University campus in Nebraska
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Nebraska, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top information systems colleges in Nebraska. 6 accredited information systems schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from University of Nebraska at Omaha to Creighton University.

#1 ProgramCreighton
Avg Salary$91,560
Tuition From$6,536/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

8

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$91,560

Nebraska median information systems salary

BLS OEWS 2024

75.9/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

16%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best information systems degree programs: Creighton, U of Nebraska at Omaha, Wayne State College

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $5,760 to $45,000/year

U of Nebraska at Omaha offers the most affordable option at $6,536/yr

IPEDS 2024

Information Systems degree programs available: 3 master's, 1 doctoral in Nebraska

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

Major employers: Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade, Gallup

Tech hubs in Omaha and Lincoln

Hakia Research 2026

Information Systems degree programs near 20+ cities across Nebraska

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Nebraska Information Systems programs

We rank 10 accredited information systems programs in Nebraska using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Information Systems Degree Programs in Nebraska Worth It?

Answer
$91,560
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Nebraska deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $91,560 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $24,023/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Information Systems Degree Rankings in Nebraska

Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Nebraska by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Nebraska

6
Programs ranked
$24,372
Avg tuition/yr
49%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Nebraska ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Creighton, U of Nebraska at Omaha, Wayne State College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Nebraska information systems programs earn a median salary of $77,826, 21% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $5,760 to $45,000 annually, with an average of $24,023/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 64%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Nebraska's leading technology employers. For students seeking information systems degrees in Nebraska, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

#4
Midland University
Fremont, NEPrivate nonprofit
$41,150
Tuition/yr
42%
Grad rate
68.0
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
RankSchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateHakia Score
#6Doane UniversityCrete, NEPrivate nonprofit$40,52057%63.8

Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Nebraska

2
Programs ranked
$9,441
Avg tuition/yr
40%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Nebraska offers 3 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Nebraska at Omaha, Bellevue, Creighton, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Nebraska earn a median salary of $91,560, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $19,891/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Nebraska's information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Nebraska

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$24,023/year
Average out-of-state tuition$60,058/year
Community college tuition$6,006/year
4-year savings for residents$144,140
2+2 transfer pathway savings$36,034

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Nebraska

State Aid Programs

Nebraska residents pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to make higher education affordable. The primary state-sponsored aid program is the Nebraska Opportunity Grant, a need-based grant available through the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education, which supports eligible Nebraska residents attending participating institutions across the state. This grant complements federal financial aid, ensuring students can access funds through both state and national sources. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at StudentAid.gov to qualify for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Eligible Information Systems students may receive Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and PLUS loans to finance their education.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond grants and federal aid, Nebraska's 13 institutions offering Information Systems programs provide institutional scholarships and merit-based awards tailored to high-achieving students. Both four-year universities and two-year community colleges offer financial packages to attract qualified Information Systems majors. Students should contact financial aid offices directly at their chosen institution to inquire about program-specific scholarships, graduate assistantships, and employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Many of Nebraska's major employers, including Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, and Berkshire Hathaway, offer educational benefits and tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing IT credentials. For detailed information about federal aid eligibility and application deadlines, visit StudentAid.gov. Learn more about related programs like Information Technology in Nebraska and Data Analytics in Nebraska to explore complementary funding opportunities.

Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Nebraska

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree in Nebraska. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+907%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,677,254

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$133,333

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.9%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Nebraska metro areas

Omaha$101K
Lincoln$96K
Bellevue$92K
View data table
CategoryValue
Omaha$101K
Lincoln$96K
Bellevue$92K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Nebraska

Find information systems jobs in Nebraska. These major employers across Nebraska metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Information Systems Jobs in Omaha

NE
Mutual of Omaha
insurance
Kiewit
construction
PayPal/Venmo
fintech
Buildertrend
tech
Union Pacific
railroad

Information Systems Jobs in Lincoln

NE
Hudl
tech
Nelnet
fintech
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
education

Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Nebraska

State Transfer System

Nebraska's strong transfer system facilitates seamless academic progression for Information Systems students. The Nebraska Transfer Initiative coordinates credit transfer among public institutions, enabling students to begin at community colleges and advance to four-year universities without losing credits. Nebraska has 16 two-year institutions offering IS associate degrees and foundational coursework, including Metropolitan Community College Area, Southeast Community College Area, and Central Community College. These community colleges provide affordable entry points, with tuition as low as $2,568 at Western Nebraska Community College, allowing students to complete general education and introductory IS courses before transferring to bachelor's degree programs.

How Transfers Work

Students pursuing the associate-to-bachelor's pathway benefit from articulation agreements between community colleges and Nebraska's 24 four-year institutions. After completing an associate degree or specific coursework at community colleges, students transfer into junior-level standing at universities like University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney, or Wayne State College. The Nebraska Transfer Initiative ensures that credits earned at community colleges count toward bachelor's degrees, reducing time-to-degree and overall costs. This pathway is particularly valuable for working adults and first-generation students. Students can also explore related programs like Information Technology or Data Analytics through transfer-friendly pathways. Financial aid, including the Nebraska Opportunity Grant, supports students throughout their transfer journey.

Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Nebraska?

Industry & Workforce

Nebraska offers strong pathways for Information Systems education with 13 institutions offering programs across associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Nebraska programs awarded 185 bachelor's completions, 94 master's completions, and 2 doctoral completions, reflecting strong enrollment in this high-demand field. The state's largest IS programs are concentrated in major employment hubs: Bellevue University led with 106 completions, followed by the University of Nebraska at Omaha with 86 completions, and Creighton University with 62 completions. These institutions benefit from proximity to Nebraska's major tech employers and corporate headquarters.

Salary Outlook

Nebraska's technology sector is anchored by employers including Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, and Berkshire Hathaway, creating strong internship and career placement opportunities. The Omaha and Lincoln metropolitan areas are growing tech hubs, with strong demand for information systems professionals. Public four-year universities in Nebraska offer exceptional affordability, with average in-state tuition of just $6,668, compared to the national context (College Scorecard). Top-ranked programs like the University of Nebraska at Omaha and University of Nebraska at Kearney combine quality education with competitive pricing, making Nebraska an attractive destination for both in-state and out-of-state students seeking practical, career-focused IS training.

Information Systems Program Availability in Nebraska

6 Programs
Nebraska offers 6 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Nebraska

Employment Outlook

Nebraska's information systems job market is supported by a strong network of employers and educational institutions across the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nebraska offers competitive opportunities for IS professionals in major metropolitan areas including Omaha, Lincoln, and surrounding regions. The state's job market benefits from diverse industry sectors, with major employers like Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, and Berkshire Hathaway actively recruiting IT and information systems talent. Educational institutions in the state have produced 185 bachelor's degree completions and 94 master's degree completions in information systems (IPEDS), demonstrating a steady pipeline of qualified professionals entering the workforce.

Salaries by Metro

The Omaha-Council Bluffs and Lincoln metropolitan areas represent Nebraska's strongest job markets for information systems professionals. These regional hubs concentrate corporate headquarters, healthcare systems, and financial services that consistently seek IS expertise. Students graduating from top programs like the University of Nebraska at Omaha and University of Nebraska at Kearney benefit from proximity to these employment centers and established employer partnerships. For broader career context, aspiring IS professionals should explore how Nebraska's opportunities compare to national trends and consider related fields like Information Technology in Nebraska and Data Analytics in Nebraska for expanded career pathways.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Nebraska$59,514$132,762
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Nebraska

Online Programs

0 available in Nebraska

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$21,621/yr$24,023/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States

Information Systems Degree Programs in Nebraska: FAQ

What are the best information systems degree programs in Nebraska?
The best information systems degree programs in Nebraska based on our methodology are: 1) Creighton University (highly ranked), 2) University of Nebraska at Omaha, and 3) Wayne State College. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Nebraska offers 6 total accredited programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Nebraska?
Information Systems degree program costs in Nebraska vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $24,023/year, while private institutions average $52,851/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,006/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $96,092 at public schools to $211,402 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Nebraska?
Information Systems professionals in Nebraska earn a median salary of $91,560, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $59,514, while senior roles exceed $132,762. Salaries vary by metro area: Omaha ($100,716), Lincoln ($96,138) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Nebraska?
Yes, Nebraska offers 0 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Nebraska?
Major Information Systems employers in Nebraska include Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade, Gallup, Buildertrend. The Omaha and Lincoln metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Nebraska universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Nebraska's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Nebraska?
An information systems degree program in Nebraska offers strong ROI with a $91,560 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $24,023/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($103,463), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Nebraska?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Nebraska are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Nebraska community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Nebraska university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Nebraska?
Nebraska information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Nebraska state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Nebraska's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Nebraska salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Information Systems program profiles in Nebraska

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Bachelor's Information Systems programs

#1Wayne State CollegeWayne, NE

Why it stands out. Four specialized concentration tracks allowing students to focus on specific career paths. Student organizations including Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), SkillsUSA, and Upsilon Pi Epsilon honor society

Hakia insight. Wayne State's four concentration tracks backed by Dr. Katie Machovsky's explicit role bridging cooperative education means students don't choose between study and real-world work—they rotate through Beck Ag, Daycos, and First National Bank projects as coursework equivalents.

Wayne State College's Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems prepares students for careers in a rapidly growing field combining technology and business. The program offers four specialized concentration tracks: Integrated Technology Support (hardware/software troubleshooting and user support), Networking and Cybersecurity (network administration and digital security), Programmer/Analyst (programming and computing principles), and Web Specialist (web development and UI/application development). Each concentration requires 57 credit hours of specialization coursework. Students develop diverse skills including programming, networking, and systems management to design, implement, and manage complex information systems. Graduates pursue careers across finance, healthcare, government, and tech sectors in roles such as systems analyst, IT manager, and cybersecurity specialist. The program is supported by experienced faculty and student organizations including ACM, SkillsUSA, and Upsilon Pi Epsilon honor society. Wayne State was recognized as a top college for Computer Information Sciences in Nebraska by CollegeRaptor and ranked among the top public universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus

Industry partners

Beck AgDaycosFirst National Bank of OmahaGreat West Casualty CompanyWayne State College

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Katie Machovsky (Executive Director of Cooperative Education and Industry Liaison)

Location advantage: Norfolk cooperative education opportunities Grand Island cooperative education opportunities Nebraska workforce development focus

#2University of Nebraska at OmahaOmaha, NE

Why it stands out. Multiple specialization tracks available. Online and traditional delivery options

Hakia insight. UNO's multiple specialization tracks paired with Intel's direct recruiting presence means students can pivot from database focus to cybersecurity mid-program without losing momentum—the Omaha corridor's Fortune 500 IT departments actively hire around skill depth, not rigid degree titles.

The Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems at the University of Nebraska at Omaha prepares students to design technology solutions and bring people together through information systems. The program offers flexible delivery through traditional on-campus and online formats, with multiple specialization tracks including Data Science, Internet Technologies, i-Business, Application Development and Management, Information Assurance, and IT Audit and Control. Students benefit from hands-on learning and access to the MISSO student organization. The curriculum is designed to develop skills in systems analysis, database administration, web development, and business intelligence. Graduates pursue careers as systems analysts, database administrators, web developers, data analysts, and IT project managers. UNO's College of Information Science & Technology provides comprehensive advising and support services to ensure student success in this in-demand field.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Nebraska University Center for Cybersecurity (NebraskaCYBER) — Information assurance, cybersecurity research
  • Bioinformatics Computing Lab — Bioinformatics research with cluster computing facility
  • NLPKR Lab — Knowledge representation, natural language understanding, automated reasoning, declarative problem solving
  • Bioinformatics Core Facility — Bioinformatics research

Industry partners

Mutual of OmahaOmaha businessesOmaha nonprofits

Career outcomes

Top employers: Intel

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Matt Germonprez (Information Science & Technology)
  • Dr. Deepak Khazanchi (Information Science and Technology)
  • Dr. Sajda Qureshi (Information Systems)
  • Dr. Peter Wolcott (Information Systems)
  • Dr. Martina Greiner (Management Information Systems)

Admissions

Deadline July 1 (Fall), December 1 (Spring), April 1 (Summer).

Accreditation & certifications

ABET

Location advantage: Located in Omaha tech corridor with headquarters of major financial services, insurance, and logistics companies Access to Fortune 500 IT departments and internship programs

#4Midland UniversityFremont, NE

Why it stands out. Midland's IS program emphasizes ERP systems (SAP) and business analysis skills, positioning graduates as technical business consultants rather than pure IT technicians.

Hakia insight. Midland's SAP-centric curriculum creates an unusual apprenticeship model: graduates enter the job market as ERP-fluent technical consultants, a skill that commands 15-20% salary premium over general IS roles and is nearly impossible to self-teach.

At the bachelor's level, midland's information systems program operates within a business school context that bridges technical and management domains naturally. The curriculum integrates IS with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP, giving students hands-on experience with software used across global organizations. Rather than compartmentalizing IS as purely technical, Midland emphasizes the business analyst perspective—how systems solve organizational challenges and drive competitive advantage. Smaller class sizes enable professors to know students individually and recommend them directly to employers. Graduates often move into roles that blend business acumen with technical literacy: business analyst, IT consultant, or process improvement specialist positions where they translate between business stakeholders and technical teams. The program's regional reputation in the Midwest creates employer relationships that yield consistent job placement for graduates.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Systems · 4 years · online

Location advantage: Regional Midwest presence with employer relationships in business services and financial sectors

#5Bellevue UniversityBellevue, NE

Why it stands out. ACM and ABET accreditation standards. Hands-on experience with industry-standard technologies (Python, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Project, networking and security software)

Hakia insight. Bellevue's ACM and ABET accreditation paired with hands-on training in Python and SQL Server (not just theory) means graduates can defend technical competency to Cisco and CompTIA—certifications aren't add-ons, they're embedded validation of what you've built.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems at Bellevue University follows ACM and ABET standards for model Information Systems undergraduate programs. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard technologies including Python, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Project, and networking/security software. The program offers five specialization tracks: software development, business analytics, data science, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity. The curriculum includes 36 core and elective credit hours in the major, complemented by 37 general education credits and 54 elective credits (127 total). Faculty bring real-world experience from organizations including the Department of Defense, Mutual of Omaha, and Fiserv. Graduates develop competencies in designing software applications, managing database systems, and implementing IT infrastructure and cybersecurity solutions. The program is available in on-campus and 100% online formats, allowing students to choose their learning environment while receiving the same level of support and resources.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus

Industry partners

CiscoMicrosoftCompTIALinux Professional Institute

Accreditation & certifications

Higher Learning CommissionACM and ABET standards for model Information Systems programs

Location advantage: Online accessibility with regional Omaha connections for internships and local employment

#6Doane UniversityCrete, NE

Why it stands out. Doane embeds cybersecurity and data analytics as mandatory tracks within its information systems degree, not afterthoughts.

Hakia insight. Doane's mandatory cybersecurity and data analytics tracks (not electives) mean every graduate exits with portfolio proof in two high-demand domains—most IS programs offer these as optional specializations, leaving students with resume gaps in competitive hiring cycles.

At the bachelor's level, doane's information systems curriculum prioritizes cybersecurity and data analytics as core competencies rather than optional electives, reflecting the realities of contemporary IT roles. Students complete dedicated coursework in information security, risk management, and secure systems design alongside traditional IS foundations. The program's smaller cohort size—characteristic of Doane's liberal arts approach—enables intensive mentoring and customized learning paths. Faculty bring industry experience in system administration and network security, translating their field expertise into case-based instruction. Graduates emerge with both technical depth and the communication skills valued in leadership-track IT careers, positioning them well for transitions into IT management and security leadership roles.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Systems · 4 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • VR Lab — Virtual reality applications

Industry partners

Don't Panic LabsBoys TownFiservFoundation for Educational ServicesHudlIBMLockheed MartinMicrosoftMinnesota VikingsNelnetSandhills PublishingScootersState of NebraskaUniversity of NebraskaCrete CarrierCS3 MarketingFirespringKidwellNational Institute of Standards and TechnologyUniversity of Georgia Bioinformatics Department

Notable faculty

  • Alec Engebretson (Computing)
  • Mark Meysenburg (Computing)

Best Master's Information Systems programs

#1University of Nebraska at OmahaOmaha, NE

Why it stands out. Flexible delivery: traditional in-person and online (asynchronous) options. Embedded professional certifications: Data Analytics, Data Management, Information Security Management, Project Management

Hakia insight. UNO's embedded professional certifications in Data Analytics, Information Security, and Project Management mean you're not balancing a thesis against studying for certs—the degree itself generates three credential outcomes, compressing what typically requires post-graduation exam prep.

The Master of Science in Management Information Systems at University of Nebraska at Omaha prepares working professionals to develop and manage organizational information resources, technology, and infrastructure. The program offers flexible delivery options including traditional in-person and online formats to accommodate working schedules. Students can pursue concentrations in Analytics, Data Management, Information Assurance, Project Management, or Systems Analysis and Design. The program supports career advancement through embedded professional certifications in Data Analytics, Data Management, Information Security Management, and Project Management. Dual-degree options are available, including MBA/MIS and MPA/MIS combinations for enhanced career trajectories. Graduate advisors provide personalized guidance throughout the program to ensure alignment with professional goals.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Management Information Systems · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Nebraska University Center for Cybersecurity (NebraskaCYBER) — Information assurance, cybersecurity research
  • Bioinformatics Computing Lab — Bioinformatics research with cluster computing facility
  • NLPKR Lab — Knowledge representation, natural language understanding, automated reasoning, declarative problem solving
  • Bioinformatics Core Facility — Bioinformatics research

Industry partners

Mutual of OmahaOmaha businessesOmaha nonprofits

Career outcomes

$84,000 median salary

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Matt Germonprez (Information Science & Technology)
  • Dr. Deepak Khazanchi (Information Science and Technology)
  • Dr. Sajda Qureshi (Information Systems)
  • Dr. Peter Wolcott (Information Systems)
  • Dr. Martina Greiner (Management Information Systems)

Admissions

Deadline July 1 (Fall), December 1 (Spring), April 1 (Summer).

Accreditation & certifications

ABET

Location advantage: Located in Omaha tech corridor with headquarters of major financial services, insurance, and logistics companies Access to Fortune 500 IT departments and internship programs

#2Bellevue UniversityBellevue, NE

Why it stands out. No GMAT or GRE required for admission. Four specialized concentrations: Database, Software Development, Data Science, Cybersecurity

Hakia insight. Bellevue's no-GMAT admission requirement combined with four specialization concentrations (Database, Software Development, Data Science, Cybersecurity) removes gatekeeping for working professionals; you prove competency through specialization depth rather than standardized test scores.

Bellevue University's Master of Science in Computer Information Systems is designed for working professionals seeking to advance their IT careers without standardized test requirements. The 36-credit program offers flexible on-campus and online formats, allowing students to balance education with professional responsibilities. Students select from four specialized concentrations—Database, Software Development, Data Science, or Cybersecurity—aligned with career goals. The curriculum integrates theory with applied, real-world projects, including capstone courses that tackle authentic business problems. Core courses cover IT infrastructure, strategy, system development, cloud computing, and project management grounded in PMI principles. Prerequisites include Applied Statistics and Introduction to Programming or equivalent, with ALEKS placement exam waiver options available. Graduates develop competencies in translating technical information for stakeholder alignment, applying IT principles to application development and infrastructure solutions, and managing complex IT projects. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through virtual labs and industry-informed instruction, positioning graduates for competitive roles in an evolving technology marketplace.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Computer Information Systems · 1-2 years · on-campus

Industry partners

CiscoMicrosoftCompTIALinux Professional Institute

Career outcomes

Top employers: Department of Defense (DOD), Mutual of Omaha, Fiserv

Accreditation & certifications

Higher Learning CommissionACM and ABET standards for model Information Systems programs

Location advantage: Online accessibility with regional Omaha connections for internships and local employment