University of Nebraska at Kearney
The Vibe Check
The University of Nebraska at Kearney feels like a close-knit community where students are recognized and supported, offering a true small-town college experience. It's a place where Midwestern friendliness meets practical education, creating a comfortable and encouraging atmosphere for undergraduates.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UNK is known for its strong and personalized programs in Education, Business, and Health Professions, with faculty who prioritize teaching over large-scale research. The university provides hands-on learning opportunities and internships, ensuring students gain practical skills directly applicable to their careers.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Kearney
Student life in Kearney revolves around outdoor activities at Yanney Heritage Park and cheering on the Lopers at campus sporting events. The city offers a charming downtown with local coffee shops and restaurants, while the nearby Platte River provides opportunities for hiking and fishing.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($50,105):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is considered very safe with a dedicated campus security team and a community-oriented environment. Kearney itself is a low-crime city, making it a secure place for students to live and study.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students
- ✓ Strong, personalized faculty attention due to small class sizes
- ✓ Safe, friendly, and tight-knit campus community
- ✓ Solid programs in high-demand fields like Health and Education
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate is below the national average
- ✗ Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to a large college town
- ✗ Prestige and research output are lower than flagship universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UNK is well-regarded for its College of Education, Business, and Health Sciences. It is particularly known for its strong ties to the local community and its specialized programs such as the renowned Museum Studies program and the School of Natural Resources.
No, it is not highly selective. The acceptance rate is 85.79%, making it an accessible option for many students. While a 1089 average SAT score is competitive for the school, a strong GPA and involvement in extracurriculars are key components of a successful application.
Campus life is active and community-focused, with a majority of students living on campus or nearby. Students enjoy a vibrant Greek life, numerous student organizations, and a strong sense of school spirit centered around Loper athletics.
For many students, especially Nebraska residents, UNK represents a strong financial value. The combination of affordable tuition, financial aid for over a third of students, and solid post-graduation earnings makes it a worthwhile investment for a quality undergraduate degree.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 4,683
- In-State Tuition $8,302
- Out-of-State $14,260
- Zip Code 68849
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $16,488 and relatively low in-state tuition, UNK offers a high-value education compared to national averages. The 10-year median earnings of $50,105 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for Nebraska residents.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.