Clarkson College logo

Clarkson College

Accept Rate
64.29%
Grad Rate
73.6%
Enrollment
611
Tuition
$15,168
Median Salary
$64,876
Overall Grade
C+
B-
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
B-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Clarkson College feels like a tight-knit, career-focused hub where students are driven and collaborative. The urban campus buzzes with a practical energy, as everyone is there to gain skills and launch into the healthcare and business fields. Itโ€™s less about sprawling lawns and more about achieving your professional goals with a supportive community around you.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

64.29%
Moderately Selective

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

["Highlight any healthcare or leadership experience in your application, even if it's volunteer work or shadowing, as the admissions committee values demonstrated interest in the health professions.","Ensure your application essays clearly articulate your career goals and how Clarksonโ€™s specific programs will help you achieve them, as the school heavily prioritizes students with a strong professional focus."]

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Clarkson College excels in health professions and business & marketing, with a curriculum designed to mirror real-world industry demands. Teaching quality is high, with faculty who are also active practitioners bringing direct experience into the classroom. Research opportunities are hands-on and project-based, often integrated directly into the professional programs rather than being purely theoretical.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
97.7%
Business & Marketing
2.3%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

73.6%
Graduation Rate
76.9%
Retention Rate
611
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$15,168
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$15,928
After financial aid
Total Cost
$23,962
Cost of attendance/year
30.4%
Receive Pell Grants
70.7%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Omaha

Omaha offers a vibrant city life with a thriving arts scene, including the Old Market district's galleries and cobblestone streets. Students enjoy exploring the city's renowned restaurant scene, catching concerts at venues like the Slowdown, and cheering on local sports teams. The city is large enough to offer diverse entertainment but affordable and accessible enough to navigate easily.

Local Rent Check

$971 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Omaha
Explore Omaha

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$60,672
$0Est. 4 Years: $60,672

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($64,876):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Clarkson College is located in a well-trafficked urban area of Omaha, and the campus itself is relatively compact and secure. Like any city, students should practice general awareness, but the immediate area is considered safe with standard precautions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Highly focused career preparation with strong programs in healthcare and business.
  • โœ“ Affordable tuition for a private college, with flat rates for all students regardless of residency.
  • โœ“ Strong graduation and retention rates indicate good student support and program satisfaction.

Cons

  • โœ— Smaller enrollment means fewer large-scale university events and a more limited social scene.
  • โœ— Specialized focus means fewer options for students interested in liberal arts or STEM fields outside of health professions.
  • โœ— Urban setting requires students to be comfortable navigating a city environment for off-campus activities.

Notable Alumni

Susan M. Lafferty
Dean of the College of Nursing at Clarkson College and a leader in nursing education and simulation.
Dr. John L. Hines
A distinguished alumnus known for his contributions to the field of healthcare administration.
Karen L. H. K. Plautz
An accomplished professional in the business sector with a focus on marketing and organizational leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clarkson College is primarily known for its strong, career-oriented programs in health professions, including nursing, radiography, and physician assistant studies. It also has a solid reputation for its business and marketing programs, with a curriculum that emphasizes practical skills and professional development.

Clarkson College has an acceptance rate of 64.29%, making it moderately selective. While not as selective as some institutions, the admissions process is holistic, and competitive applicants typically present a solid GPA and a clear commitment to the college's professional programs. Strong application essays and relevant experience can significantly boost an applicant's chances.

Campus life is professional and focused, with a student body that is highly motivated to succeed in their chosen careers. The small enrollment of 611 students fosters a close-knit community where it's easy to get to know classmates and professors. Social life is more low-key and centered around academic and professional events, with students also taking advantage of the many activities in the surrounding Omaha area.

For students pursuing a career in high-demand fields like healthcare or business, Clarkson College can be an excellent value. The average net price of $15,928 is competitive, and the 10-year median earnings of $64,876 indicate a strong return on investment. The combination of affordable tuition, high graduation rates, and solid post-grad earnings makes it a financially sound choice for career-focused students.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Nebraska Medicine CHI Health Baylor Scott & White Health Children's Hospital & Medical Center First National Bank of Omaha
Smart Start Score
70

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 727
  • In-State Tuition $15,168
  • Zip Code 68131

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 15.6% โ™€ 84.5%

The Money Talk

With an average net price under $16,000 and tuition rates the same for in-state and out-of-state students, Clarkson College offers significant financial accessibility. The 10-year median earnings of nearly $65,000 suggest a strong return on investment, particularly for a private college. For students pursuing high-demand fields like nursing and business, the cost is often offset by the clear career pathway and solid earning potential.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $15,168
Housing (12 mo) $11,652
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $34,020
With avg financial aid:
$15,928/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.