Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Nebraska 2025
University of Nebraska at Omaha
106 computer science graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
123 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
University of Nebraska at Kearney
23 computer science graduates annually, 100% graduation rate
- 1.Nebraska offers 18+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Nebraska at Omaha leads with 97% graduation rate
- 3.Nebraska software developers earn median $91,560 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue
- 5.Cost of living index: 92.5% of US average (below average)
Computer Science Education in Nebraska: Overview
Nebraska offers 18 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 598 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, with major employers including Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade.
With a median software developer salary of $91,560 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 92.5% compared to the US average, Nebraska offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Nebraska Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | Omaha, NE | Public | $6,536 | 97% | 74.8 |
| 2 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, NE | Public | $8,010 | — | 67.3 |
| 3 | University of Nebraska at Kearney | Kearney, NE | Public | $6,480 | 100% | 55.2 |
| 4 | Wayne State College | Wayne, NE | Public | $5,760 | 83% | 53.2 |
| 5 | Hastings College | Hastings, NE | Private | $33,950 | 95% | 50.5 |
| 6 | Metropolitan Community College Area | Omaha, NE | Public | $3,060 | — | 49 |
| 7 | Bellevue University | Bellevue, NE | Private | $8,136 | 12% | 46.5 |
| 8 | Concordia University-Nebraska | Seward, NE | Private | $38,500 | 91% | 45.6 |
| 9 | Peru State College | Peru, NE | Public | $5,760 | — | 45.4 |
| 10 | Creighton University | Omaha, NE | Private | $45,000 | — | 43.8 |
| 11 | Southeast Community College Area | Lincoln, NE | Public | $2,912 | — | 41.9 |
| 12 | Little Priest Tribal College | Winnebago, NE | Public | $5,400 | — | 38.2 |
| 13 | Doane University | Crete, NE | Private | $39,336 | — | 34 |
| 14 | Northeast Community College | Norfolk, NE | Public | $3,240 | — | 33.8 |
| 15 | Central Community College | Grand Island, NE | Public | $2,880 | — | 33.2 |
| 16 | Western Nebraska Community College | Scottsbluff, NE | Public | $2,568 | — | 31.4 |
| 17 | Union Adventist University | Lincoln, NE | Private | $26,640 | — | 31.3 |
| 18 | Mid-Plains Community College | North Platte, NE | Public | $3,120 | — | 27.6 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Nebraska: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Nebraska at Omaha | U of Nebraska-Lincoln | U of Nebraska at Kearney | Wayne State College | Hastings College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $6,536 | $8,010 | $6,480 | $5,760 | $33,950 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | N/A% | 100% | 83% | 95% |
| Annual Graduates | 106 | 123 | 23 | 10 | 7 |
| Acceptance Rate | 87% | 77% | 86% | N/A | 70% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 74.8/100 | 67.3/100 | 55.2/100 | 53.2/100 | 50.5/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Nebraska
Nebraska offers 11 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $64,092 in the Nebraska market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Nebraska
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Nebraska at Omaha | $6,536 | 97% | 106 | 74.8 |
| #2 U of Nebraska-Lincoln | $8,010 | N/A% | 123 | 67.3 |
| #3 U of Nebraska at Kearney | $6,480 | 100% | 23 | 55.2 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Nebraska
For graduate study, Nebraska offers 3 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Nebraska at Omaha, Bellevue University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Nebraska reaching $119,028 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer science master's programs for more options beyond Nebraska.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Nebraska
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Nebraska at Omaha | $6,536 | 97% | 29 | 58.1 |
| #2 Bellevue | $8,136 | 12% | 46 | 46.5 |
| #3 U of Nebraska-Lincoln | $8,010 | N/A% | 21 | 45.7 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Nebraska
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Nebraska are at Western Nebraska Community College ($2,568/year), Central Community College ($2,880/year), Southeast Community College Area ($2,912/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Nebraska's competitive tech salaries.
At Western Nebraska Community College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $10,272 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $64,092, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Nebraska (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Western Nebraska... | $2,568 | $10,272 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 Central Community College | $2,880 | $11,520 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Southeast Community... | $2,912 | $11,648 | 0.4 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Nebraska
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Nebraska, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,536 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 106 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 87%
- • Ranking Score: 74.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 106 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 74.8 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (106 graduates), state salary outcomes ($91,560), and selectivity (87% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UNO's Computer Science program offers five specialized concentrations including AI and Information Assurance, with flexible course delivery including day, evening, and online sections. The program features a Fast Track option allowing qualified students to complete bachelor's and master's degrees in an accelerated timeframe.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,010 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 123 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 77%
- • Ranking Score: 67.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 123 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (123 graduates), state salary outcomes ($91,560), and selectivity (77% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Computer Science program offers accelerated master's degree options for current undergraduates and strong employment outcomes with 91% of graduates securing employment or continuing education within six months. The program maintains ABET accreditation and provides a comprehensive foundation in core computer science concepts.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Two semesters of college-level Calculus (MATH 106 and MATH 107)
- •Two semesters of college-level Fundamentals of Computer Science (CSCE 155 & CSCE 156)
- •Computer Organization & Assembler Programming (CSCE 230 or CSCE 231)
- •Discrete Mathematical Structures (CSCE 235)
- •Data Structures and Algorithms (CSCE 310)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $77,544
- Job Placement: 91% secured employment or continued education within six months of graduation
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,480 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 23 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 55.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 23 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 55.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (100%), program size (23 graduates), state salary outcomes ($91,560), and selectivity (86% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Wayne State College
Wayne, NE • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $5,760 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 83% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 53.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 83% graduation rate
- 10 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 53.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (83%), program size (10 graduates), state salary outcomes ($91,560), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Wayne State's Computer Science program offers flexible study options with both thesis and non-thesis tracks, specializations in high-demand areas like AI and autonomous driving, and is the most affordable among the nation's top research universities. The program provides hands-on, research-driven learning with access to funded research opportunities and strong industry connections through internships and co-ops.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •CSC 1100 Problem Solving and Programming
- •CSC 1500 Fundamental Structures in Computer Science
- •CSC 2110 Computer Science I
- •CSC 2200 Computer Science II
- •CSC 3100 Computer Architecture and Organization
- •CSC 3110 Algorithm Design
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
Program Details
- Credits: 98 credits in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics and technical communications, plus 22 credits of general education courses
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: nearly 40% of Wayne State engineering graduates who secure a job before graduation do so through an experiential learning placement
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rankings & Recognition
- most affordable of the nation's top research universities
Hastings College
Hastings, NE • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $33,950 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 7 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 70%
- • Ranking Score: 50.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 7 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 50.5 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (7 graduates), state salary outcomes ($91,560), and selectivity (70% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Nebraska with strong job growth.
Full Stack Developer
SOC 15-1252Full Stack Developer opportunities in Nebraska with strong job growth.
Systems Architect
SOC 15-1252Systems Architect opportunities in Nebraska with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Nebraska with strong job growth.
Technical Lead
SOC 15-1252Technical Lead opportunities in Nebraska with strong job growth.
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue
- You're seeking lower cost of living (92.5% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Mutual of Omaha or First Data
- You prefer Nebraska's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Nebraska's 18)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration
Computer Science in Nebraska FAQ
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Nebraska-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Nebraska salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.