University Of Nebraska At Kearney

University of Nebraska at Kearney publishes a cost of attendance of $24,452 annually, including $14,260 in out-of-state tuition, $11,936 for room and board, and $770 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $8,302.

However, the average student pays just $16,488 after financial aid—a savings of $7,964 from the published price. This net price sits $2,395 above the peer median of $14,093, indicating UNK costs moderately more than similar regional universities.

The combination of published prices and actual net costs reflects UNK's approach to broad accessibility through financial aid while maintaining revenue from higher-income families. Nebraska residents benefit substantially from the in-state tuition advantage, making UNK particularly attractive for state residents.

The financial aid savings of nearly $8,000 annually demonstrates the university's commitment to affordability through need-based and merit assistance. Families should focus on net price rather than sticker price when evaluating affordability, as the majority of students receive meaningful financial aid reductions.

The cost structure supports UNK's mission as a regional public university serving diverse economic populations while maintaining financial sustainability.

University of Nebraska at Kearney graduates demonstrate consistent earnings growth across their early career trajectory. Median earnings rise from $43,241 six years after enrollment to $48,009 at eight years and $50,105 at ten years, representing 15.9% growth from the six-year mark.

These outcomes reflect data from substantial cohorts: 1,598 graduates at six years, 1,910 at eight years, and 1,843 at ten years, providing high confidence in reported figures. The university generates $4,920 in earnings beyond expectations compared to similar students nationally, ranking at the 73.6th percentile for this value-added measure.

Low-income graduates earn $43,500, placing UNK in the top 50% nationally for outcomes among students from lower-income backgrounds. Earnings distribution spans from $35,587 at the 25th percentile to $67,898 at the 75th percentile, reflecting varied career paths across the university's program portfolio.

Approximately 23.0% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating the university prepares students for both immediate workforce entry and advanced education pathways.

University of Nebraska at Kearney offers 17 bachelor's degree programs with sufficient federal earnings data for analysis. Business Administration and Management ranks #104 nationally and #1 in Nebraska, graduating 152 students with median earnings of $60,599 and a value score of 69.6.

Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies stands out with a #6 national ranking and #1 state ranking, producing 57 graduates earning $47,372 with an exceptional value score of 83.9. Adult and Continuing Education ranks #125 nationally and #3 in Nebraska, graduating 105 students with median earnings of $38,853.

Agricultural Teacher Education ranks #81 nationally and #2 in Nebraska, graduating 32 students earning $47,021. Psychology General ranks #134 nationally and #1 in Nebraska, with 37 graduates earning $44,525.

Several programs hold flagship status at the university, including ten programs marked as top majors, reflecting UNK's role as a regional comprehensive university with diverse program strengths.

University of Nebraska at Kearney admits 85.8% of applicants, meaning roughly 5 in 6 applicants receive offers of admission. This places UNK in the Open Access category for selectivity, where admission is accessible to most students who meet basic qualifications.

The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates UNK admits students at rates typical for similar regional public universities. This level of accessibility means students with solid academic preparation can expect favorable admission odds.

UNK's approach emphasizes broad educational access rather than competitive selection, making it a reliable option for students building college lists. The university's mission centers on serving Nebraska residents and regional students seeking quality education without the uncertainty of highly competitive admission processes.

Students should view UNK as a strong foundation school that provides security while building a balanced college list. The combination of accessible admission with demonstrated value-added outcomes makes UNK particularly attractive for students prioritizing educational opportunity and return on investment over institutional selectivity rankings.