At $16,488/yr net price, University of Nebraska at Kearney graduates earn $50,105/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $16,105/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,488 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $65,952 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,105/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,105/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 59.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,187/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,627/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,549/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $18,575/yr |
| $110,001+ | $20,731/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $58,479 | $26,250 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $53,358 | |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $52,607 | $14,388 |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $50,606 | $38,500 |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Certificate | $50,606 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $50,439 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $49,464 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $48,641 | $24,989 |
| Biology, General. | Master | $48,432 | $32,000 |
| Fine and Studio Arts. | Master | $48,432 | $25,237 |
The Risk Factor
59.8% of students at University of Nebraska at Kearney graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
University of Nebraska at Kearney offers decent financial returns for a regional public university, with median earnings of $50,105 outpacing the relatively modest debt load of $19,500. The key is choosing your major carefully.
Educational administration leads earnings at $58,479, making it worthwhile despite higher debt of $26,250. Computer science and special education both deliver solid returns above $52,000, with special education offering particularly good value at just $14,388 in debt. Communication disorders pays well at $50,606 but requires taking on $38,500 in debt, creating a riskier financial picture.
The graduation rate of 59.8% presents the biggest financial risk. Four out of ten students leave without a degree, wasting time and money. The 76.6% retention rate suggests many struggles happen after freshman year, often due to academic challenges or financial pressures.
UNK works best for Nebraska residents planning careers in education, healthcare, or regional business who want affordable training without leaving the state. The low net price of $16,488 makes it accessible for middle-class families. You should look elsewhere if you need prestige for competitive fields or want access to major metropolitan job markets.
Only 33.5% of students receive need-based aid, suggesting merit scholarships may be available for strong applicants. The combination of low costs and manageable debt makes UNK a solid choice for students who pick marketable majors and complete their degrees, but the graduation rate means you need to be realistic about your ability to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Nebraska at Kearney worth the cost?
UNK offers decent value with a relatively low net price of $16,488 annually and moderate debt levels at $19,500. However, the 10-year median earnings of $50,105 and 59.8% graduation rate suggest mixed returns on investment.
What are the best paying majors at University of Nebraska at Kearney?
Educational Administration leads UNK's earnings at $58,479, followed by Computer Science at $53,358. Most other top programs cluster around $50,000-$52,000, which is reasonable but not exceptional for the region.
How much debt do University of Nebraska at Kearney graduates have?
UNK graduates carry a median debt of $19,500, which is below the national average. This manageable debt load helps offset the school's modest earning potential for most graduates.
Does University of Nebraska at Kearney have good job placement?
With a 59.8% graduation rate and 10-year earnings around $50,000, UNK shows average outcomes. The school works best for education and regional careers, but students seeking higher-paying fields may find better options elsewhere.