#5
University of Nebraska at Omaha
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Omaha, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 83% |
| Graduation Rate | 50% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
53%
|
The country's best online colleges include the University of Nebraska at Omaha among their ranks. Distance learners at the accredited institution choose from eight online bachelor's programs. The school's academic offerings also include six online master's programs. Currently, 7,996 distance learners enroll at the university.
The school teaches 6,562 degree-seekers as a public institution. Online learners nationwide attend classes virtually. Several student services are available for the institution's online enrollees. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services are available to students at the online school.
The online college meets the needs of many different degree-seekers with programs available in top-choice majors. Remote learners leave the school with an accredited degree that meets the requirements for many different career paths. Affordability is prioritized at the institution.
#6
York College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | York, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 57% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
18%
|
A private institution, York College features online and in-person programs at its Nebraska campus. Students all over the country enroll in online programs at the school. The college meets the needs of many learners by offering online programs in top-choice majors in healthcare, business, and STEM fields.
Undergraduate and graduate learners find many online program options at the school. General education classes impart foundational knowledge to undergraduate degree-seekers. Enrollees also take advanced classes in their field of study. Graduate students participate in seminars and build advanced skills in their online courses.
Reaching out to the school can help prospective students learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. The accredited institution connects enrollees with opportunities for financial aid.
York College at a Glance:
Total Number of e-Learners Enrolled: 91
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 4
Acceptance Rate: 57%
Student Graduation Rate: 47%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
#7
Clarkson College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Omaha, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 46% |
| Graduation Rate | 38% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
94%
|
Online students at Clarkson College receive the same rigorous education as on-campus peers. The private school enrolls students in 18 top-ranked online programs. Enrollees receive a rigorous education in the school's bachelor’s and graduate programs. Various factors attract students to online learning.
The school’s online programs offer benefits such as asynchronous scheduling and affordability. Distance learners can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. Many institutions no longer require test scores. Applicants to the school can expect a 46% admission rate. Clarkson College has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Clarkson College at a Glance:
Institution Status: Private
Online Students: 1,046
Available Online Degrees: 18
Online Bachelor’s Programs: 3
Tuition Rates for Undergrad: $13,392 in-state and out-of-state
Rate of Admission: 46%
#8
Peru State College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Peru, Nebraska |
| Graduation Rate | 34% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
58%
|
Peru State College is one of the nation's top online colleges. The accredited institution's distance learners have six online bachelor's programs to choose from. Graduate students pursue two online master's programs. The school's online enrollment totals 1,233 distance learners.
As a public institution in Nebraska, the school enrolls 379 degree-seekers. Virtual learners complete their courses online from anywhere in the nation. The institution tailors some of its student services for online enrollees. Students at the online school get access to academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.
The online college's programs are available in many popular majors that appeal to different degree-seekers. The school awards accredited degrees that prepare remote learners for many different positions in the workforce. The institution also prioritizes affordability.
#9
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Omaha, Nebraska |
| Admission Rate | 97% |
| Graduation Rate | 69% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
62%
|
A private institution located in Omaha, Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health ranks among the best online schools. A total of six online bachelor's programs are available to distance learners at the accredited online school. The institution currently enrolls 696 students in its online courses.
Getting to complete coursework from anywhere is just one benefit of an online degree's virtual classroom environment. Program advisors help arrange for students to complete internships, practicums, and other in-person requirements in their local area. Schools often make student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring available to online learners. Graduates leave their program prepared to transition to the workforce because of the institution's many experiential learning opportunities.
The school offers many affordable online degrees. Federal aid programs and scholarships are just some examples of the kinds of financial aid online students at the accredited institution can qualify for.
#10
Wayne State College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Wayne, Nebraska |
| Graduation Rate | 51% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
35%
|
Wayne State College offers a total of 66 programs from its campus located in Nebraska. The public institution features both on-campus and online programs. Degree-seekers in online programs enjoy a 21-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and a flexible, accessible format. Busy students and working professionals benefit from top-ranking programs designed with them in mind.
Online programs feature virtual learning environments in which remote learners communicate with teachers and peers. They learn important skills and information for their chosen field. Students develop in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem solving in classes that cover the general education requirements. Distance learners at the online school benefit from the support of academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. Enrollees graduate with an accredited degree.
Wayne State College Fast Facts:
Total Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs Available: 6
Why Choose Nebraska for Online Higher Education?
Higher education institutions understand that their students increasingly need access to coursework outside of traditional classrooms. In Nebraska students have access to 48 programs offering completely online coursework. These accredited programs explore the full span of knowledge within each content area. Online universities in Nebraska currently provide distance education to over 18,000 students in the U.S. and internationally.
- Number of Programs Offered Completely Online in Nebraska 48
- Undergraduate Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in Nebraska 7,677
- Graduate Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in Nebraska 10,605
- Total International Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in Nebraska 106
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost of Attending an Online College in Nebraska
While online education removes geographical barriers, out-of-state distance learners should consider tuition rates. The data below reveals that out-of-state students attending four-year public institutions in Nebraska typically pay more than double of what residents pay. Likewise, out-of-state students attending two-year public schools pay about $1,000 more than residents. While online programs offered at traditional brick and mortar schools apply nonresident tuition fees, online-only schools may charge one flat rate for all students. Students can also establish residency within 12 months of application to qualify for in-state tuition.In-state tuition$7,446 – public, four-year institution $2,852 – public, two-year institution Out-of-state tuition:$18,651 – public, four-year institution $3,910 – public, two-year institution
Source: National Center for Education Statistics, 2017 Explore Online Degree Programs in NebraskaSearch Program
Nebraska schools charge less than the national average for both in-state tuition and out-of-state tuition at four-year public schools. Similarly, average tuition for two-year institutions in Nebraska also fall below the national average.
Students should be aware of the many factors that influence tuition. On-campus tuition rates often include housing, meal plans, and lab fees, while distance learners often pay for digital resources needed for online coursework. The list below includes examples of base tuition rates in Nebraska.
- Public, 4-Year University:University of Nebraska Kearney, $255
- Private, 4-Year University:Doane University, $314
- 2-Year College:Wayne State College, $177
Considering a Nebraska School as an Out-of-State Student
Nearly 9,000 nonresident students earning a bachelor's or master's degree attend classes completely online in Nebraska. While most Nebraskan universities charge out-of-state tuition fees, students may qualify for reduced rates through reciprocity agreements. Students should note that requirements often vary by state, and participation varies by university or college.
Out-of-State Undergraduate Students Studying Exclusively Online in Nebraska 3,537
Out-of-State Graduate Students Studying Exclusively Online in Nebraska 5,430
Tuition Discounts
Nebraska is one of 10 member states in the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC), an organization that oversees reciprocity agreements between multiple states. Through the MHEC, public and nonprofit schools charge out-of-state students no more than 150% of what residents pay, while private schools reduce fees by 10%. While the amount of savings varies by school, between 2017-2018, Nebraska reported that their students saved about $1,167,480. While the MHEC recognizes all public, private, and nonprofit schools in each state, students should note that schools retain the right to limit participation.
State Authorizations for Online Learning
The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) strives to make education more accessible. Schools affiliated with SARA strive for uniform standards which can help students avoid unnecessary tuition costs. While a state may hold active membership, schools can choose not to participate. Currently, 25 schools in Nebraska hold SARA approval. Students should also note that SARA covers individual classes, as well as entire programs. Students should verify the coverage level of their chosen program.Check with an admissions or financial officer.
Tuition rates are ultimately program- and institution based. Ask someone from a prospective program about what rates apply to you specifically as a potential member of a specific program. Explore Online Degree Programs in NebraskaSearch Program
Frequently Asked Questions About Nebraska's Online Schools
It is common for students to have questions when making choices regarding their continued education. The section below contains commonly asked questions regarding online education in Nebraska.
Students should be clear about their academic needs, as online tuition varies by school. Students concerned with affordable rates may want to consider a public or nonprofit university over a private school.
The most affordable online programs in Nebraska often reduce overall cost by not having a physical location. As online programs continue to emerge, students should ensure their chosen schools are fully accredited, either regionally and nationally.
Generally, schools in Nebraska accept a maximum of 60 credits from two-year institutions, while some schools accept up to 90 credits from four-year schools. Students who live in states that participate in the MHEC or SARA qualify to transfer their credits as long as they submit official transcripts and meet the school's transfer admission standards. All students should ensure their current program holds regional accreditation. Students from nationally accredited programs may only transfer to other nationally accredited schools.
The Nebraska Department of Education provides detailed transfer information on their Transfer Nebraska webpage. Students should select the Nebraska school they wish to attend and which institution they are transferring from. If students cannot find information about their degree, they should contact the university directly for additional information. Many schools have a credit evaluation policy that highlights important requirements and outcomes. For instance, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has an online equivalency list that allows students to search for their institution and obtain detailed information about the transfer process and compatibility.
GED Testing Service data reveals that 98% of colleges and universities accept the GED as a valid credential. In fact, American Council on Education data indicates that over 18 million people have earned a GED since the creation of the exam in the 1940s, with 800,000 taking the exam last year alone. Students must take the GED exam at an approved facility with a proctor. The GED exam has the same rigorous standards as a high school diploma. In fact, GED Testing Service data indicates that only 60% of graduating high school seniors could pass the exam on their first attempt. The exam includes 2,250 points. While 145 is the standard passing score, states can raise the base standard if they choose. In Nebraska, students must earn a 600 on the exam to pass.
Traditional schools often follow fall, spring, and summer enrollment dates to boost selectivity and accommodate the demand of the screening process. However, many online schools offer flexible enrollment dates to appeal to as many students as possible. Many online learners identify as nontraditional students who have family and professional obligations. This makes the increased flexibility offered by online programs increasingly attractive.
School enrollment flexibility varies by school. For instance, Chadron State College has rolling admissions, multiple start dates, and follows eight-week course structures. Similarly, Concordia University Nebraska offers multiple online programs that follow shorter semester structures, which allows students to begin classes throughout the year. On the other hand, Clarkson College offers start dates every six weeks for their accelerated programs. While some schools offer multiple start dates for all of their degrees, some schools only offer flexible enrollment for some programs. Students should check if their degree path qualifies by visiting the school's website, or contacting the admissions office.
Almost all public and private schools will accept the FAFSA. To qualify for the FAFSA, students should only consider online programs that hold a valid regional or national accreditation. Additionally, students should consider enrollment status as it impacts eligibility. Students must maintain at part-time enrollment at minimum to qualify for assistance.
Financial aid provides a variety of funding, which includes unsubsidized and subsidized Stafford loans, Perkins loans, grants, and work study. Students should be aware that many online schools do not offer work study. However, some schools might offer research work study placements that would allow students and mentors to work remotely.
Free classes exist throughout Nebraska. For example, the University of Nebraska offers a four-week course on advanced biocontainment in healthcare facilities. This course prepares students to handle patients suffering from an extreme pathogen. The University of Nebraska also offers a health literacy and communication for health professionals course where students explore educational strategies for increasing health literacy and communication skills. Course objectives include understanding target populations, consequences of poor health communication, and the role of health literacy in other disciplines.
At Creighton University, students can enroll into a free class on navigating professional and personal interactions. The course teaches students strategies for effective decision making and conflict resolution, with a focuses on self improvement and personal growth. Nebraska Wesleyan University offers four free online courses including social psychology, modern and postmodern history courses, craft and plot creative writing, and a craft of setting and description creative writing course. These course range from 4-7 weeks in length.
The Nebraska Commission for Postsecondary Education website contains valuable information about higher education institutions in the state. To find the best online programs in Nebraska, students can look through the state directory of postsecondary institutions. The state government site also includes a college navigator tool, which allows students to search schools based on specific criteria. This tool also allows students to do side-by-side comparisons.
Additionally, the state site offers students college planning assistance through EducationQuest and Nebraska Career Connections. EducationQuest helps students identify the best schools for their academic goals, complete the FAFSA, find scholarships, and explore career options. Similarly, the Nebraska Career Connections program offers free materials to students who plan to pursue a career in Nebraska. The Nebraska.gov website also includes detailed information about financial aid, scholarship, and grant opportunities. Explore Online Degree Programs in NebraskaSearch Program
Nebraska Scholarships and Grants
Financial concerns are a major factor for many prospective students. Fortunately for people seeking to pursue an online degree in Nebraska, many learners qualify for financial aid. The Pell Grants cover a large portion of tuition and requires no repayment. Students earning an advanced degree or who do not qualify for grants may still qualify for scholarships. The list below contains possible options.
TEACH Early Childhood Nebraska Education
TEACH Early Childhood Nebraska Education majors who are pursuing a career path in childhood education in Nebraska may apply. Students earning an associate degree must work at least 30 hours per week. Students earning a bachelor's degree must already hold an associate degree or have completed the required courses. Graduates must work in their sponsor center for at least 18 months after graduation.
Scholarship Amount: Varies
A.B. and M.R. Noel Endowed Scholarship
The Lincoln Community Foundation has provided this scholarship to help students in the Wood River area since 2008. Students majoring in nursing, dental hygiene, or electrical technology receive preference. Additionally, student who can prove community or academic involvement receive preference. Applicants must have a minimum 2.8 GPA
Scholarship Amount: $500
Lucy Mora Barrientos Scholarship
The Barrientos Scholarship Foundation strives to help ambitious students pay for their education. Applicants must show proof of financial need and demonstrate how they contribute to their community. Students must submit two letters of recommendation that discuss the applicant's moral character.
Scholarship Amount: $2,500
Dick & Chris Draper Scholarship
The Lincoln Community Foundation offers this scholarship to high school students with at least a 3.25 GPA. Application requires copies of high school transcripts and three letters of recommendation.
Scholarship Amount: $2,500
ULN Scholarship
The Urban League of Nebraska offers scholarships to graduating high school students. Applicants must submit their official transcripts, and two recommendation letters. Additionally, applicants must provide a 250-500 word essay discussing personal goals, and reasons they qualify to receive this scholarship. Students must have a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Scholarship Amount: Varies
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