Acceptance Rate
87%
“A vibrant public university in the heart of Omaha, blending urban energy with Midwestern warmth and affordability.”
Omaha, NE
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Nestled in Nebraska’s largest city, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) has been a cornerstone of accessible higher education since its founding in 1908 as a private institution before becoming part of the state system in 1968. Originally established to serve the growing urban population, UNO has evolved into a dynamic hub for nearly 14,000 undergraduates, reflecting a practical, community-focused ethos. Its location in Omaha—a bustling Midwest city with a rich history in railroads and meatpacking—gives the campus a unique blend of grit and opportunity, with easy access to internships and local culture.
If you’re a student who values a straightforward, no-frills education and thrives in an environment where you can connect with a diverse mix of peers, UNO could be your kind of place. Many here are first-generation college students or locals balancing work and school, so there’s a grounded, supportive vibe. However, if you’re seeking a secluded, traditional college-town feel or a highly selective academic atmosphere, UNO’s urban setting and open enrollment approach might not fully match your vision.
The campus itself sprawls across several neighborhoods in Omaha, with modern buildings mixed among historic structures, reflecting its growth over a century. Being in a mid-sized city means you’ll have plenty to explore off-campus, from the Old Market’s cobblestone streets to the Missouri River waterfront. Just keep in mind that the urban location can make campus feel less cohesive at times, as many students commute rather than live on-site, and navigating the city’s sometimes harsh winters requires some resilience.
Photo Gallery
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
At the University of Nebraska at Omaha, you’ll find a curriculum rooted in practical, career-oriented learning with standout programs in fields like criminal justice, business administration, and information technology. The College of Public Affairs and Community Service is particularly well-regarded, often collaborating with local government and nonprofits to give students hands-on experience in urban policy and social work. Research opportunities exist, especially in areas like cybersecurity and data science through the Peter Kiewit Institute, though they may require initiative to seek out as a freshman or sophomore.
Classroom experiences vary widely—some intro courses can feel crowded with a lecture-heavy format, while upper-level classes often shrink in size, allowing for more discussion and personal attention from professors. If you’re driven and proactive, you can build strong relationships with faculty who are invested in the region’s challenges. Be aware, though, that some popular majors may have limited spots or resources, so planning your schedule early and staying on top of advising is key to avoiding delays.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
11,756 undergrad • 3,216 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
62%
Black / African American
7%
Hispanic / Latino
15%
Asian
5%
Other / Multi-racial
11%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Omaha, NE
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at UNO carries a down-to-earth, community-driven spirit, shaped by its large commuter population and urban setting. You might spend your week attending classes, grabbing coffee at the student center in the Milo Bail Student Center, or joining friends for a Mavericks hockey game at Baxter Arena—UNO’s Division I team is a point of pride. Traditions like the annual Bell Tower Challenge, where students compete in quirky campus-wide tasks, help foster a sense of belonging, though the social scene can feel fragmented since many students live off-campus and juggle outside commitments.
Residential life offers a tighter-knit experience if you choose to live in one of UNO’s dorms or apartments, but housing isn’t guaranteed for all, and securing a spot can be competitive. Omaha’s cost of living is relatively affordable compared to larger cities, which is a plus, but the city’s long, snowy winters can test your patience if you’re not used to bundling up. Socially, there’s a mix of quiet study nights and lively events, though the party scene is more subdued compared to bigger state schools, often spilling into downtown Omaha’s bars and venues for those seeking nightlife.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
The Summit League
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
78%
4 Years Graduation Rate
33%
6 Years Graduation Rate
51%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$53,909
78% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of Nebraska at Omaha and return in the fall. 33% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 51% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
33%
4-5 years
18%
6-8 years
3%
Non-grad
46%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$6,344
Acceptance
87%
Undergrads
11,756
4-Year Grad Rate
33%
Endowment
$122M
Omaha, NE 68182-0225
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