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Small Colleges in Nebraska

28 schools in Nebraska. See our methodology.

Healthcare education dominates Nebraska's small college scene, with three of the top four institutions specializing in medical training. Clarkson College leads with a 75% graduation rate and graduates earning $64,876 annually, while Universal College of Healing Arts achieves a perfect 100% graduation rate despite enrolling just 27 students. The state's agricultural heritage appears in specialized programs like Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, where students pay only $13,843 net price and earn $56,887 after graduation. Community colleges serve as affordable pathways, with Mid-Plains and Central Community College offering education for under $7,000 annually. These institutions connect directly to Nebraska's economy, feeding talent into major employers like Mutual of Omaha, UNMC medical facilities, and the state's expanding agricultural technology sector. Graduation rates span dramatically from 35.5% to 100%, reflecting the varied missions of institutions serving rural communities versus specialized professional programs. The 28 small colleges collectively serve students across Nebraska's varied market, from Omaha's urban medical centers to agricultural communities in Curtis and North Platte.
28
Schools
$18,157
Avg. Net Price
$50,600
Avg. Earnings
53.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Small Colleges in Nebraska

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 611 $15,928 75.0% 56.1%
2 27 $20,862 100.0%
3 534 $25,884 75.5% 67.6%
4 228 $13,843 56.9%
5 2,464 $8,812 55.8%
6 3,041 $15,108 55.7%
7 4,231 $32,380 80.5% 75.7%
8 752 $19,474 66.7% 90.5%
9 923 $6,602 45.6%
10 3,206 $6,781 44.8%
11 455 $14,986 59.4% 64.6%
12 4,130 $16,488 59.8% 86.0%
13 1,634 $13,308 38.1%
14 1,141 $11,401 37.7%
15 948 $4,974 35.5%
16 1,514 $23,140 68.9% 81.5%
17 443 $20,129 37.4% 57.3%
18 10 $32,278 42.9%
19 957 $21,554 53.3% 71.3%
20 981 $28,071 55.9% 75.8%
21 17 $18,188 66.7% 66.7%
22 1,270 $24,016 64.1% 90.8%
23 330 $22,070 16.7%
24 1,191 $24,229 43.2% 64.9%
25 439 $20,884 45.9% 98.8%
26 861
27 177 $10,687 16.7%
28 25

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Nebraska's small colleges unique compared to other states?

Healthcare specialization sets Nebraska apart, with medical colleges like Clarkson and Bryan achieving 75% graduation rates. The state also maintains specialized agricultural education through institutions like Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, reflecting the state's economy. Community colleges serve rural areas with extremely affordable tuition under $9,000.

How much do graduates from Nebraska's small colleges typically earn?

Earnings vary significantly by field, ranging from $27,531 to $73,911 annually. Healthcare graduates lead earning potential, with Creighton University graduates averaging $73,911 and Bryan College graduates earning $70,845. Even agricultural specialties like Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture produce graduates earning $56,887.

Is attending a small college in Nebraska affordable?

Net prices range from $4,974 to $32,380, with community colleges offering the most affordable options. Western Nebraska Community College costs just $4,974 annually, while specialized programs like Universal College of Healing Arts cost $20,862. Most institutions fall between $13,000-$16,000 annually.

Does size affect graduation rates at Nebraska's small colleges?

Graduation rates span from 35.5% to 100% regardless of size. Universal College of Healing Arts achieves perfect graduation with only 27 students, while larger institutions like Northeast Community College with 2,464 students maintain 55.8% rates. Specialized programs typically show higher completion rates than general education institutions.

Where are most of Nebraska's small colleges located?

Omaha hosts the highest concentration with healthcare-focused institutions like Clarkson College, Universal College of Healing Arts, and Nebraska Methodist College. Rural communities maintain specialized schools like Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis. Community colleges serve regional hubs including North Platte, Grand Island, and Norfolk.

What acceptance rates can students expect at Nebraska's small colleges?

Acceptance rates range from 56.1% to 90.5%, with most institutions maintaining relatively open admission policies. Nebraska Methodist College accepts 90.5% of applicants, while Clarkson College is more selective at 56.1%. Healthcare programs tend toward moderate selectivity, balancing access with professional preparation standards.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.