Omaha Colleges

Omaha is home to some of Nebraska’s most respected colleges and universities, offering students a range of opportunities in academics, athletics, and community engagement. Whether you’re looking for a large research university, a private institution with a strong reputation, or a flexible community college program, Omaha has something to fit your path. The three standouts in the city are the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), Creighton University, and Metropolitan Community College (Metro CC).

University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO)

UNO is Nebraska’s metropolitan university, blending big-city opportunities with a welcoming campus atmosphere. Known for its strong business, education, and information science programs, UNO also boasts nationally recognized athletics, including its Division I hockey team. The campus is modern and continuously expanding, with new student housing and academic facilities. UNO emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, making it a top choice for students who want to balance academics with real-world experience in Omaha’s growing job market.

Creighton University

Creighton University is a private, Jesuit institution nationally recognized for its excellence in health sciences, business, and law. Its medical, dental, and pharmacy schools are highly regarded, and Creighton’s commitment to service and leadership development is central to its identity. The campus is beautiful and historic, located just north of Downtown Omaha, with easy access to internships, cultural events, and city life. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, a close-knit community, and strong alumni connections worldwide.

Metropolitan Community College (Metro CC)

  • Website: https://www.mccneb.edu
  • Address: Multiple campuses across Omaha, main campus at 5300 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111
  • Phone: (531) 622-2400

Metro CC provides affordable and flexible education for students seeking career-focused training, associate degrees, or a stepping stone to a four-year university. With multiple campuses across the city, Metro CC makes education accessible no matter where you live in Omaha. Popular programs include culinary arts, trades, IT, healthcare, and business. Metro’s partnerships with local employers and universities help students transition smoothly into the workforce or continue their education at UNO, Creighton, or other institutions.

Other Colleges and Specialty Schools in Omaha

College of Saint Mary

  • Website: https://www.csm.edu
  • Address: 7000 Mercy Rd, Omaha, NE 68106
  • Phone: (402) 399-2400
  • A private Catholic women’s college with strong programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and education. They offer small class sizes and a supportive campus community.

Clarkson College

  • Website: https://www.clarksoncollege.edu
  • Address: 101 S 42nd St, Omaha, NE 68131
  • Phone: (402) 552-3100
  • A health sciences college affiliated with Nebraska Medicine. It’s highly regarded for nursing, radiography, medical imaging, and healthcare leadership programs.

Nebraska Methodist College

  • Website: https://www.methodistcollege.edu
  • Address: 720 N 87th St, Omaha, NE 68114
  • Phone: (402) 354-7000
  • Another healthcare-focused school that specializes in nursing and allied health degrees, from associate to doctoral levels. Known for flexible online and hybrid programs.

Bellevue University (just south of Omaha in Bellevue)

  • Website: https://www.bellevue.edu
  • Address: 1000 Galvin Rd S, Bellevue, NE 68005
  • Phone: (402) 293-2000
  • While technically in Bellevue, it’s part of the Omaha metro. Bellevue University is popular for working adults, offering many online programs, business degrees, and career-oriented options.

Student Life in Omaha

Being a student in Omaha means more than just going to class. The city has a lively mix of culture, sports, and entertainment that makes college life fun and well-rounded.

  • Housing: Students can choose from on-campus dorms, apartment complexes near campus, or affordable rentals throughout the city. UNO and Creighton both have modern student housing, while Metro CC students often live off-campus.
  • Sports and Activities: Omaha is passionate about sports, from college hockey at UNO to the annual College World Series that draws national attention every June. Many schools also offer intramural sports, fitness centers, and student clubs.
  • Arts and Culture: Students enjoy access to museums, music venues, theaters, and local festivals. The Joslyn Art Museum, Orpheum Theater, and Holland Performing Arts Center are popular weekend spots.
  • Nightlife and Dining: Midtown and Downtown Omaha are filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and nightlife options. From casual diners to trendy breweries, there’s plenty to explore when you want a break from studying.
  • Outdoor Life: With over 250 parks, biking trails, and the nearby Missouri River, Omaha makes it easy for students to enjoy nature and stay active.
  • Community Connections: Many schools partner with local businesses for internships and volunteer opportunities. Students often gain real-world experience while building connections that help after graduation.

From large research universities to private Jesuit education to affordable and flexible community college options, Omaha offers a wide variety of higher education choices. UNO, Creighton, and Metro CC are the city’s cornerstones, while schools like College of Saint Mary, Clarkson College, Nebraska Methodist College, and Bellevue University add even more opportunities for students to find their best fit. Pair that with a vibrant student life full of sports, arts, food, and community, and Omaha becomes more than just a place to study — it’s a place to thrive.