University of Nebraska-Lincoln – College of Business
Overview
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business offers a highly respected MBA program that is known for its flexibility and affordability. UNL’s MBA is available in three formats: full-time, part-time, and online, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional responsibilities. The program is designed to develop leadership skills, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making abilities. UNL offers several specializations, including finance, marketing, international business, and supply chain management. The school’s strong ties to the agriculture, healthcare, and financial industries in Nebraska provide excellent internship and career opportunities for MBA graduates.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: #53 (for online MBA)
- Number of Students: ~200 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Average GMAT Score: 620 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: Union Pacific, ConAgra, Mutual of Omaha, TD Ameritrade, Kiewit, Gallup
- Average Starting Salary: $90,000
Notable Alumni
- Warren Buffett: CEO of Berkshire Hathaway
- Tom Osborne: Former U.S. Congressman and College Football Coach
- Clayton Anderson: NASA Astronaut
- Walter Scott Jr.: Former CEO of Kiewit Corporation
Creighton University – Heider College of Business
Overview
Creighton University’s Heider College of Business offers a highly flexible MBA program designed for working professionals. Located in Omaha, Creighton’s MBA program emphasizes ethical leadership, innovation, and social responsibility. The program offers both on-campus and online options, with specializations in finance, healthcare management, financial psychology, and leadership. Heider’s strong focus on ethics is aligned with Creighton’s Jesuit values, fostering a culture of service and responsible business practices. The program provides students with extensive opportunities to network with Omaha’s vibrant business community, especially in the fields of healthcare, finance, and insurance.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~150 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Average GMAT Score: 610 (GMAT waivers available based on experience)
- Top Hiring Companies: Mutual of Omaha, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska, First National Bank of Omaha, TD Ameritrade, ConAgra
- Average Starting Salary: $85,000
Notable Alumni
- Timothy R. Busch: President of the American Hotel & Lodging Association
- Joe Ricketts: Founder of TD Ameritrade
- Daniel J. Gross: Former Editor of the Omaha World-Herald
- Patrick J. McCormick: CEO of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.
University of Nebraska at Omaha – College of Business Administration
Overview
The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration offers a practical and career-oriented MBA program. UNO’s MBA program is designed for professionals looking to advance their careers while continuing to work. The program offers both on-campus and online formats, providing flexibility for students. UNO’s strong focus on leadership development, analytics, and strategic thinking prepares students for managerial roles in industries such as healthcare, finance, and government. The program offers several concentrations, including business analytics, healthcare management, and investment science. UNO’s close ties to the Omaha business community create valuable networking and career opportunities for its graduates.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~120 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 60%
- Average GMAT Score: 600 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: Union Pacific, Gallup, First National Bank of Omaha, Kiewit, CHI Health
- Average Starting Salary: $82,000
Notable Alumni
- Jim Young: Former CEO of Union Pacific
- Dave Heineman: Former Governor of Nebraska
- Mike Fahey: Former Mayor of Omaha
- Ernie Goss: Renowned Economist and Researcher
Bellevue University – College of Business
Overview
Bellevue University, located in Bellevue, Nebraska, offers a flexible and affordable MBA program that is designed for working adults and professionals. Bellevue’s MBA program is available entirely online, making it an excellent option for students who need flexibility in their schedule. The program offers several concentrations, including project management, finance, marketing, and human resource management. Bellevue’s MBA emphasizes practical business skills, leadership development, and ethical decision-making. The program is particularly known for its strong connections to local businesses and its focus on preparing students for management roles in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~100 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 580 (GMAT waivers available for professionals with significant work experience)
- Top Hiring Companies: Gallup, Mutual of Omaha, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska, Union Pacific, TD Ameritrade
- Average Starting Salary: $75,000
Notable Alumni
- John S. Gates: CEO of PortaeCo
- Matt Davidson: CEO of Davidson & Associates
- Michael McCarthy: Former President of First Data
- Amy Hanson: CFO of Gallup
Nebraska Wesleyan University – Wesleyan Advantage MBA Program
Overview
Nebraska Wesleyan University offers an MBA program through its Wesleyan Advantage program, designed specifically for working professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and management skills. The program offers both on-campus and online courses, allowing students to complete their degree at their own pace. Nebraska Wesleyan’s MBA program focuses on ethical leadership, strategic decision-making, and global business strategies. The program emphasizes a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and close interaction with faculty. Wesleyan’s MBA is an excellent option for students interested in leadership roles in healthcare, education, and non-profit management.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~50 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average GMAT Score: 570 (GMAT waivers available for experienced professionals)
- Top Hiring Companies: Lincoln Financial Group, Bryan Health, Ameritas Life Insurance, Duncan Aviation, Union Bank & Trust
- Average Starting Salary: $72,000
Notable Alumni
- Tom Osborne: Former U.S. Congressman and College Football Coach
- Harvey Perlman: Former Chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Deb Fischer: U.S. Senator from Nebraska
- Hal Daub: Former U.S. Congressman and Mayor of Omaha
Midland University – Walker School of Business
Overview
Midland University, located in Fremont, Nebraska, offers an MBA program through its Walker School of Business. The program is designed for working professionals and offers a flexible schedule with evening and weekend classes, as well as online options. Midland’s MBA program focuses on leadership, innovation, and practical business skills, preparing students for management roles in industries such as healthcare, finance, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum is designed to be hands-on, with students participating in real-world business projects and internships. Midland’s small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty, and the program is known for its strong focus on ethics and social responsibility.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~30 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Average GMAT Score: 550 (GMAT waivers available)
- Top Hiring Companies: Methodist Health System, Cargill, Mutual of Omaha, TD Ameritrade, Valmont Industries
- Average Starting Salary: $70,000
Notable Alumni
- Clarke Balcom: CEO of Balcom Agency
- David Bracht: Partner at Kutak Rock LLP and Former Director of the Nebraska Energy Office
- Howard Hawks: Chairman and CEO of Tenaska Energy
- Toby Dorr: Author and Entrepreneur
Doane University – College of Business
Overview
Doane University’s College of Business offers a flexible and affordable MBA program that is tailored to working professionals. Located in Crete, Nebraska, Doane’s MBA program offers concentrations in areas such as healthcare management, nonprofit management, human resources, and project management. The program is designed to provide students with practical skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and business ethics. Doane’s MBA program is offered both on-campus and online, allowing students to complete their degree while balancing their work and personal lives. The program emphasizes personalized learning, small class sizes, and close mentorship from faculty.
Program Details
- Business Week Ranking: Not Ranked
- Number of Students: ~25 (Class size)
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Average GMAT Score: 560 (GMAT waivers available)
- Top Hiring Companies: Crete Carrier, Bryan Health, Lincoln Financial Group, Ameritas, Nebraska Department of Economic Development
- Average Starting Salary: $68,000
Notable Alumni
- Dale Jensen: Co-owner of the Arizona Diamondbacks
- Steve Nelson: CEO of Nebraska Farm Bureau
- Don Stenberg: Former Attorney General of Nebraska
- Cheryl Dorsey: President of Echoing Green