City education guide
Lincoln NE
Schools, degree programs and student life in Lincoln NE. Compare sponsored programs below, or tell us what you want to study.
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Discover Lincoln NE
Lincoln, Nebraska – A friendly Midwestern gem where prairie charm meets city spirit, Lincoln blends vibrant culture, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community. From cheering on the Nebraska Cornhuskers to exploring local art and green spaces, Lincoln offers a refreshing slice of Americana with modern flair. Whether you're a sports fan, foodie, history buff, or nature lover, Nebraska’s capital city welcomes you with open arms.
- Population: ~293,000
- Weather: Four seasons; warm summers (70–90°F), cold winters (20–40°F), colorful springs and falls.
- Places To Visit: Sunken Gardens, Nebraska State Capitol, Sheldon Museum of Art, Pioneers Park Nature Center, Haymarket District.
- Top Activities: Attending college football games, biking the MoPac Trail, exploring local breweries, shopping in the Historic Haymarket, enjoying live music downtown.
- Famous Food: Runza sandwiches, Nebraska beef burgers, Kolaches, and craft beer from local breweries like Zipline and Blue Blood.
Fun facts
Lincoln, Nebraska is more than just the state capital—it's a city full of charm, history, and fun surprises. Whether you're a local or planning to visit, here are some fascinating facts that make Lincoln unique:
- Home of Huskers – Lincoln proudly hosts the University of Nebraska and its famous Cornhuskers football team, drawing over 85,000 fans to Memorial Stadium on game days.
- Capitol Wonder – The Nebraska State Capitol in Lincoln is the country's first statehouse built with a tower design, rising 400 feet above the city.
- Bike-Friendly City – With over 130 miles of trails, Lincoln consistently ranks as one of the most bikeable cities in the Midwest.
- Sunken Gardens Surprise – Lincoln is home to the stunning Sunken Gardens, which was built in 1930 during the Great Depression and remains a top free attraction today.
- Unusual History – Before it was renamed for President Abraham Lincoln, the city was called Lancaster. The name change happened in hopes of swaying favor during a heated political debate.
- Jazz Roots – In the mid-20th century, Lincoln was a hotbed for jazz and swing music, hosting big names like Duke Ellington and Count Basie.
- Cultural Hub – The Sheldon Museum of Art on the UNL campus features works by Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and other major artists—all with free admission.
- Botanic Beauty – The Lincoln Children's Zoo is one of the few zoos in the country specially built for kids and includes over 400 animals and interactive exhibits.
- Tech Growth – Known as the “Silicon Prairie,” Lincoln has become a tech startup hotspot, with new companies and entrepreneurs calling the city home.
- Record-Setting Stadium – On Husker football days, Memorial Stadium becomes the third largest “city” in Nebraska—larger than most actual towns in the state!
Jobs and careers
Lincoln, Nebraska is a growing city known for its strong economy, affordable living, and well-rounded job market. With strengths in healthcare, education, government, and technology, Lincoln offers a variety of career paths for professionals at all levels. Below are some of the most sought-after jobs in this vibrant Midwest city.
Top 5 Jobs in Lincoln, NE
| Job Title | Average Salary | Industry |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | ~$68,000 | Healthcare |
| Information Security Analyst | ~$87,000 | Technology |
| High School Teacher | ~$60,000 | Education |
| Accountant | ~$67,000 | Finance |
| Medical Laboratory Technician | ~$54,000 | Healthcare |
High schools
Lincoln, NE is home to some excellent high schools, both public and private, that offer students strong academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and support for college and career readiness. Whether families are looking for STEM-focused education, advanced placement courses, or personalized instruction, Lincoln has a range of high school options to meet diverse needs.
Top Public High Schools In Lincoln, Nebraska
- Lincoln East High School – Known for its academic excellence, East offers a wide range of AP courses and strong athletic and music programs. It consistently ranks among the top public schools in Nebraska.
- Lincoln Southeast High School – With a long tradition of academic success, Southeast offers honors courses, AP classes, and a wide variety of clubs and activities, supporting well-rounded student growth.
- Lincoln High School – One of the oldest schools in the city, Lincoln High emphasizes academic achievement and cultural diversity. It features an International Baccalaureate (IB) program that draws students from across the district.
- North Star High School – A leader in STEM education in Lincoln, North Star offers Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and a variety of AP classes. The school promotes both academic and personal development.
- Southwest High School – Known for its strong graduation rate and high test scores, Southwest offers students a variety of elective courses, from engineering to the fine arts.
Top Private High Schools In Lincoln, Nebraska
- Pius X High School – The largest Catholic high school in Nebraska, Pius X offers a faith-based education combined with strong academics, athletics, and arts programs. It has a reputation for preparing students well for college.
- Lincoln Christian School – A top-rated private school offering a Christ-centered education, Lincoln Christian emphasizes academic success, spiritual formation, and leadership development.
- Parkview Christian School – A small school with a close-knit community, Parkview provides a faith-based curriculum with a strong focus on individualized student support.
- Cornhusker Christian School – Known for its affordable private education and focus on biblical values, Cornhusker Christian offers small class sizes and a personalized approach to learning.
- College View Academy – A Seventh-day Adventist school with a college-preparatory curriculum, College View combines strong academics with an emphasis on service, integrity, and community.
Colleges and universities
Lincoln, Nebraska is a vibrant Midwest city with a strong educational foundation. It is home to several well-regarded colleges and universities that offer excellent programs in areas such as agriculture, engineering, business, healthcare, and the liberal arts. Whether public or private, these institutions are vital to the city's growth and innovation.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Lincoln
University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) – As the state's flagship university, UNL is a top-tier public research institution offering nationally recognized programs in agriculture, engineering, journalism, and business. The Big Ten university is deeply rooted in research, innovation, and student success.
Southeast Community College (SCC) – Lincoln Campus – SCC provides career-focused degrees and certificates in fields such as healthcare, skilled trades, and business. With strong partnerships in the community, it serves as a key provider of workforce education in the region.
University of Nebraska Medical Center – Lincoln Division – This branch of the prestigious UNMC supports healthcare education and medical research. It plays a critical role in training future health professionals and improving community health in Nebraska.
Nebraska Wesleyan University's Adult and Graduate Studies (public–private partnership) – While its main campus is private, NWU also collaborates with public institutions to provide continuing education and graduate degrees in Lincoln, broadening educational access to adult learners in the city.
UNL College of Law – Part of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, this public law school is widely respected for its low tuition, strong bar passage rates, and commitment to public service. It produces many of the state’s top legal professionals.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Lincoln
Nebraska Wesleyan University – A leading private liberal arts college, NWU is known for its strong programs in biology, education, and pre-med. It offers a student-centered approach with a commitment to academic excellence and civic engagement.
Union College (NE) – This Seventh-day Adventist college focuses on healthcare-related programs such as nursing and physician assistant training. Its supportive, values-based environment gives students a well-rounded academic experience.
Doane University – Lincoln Campus – Doane’s Lincoln campus offers adult-focused programs and graduate degrees, especially in education, business, and counseling. It provides flexible formats for working professionals seeking career advancement.
College of Hair Design – A specialized private postsecondary school offering hands-on training in cosmetology, barber arts, and esthetics. It combines practical experience with small class sizes for a focused learning experience.
Bryan College of Health Sciences – Affiliated with Bryan Health, this private college offers top-notch programs in nursing, sonography, and healthcare leadership. Its strong clinical partnerships give students real-world experience in patient care.
Sports teams
While Lincoln, Nebraska does not have any major league professional sports teams, it serves as a passionate sports city with strong ties to college athletics and several minor league and semi-professional teams that offer exciting sports entertainment throughout the year.
⚾ Baseball – Lincoln Saltdogs (American Association of Professional Baseball)
- Lincoln Saltdogs – The Saltdogs are a professional baseball team competing in the American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB), an independent league not affiliated with Major League Baseball. They play at Haymarket Park, one of the top minor league stadiums in the country. Founded in 2001, the team has won several division titles and earned a loyal local fan base.
🏈 Football – Nebraska Danger (Indoor Football League)
- Nebraska Danger – Although based in nearby Grand Island, the Nebraska Danger has had a strong following in Lincoln. They competed in the Indoor Football League (IFL) and were known for their competitive play and exciting home games. The team suspended operations in 2019, but indoor football remains popular in the region.
⚽ Soccer – Lincoln Peak FC (National Premier Soccer League)
- Lincoln Peak FC – A relatively new team competing in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), Lincoln Peak FC represents the growing interest in soccer in Nebraska. The team offers local athletes and fans a chance to enjoy competitive soccer at an affordable and community-focused level.
🏒 Hockey – Lincoln Stars (United States Hockey League)
- Lincoln Stars – The Stars are a Tier I junior ice hockey team in the United States Hockey League (USHL). Since their founding in 1996, they’ve developed young players who often go on to play NCAA Division I hockey and even the NHL. They play at the Ice Box, which provides fans with fast-paced and family-friendly hockey entertainment.
🏀 Basketball – No Major League or Minor League Basketball Team
- While Lincoln does not currently have a professional basketball team, the sport remains popular at the local and collegiate levels—especially through the Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s and women’s basketball teams at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Though Lincoln may not host a major professional sports franchise, local teams and the passionate support for the Nebraska Cornhuskers contribute to a thriving sports culture that brings the community together year-round.
Places for students
Lincoln, NE offers a variety of spots where students can relax, hang out, and enjoy their free time. Whether you’re into arts, outdoor activities, or coffee, Lincoln has some awesome places to explore.
Holmes Lake Park – This park is perfect for picnics, fishing, or just taking a walk. The open space and scenic views make it a great spot to unwind.
The Railyard – Known for its bustling atmosphere, The Railyard is packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. It's a great place to grab food and enjoy live music.
Pinnacle Bank Arena Area – Aside from catching Huskers games, this area is lively, with concerts and events happening frequently, plus plenty of nearby dining options.
Sunken Gardens – A beautiful and serene spot for those who love nature and photography. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or quiet study session outdoors.
Sheldon Museum of Art – This museum offers a break from the usual hangout scene. With its vast art collections, it's a great place for inspiration and creativity.
Zoo Bar – Experience live blues music in an intimate setting. This iconic Lincoln spot is perfect for music lovers and those looking to unwind with good tunes.
Ivanna Cone – Treat yourself to some unique ice cream flavors at this local favorite. It’s a colorful and cozy spot to satisfy your sweet cravings.
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