Omaha is home to a range of institutions, from nationally recognized private research universities to state universities and medical-focused graduate schools.

For families preparing for their children's college education or considering a move to Omaha, we have detailed the characteristics, majors, tuition, and admission information for three representative universities in Omaha.

The first is Creighton University. Founded in 1878 by the Jesuits, it is a private research university and one of the most prestigious institutions in Omaha. It consistently ranks among the top universities in the Midwest according to the U.S. News & World Report, particularly noted for its School of Medicine, School of Law, and School of Dentistry, which receive high national acclaim. Popular undergraduate majors include business, nursing, biology, psychology, and communication. The student population is around 9,000 (undergraduate + graduate), and it has an urban campus that offers excellent access to downtown Omaha. The annual tuition for undergraduates is approximately $43,000 to $46,000 (for the 2023-24 academic year), with many students reducing their financial burden through scholarships and financial aid. The university actively welcomes international students, creating an environment where students from diverse cultural backgrounds study together.

The second is the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO). As a public university within the University of Nebraska System, it has been closely connected to the Omaha community since its establishment in 1908. With a total enrollment of over 15,000 students, it is larger than Creighton and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Key areas of strength include business administration, information science and technology, education, and public administration. Notably, it is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) in the cybersecurity and IT fields, demonstrating its commitment to training talent in these areas. For Nebraska residents, the annual undergraduate tuition is about $8,000 to $9,000 (for the 2023-24 academic year), making it very affordable compared to private universities. There are various options for evening and online classes, allowing many adult learners to balance work and study.

The third is the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Located in Omaha, UNMC is the medical campus of the University of Nebraska System, focusing on healthcare-related professional degree programs such as medicine (MD), dentistry (DDS), nursing (MSN, PhD), pharmacy (PharmD), and public health (MPH). As a graduate and professional school that does not offer undergraduate degrees, it is particularly important for students aiming for careers in healthcare or professionals already in the field. UNMC is also a hub for bioscience research in Nebraska and operates a National Quarantine Unit that has gained attention for its work on infectious diseases like Ebola and COVID-19. As a key institution in Omaha's healthcare industry, many graduates find employment in hospitals and medical facilities across Nebraska and the Midwest.

In addition, Omaha has several notable higher education institutions. College of Saint Mary is a Catholic women's college strong in nursing, education, and business, offering personalized education through small class sizes. Graceland University operates a branch in Omaha, focusing on online undergraduate and graduate programs. Bellevue University, located in Bellevue just south of Omaha, is known for its flexible curriculum catering to adult learners and military-related students.

We also summarize practical information to consider when choosing a university. Creighton University emphasizes service learning based on Jesuit values and is suitable for students who prefer close relationships with professors in small classroom settings. UNO offers reasonable tuition as a public university, urban accessibility, and a practical curriculum, making it advantageous for students aiming for employment in the Omaha area. UNMC is an essential institution for those aspiring to become healthcare professionals.

Omaha is the home of Warren Buffett and the headquarters of Berkshire Hathaway, the world's largest investment firm. As a result, there are abundant internship and job opportunities in finance and management compared to other Midwestern cities. Both Creighton and UNO operate partnerships with local businesses, and graduates have a strong employment network in the Omaha area. The healthcare sector is also a major pillar of Omaha's economy, making the job prospects for UNMC graduates very bright.

The living environment around the campuses of Omaha's universities is also worth mentioning. Creighton University's campus is located near downtown Omaha, close to urban culture and amenities. UNO's campus is situated in central Omaha, with good public transportation access and student-friendly cafes, bookstores, and conveniences nearby. Overall, the rental costs in college areas of Omaha are significantly lower than in major cities on the East or West Coast, which also reduces the cost of living for students.