If you want to advance your education without disrupting your current lifestyle, Nebraska’s online master’s programs offer a flexible solution. This guide will help you explore top schools, in-demand fields, costs, and FAQs so you can make an informed decision that aligns with both your career goals and personal commitments.
Author: Kenya McCullum
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Student SuccessOnline LearningEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Fields in Nebraska
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Accreditation Details
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Schools
Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Nebraska
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Inside Popular Online Master’s Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska’s colleges and universities offer a wide range of online and hybrid master’s degrees known for quality and flexibility. Below, we highlight three standout schools — along with program details and admissions requirements — to help you compare options.
Each summary draws from the school’s official website for accurate, up-to-date information.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL)
As Nebraska’s flagship university, UNL delivers Big Ten–caliber education that’s accessible from anywhere. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, UNL offers online master’s degrees in business, engineering, education, journalism, and more.
Online students receive robust support, including technical assistance, library access, and career services. UNL’s faculty brings leading research into the virtual classroom while maintaining the same rigorous academic standards as on campus.
Highlighted Program: MBA@Nebraska (Master of Business Administration)
Duration: 48 credit hours | 1.5 years (full-time, accelerated) or 3 years (part-time)
Mode: 100% online, no campus residency required
Cost: $700 per credit (flat rate) | $33,600 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with transcripts from all prior institutions
- Résumé (3+ years professional experience recommended)
- Three professional or academic references
- Statement of purpose outlining goals
University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK)
UNK Online offers more than 50 online and hybrid master’s programs and consistently posts the lowest tuition of any Nebraska university. Programs span education, history, business, counseling, and more — reflecting UNK’s roots as a teacher’s college and its expanded academic expertise.
Small class sizes and dedicated faculty foster a strong virtual learning community. Notably, UNK’s online Master of Science in Education programs have earned national recognition for excellence in science and English education.
Highlighted Program: MSEd in Learning Design and Technology
Duration: 36 credit hours | 2 years (flexible pacing for working teachers)
Mode: Fully online
Cost: $341 per credit (in-state) | $12,276 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (education or related field preferred) with minimum 2.75 GPA
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- Valid teaching certificate (recommended, not required)
- Professional résumé highlighting instructional experience
- Statement of purpose focused on instructional technology goals
Wayne State College
A member of Nebraska’s state college system, Wayne State College (WSC) is known for high-value online master’s programs. All online graduate programs charge flat-rate tuition regardless of residency, and no entrance exams are required.
Students choose from career-focused degrees in business, organizational management, education, and counseling. Courses are asynchronous, and small class sizes preserve WSC’s tight-knit community—even online.
Highlighted Program: MS in Organizational Management (MSOM)
Duration: 36 credit hours (typically 18-24 months)
Mode: 100% online; no campus visits required
Cost: $400 per credit (including fees) | $14,400 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (any major accepted)
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA (or 3.0 in prior graduate coursework)
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended
Top 5 Fields of Study for Nebraska Master’s Students
Choosing the right field is essential for maximizing career prospects and return on investment. In Nebraska, certain graduate fields stand out due to strong job demand, salary potential, and program availability.
Below are five of the most promising options.
Business Administration and Management (MBA)
Business remains a practical and popular choice. Nebraska is home to four Fortune 500 headquarters, including Berkshire Hathaway and Union Pacific, driving demand for skilled managers and analysts.
- Employment in professional and business services is projected to grow ~7%
- Nationally, master’s degree holders earn about $500 more per week than the median worker
Nebraska’s online MBA programs help professionals build strategic, financial, and leadership skills sought by local employers.
Education (K-12 and Higher Education)
For educators, a master’s degree is both common and career-enhancing. Many Nebraska districts reward advanced degrees with higher pay and administrative opportunities.
- Education-related jobs are projected to grow 5.5%
- Popular paths include curriculum and instruction, leadership, and school counseling
Online MEd programs are often built around teachers’ schedules and can lead to roles such as principal, instructional coordinator, or community college faculty.
Healthcare and Nursing
Healthcare is one of Nebraska’s fastest-growing sectors, with shortages in advanced practice nurses and healthcare leaders.
- Nurse Practitioner jobs are projected to grow 45% nationally this decade
- Nebraska NPs earn about $120,000 annually on average
Degrees such as MSN, MPH, MHA, or Physician Assistant studies can lead to high-impact roles addressing both urban and rural healthcare needs.
Information Technology and Computer Science
From Omaha’s finance and insurance tech sector to Lincoln’s startup ecosystem, Nebraska needs skilled IT professionals.
- Software developers earn around $100,000 annually in Nebraska
- Information Security Analyst roles are projected to grow ~33% in Omaha
Online master’s programs in information technology, computer science, and other related tech fields prepare graduates for leadership and specialized roles across industries including agriculture, healthcare, and business.
Agriculture and Natural Resources
Agriculture remains the backbone of Nebraska’s economy, with nearly one-quarter of all jobs tied to the sector. A master’s in agronomy, animal science, agribusiness, or natural resource management can lead to roles in:
- Extension education
- Sustainable farming
- Food science
- Resource conservation
Graduate training blends research with real-world application, preparing leaders to drive innovation in a critical industry.
Accreditation for Nebraska’s Online Master’s Programs
Accreditation is a key indicator of program quality. In Nebraska, universities are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Many programs also carry specialized accreditation, such as:
- AACSB for business programs
- CAEP for education programs
- CCNE or ACEN for nursing
Accreditation ensures your degree is respected by employers, licensing boards, and other institutions.
Types of Online Master’s Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska offers online master’s programs in several formats to fit different needs.
Full-Time Programs
Full-time study typically allows completion in 1.5 to 2 years. Students take heavier course loads and move through structured sequences or cohorts.
Examples in Nebraska:
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Bellevue University — MS in Data Science
Part-Time Programs
Part-time programs are ideal for working professionals. Students take fewer courses per term and often finish in three or more years.
Examples in Nebraska:
- Wayne State College — Online MBA
- Creighton University — MS in Health Informatics
No GRE/GMAT Required Programs
Many Nebraska programs waive standardized tests, focusing instead on GPA, experience, and application materials.
Examples in Nebraska:
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln — MBA@Nebraska
- Wayne State College — MS in Organizational Management
Accelerated Online Programs
Accelerated programs use shorter terms and year-round scheduling to enable faster completion — sometimes in 12–18 months.
Examples in Nebraska:
- Peru State College — M.S. in Education (Curriculum and Instruction)
- University of Nebraska-Kearney – MBA
Paying for Your Online Master’s in Nebraska
Nebraska’s online master’s programs are generally affordable compared to national averages.
- Public universities: $340–$700 per credit
- Private universities: $600–$900 per credit
- Most programs require 30–36 credits (some MBAs require more)
Online students often save on housing, commuting, and campus fees. Most programs are financial-aid eligible, including federal loans and employer tuition assistance.
| School / Program | Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wayne State College — MSOM | 36 | $400 | $14,400 |
| University of Nebraska-Lincoln — MBA | 48 | $700 | $33,600 |
| Bellevue University — MS Data Science | 36 | $649 | $23,364 |
Note: Public university rates may be lower for Nebraska residents and higher for non-residents. Always confirm on the school’s official site for the latest costs and any additional fees.
FAQS About Online Master’s Programs in Nebraska
Will employers respect an online master’s degree from a Nebraska school?
Yes. As long as your degree is from a properly accredited Nebraska institution, employers generally view it as equivalent to an on-campus degree.
In most cases, your diploma won’t indicate that the program was completed online — it will simply list the university and degree earned. Nebraska institutions such as UNL, UNO, and Creighton have strong reputations, and graduates of their online programs are hired into schools, hospitals, businesses, and government roles just like campus-based graduates.
Many employers also value the time management, self-discipline, and technical skills that online students develop.
Do I have to pay out-of-state tuition if I live outside Nebraska?
Not necessarily. Many Nebraska colleges offer in-state or flat-rate tuition for online students regardless of residency.
For example, Wayne State College charges the same $400 per credit for all online graduate students, whether they live in Nebraska or not. UNK’s online tuition is also among the lowest in the state and is effectively in-state for most students.
Tuition policies vary by school and program, so it’s important to check each university’s online tuition structure, but living outside Nebraska does not automatically mean paying higher rates.
What kind of financial aid can I get for an online master’s in Nebraska?
The first step is filing the FAFSA, which determines eligibility for federal graduate student loans and some scholarships.
Many Nebraska schools also offer institutional scholarships or tuition discounts for master’s students, especially in high-demand fields. In addition, many employers, from school districts to large private companies, offer tuition reimbursement for job-related degrees. Some programs provide graduate assistantships or fellowships, which may include a stipend or partial tuition waiver in exchange for research or teaching support.
Given Nebraska’s relatively low tuition rates, many students are able to make an online master’s degree affordable with a mix of aid sources.
How long does it take to finish an online master’s degree?
Most online master’s degrees take about two years to complete full-time, but timelines vary based on pacing and program structure. Part-time students often take closer to three years or more, especially if balancing work or family commitments.
Completion time can also depend on whether the program includes a thesis or capstone project, which may add an extra semester. One of the main benefits of online learning is flexibility: you may start with one course at a time and increase your course load later.
Be aware that many programs set a maximum completion window, typically five to seven years. Academic advisors can help you map out a schedule that fits your goals, whether you want to move quickly or pace your degree more gradually.
Will I ever need to visit campus or attend in-person sessions?
Usually no. Most fully online master’s programs in Nebraska are designed to be completed entirely remotely.
Classes, discussions, and presentations typically take place online, making these programs accessible to distance learners. That said, some programs are technically hybrid or offer optional in-person components, such as orientations, leadership workshops, or short residencies. Licensure-track programs may require fieldwork or clinical hours, but these are often completed in your local area rather than on the main campus.