Nebraska is located in the midwestern United States, bordered by Iowa, South Dakota, Colorado, Missouri, Kansas, and Wyoming. In terms of population, it ranks 37th, but in terms of land area, it ranks 16th. There are also more than a dozen religiously affiliated universities in Nebraska.
Some Christian colleges in Nebraska prepare students for seminary by offering degrees in ministry or theology; others provide a wide range of secular degree options at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Some examples of degrees that fall under the category of “secular” are nursing, politics, economics, human resource management, public policy, education, law, and communications.
10 Best Christian Colleges In Nebraska
For upcoming college students interested in attending an institution that shares their faith and has a proven track record of academic success, here are some of the most prestigious Christian colleges [1] and universities in Nebraska. This list comprises colleges that may have affiliations with Christian churches, religious organizations, or faiths.
1. College Of Saint Mary
Omaha, Nebraska, is home to the private Catholic women’s college known as the College of Saint Mary. The school was founded by the Sisters of Mercy and is well-known for its courses in the healthcare industry, such as nursing and occupational therapy. They have 11 athletic teams and over 30 majors for undergrads and seven for postgraduates.
2. Concordia University
Situated in Seward, Concordia University actively promotes the development of students’ knowledge and faith, fostering growth both within the classroom and through engagement in mission work. This university offers a wide range of degree programs catering to various academic interests and goals.
These programs encompass undergraduate, graduate, and degree completion options, with majors spanning from Art and Education to Music and Theology. There are numerous opportunities available for mission work, which provides all students with the chance to receive a comprehensive Christian education.
3. Nebraska Methodist College
As its name suggests, this college has strong ties with the United Methodist Church. It is a not-for-profit school with courses focusing on healthcare—from nursing degrees to health management courses. NMC offers students an exceptional educational setting that prioritizes both compassion and expertise in the healthcare field. By fostering these qualities, students are equipped with the necessary skills to excel in their healthcare careers.
During their academic journey, students actively participate in service-learning experiences, community-based education, and leadership development. These activities help nurture their personal and professional growth while preparing them to become outstanding contributors to their communities.
4. Hastings College
Hastings College, a tiny private institution in Hastings, Nebraska, offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The Presbyterian Church (USA) is the official faith of the institution. In 2020, the school was ranked third in the region for best undergraduate teaching. It also boasts of being ranked third as the most innovative school in the region by the U.S. News & World Report.
5. Midland University
Midland University is a four-year institution in Fremont, Nebraska, that serves both undergraduates and graduates. The Evangelical Lutheran Church is the faith of the school’s founders and administrators. There were 1,691 applicants in the most recent data year, and only 1,078 spots were available. There were 341 students who were accepted and ultimately enrolled. There are now 1,243 full-time students and 428 part-time students enrolled.
6. Nebraska Christian College
Nebraska Christian College is a four-year Bible college that offers undergraduate programs. It is located in Papillion, Nebraska. This private institution is affiliated with the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ religion. Nebraska Christian College offers an open admissions policy that allows any high school graduate or student with a GED to enroll. There are 124 students enrolled full-time and 10 attending part-time. In-state tuition for 2021/22 is $17,350 plus $650 in fees, excluding room and board.
7. Nebraska Wesleyan University
Lincoln, Nebraska, is home to Nebraska Wesleyan University, a private institution with Methodist ties. The Nebraska Methodists established it in 1887. In 2017, there were over 2,100 people enrolled, including about 1,500 full-time students and about 300 teachers and administrators. The curriculum is modeled after that of a liberal arts institution. There are three graduate programs and 119 educational tracks offered at this university.
8. Summit Christian College
Summit Christian College, located in a picturesque area next to Scotts Bluff National Monument, is well-known not just for the outstanding education one would expect from a private Christian institution but also for its inexpensive tuition and commitment to sending students into ministry debt-free. After earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, students can continue their mission work in a variety of settings.
9. Union College
Union College is a private four-year institution in Lincoln, Nebraska. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist religion. At Union College, students have access to a wide selection of academic possibilities, comprising 50 majors, minors, and emphases across 27 fields of study. This diversity ensures that each individual can find a suitable and rewarding career path that resonates with their passions and aspirations.
10. York College of Nebraska
York College is an intimate, private, four-year institution in York, Nebraska. It is affiliated with The Churches of Christ. Recent statistics show that out of 479 applicants, only 296 were accepted. Of those who were given admission, 112 chose to attend. The total number of students is 434 (434 full-time) and 214 (214 part-time). The total cost of in-state tuition and fees for the academic year 2021-2022 is $19,450 (not including housing and board).
Conclusion
Affordable and high-quality higher education is available at Nebraska’s Christian colleges. All students, regardless of their intended field of study, can apply for and receive a scholarship.
For students who are just starting out on their college journey, consider breaking the information down into manageable chunks. Think about narrowing your options by location, religion, school size, number of students, and preferred teaching style. Knowing the range of schools accessible and applying your own set of criteria will narrow the field to a manageable number of Christian colleges for you.