University of Nebraska at Kearney logo

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Kearney, NE

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Be Blue. Be Gold. BE BOLD.

1905
Founded
Public university
Type
4,130
Total Students
4,056
Undergrad
1,643
Graduate
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$14K
Tuition (Out-State)
$16K
Avg Net Price
86%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Jeffrey P. Gold

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Nebraska at Kearney

Be BOLD at UNK: A public university empowering students since 1905.

The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) stands as a vibrant public university, a cornerstone of higher education in Nebraska. With its inspiring motto, "Be Blue. Be Gold. BE BOLD.," UNK invites students to embrace a transformative academic journey within a supportive community of nearly 5,700 students. It's a place where students are encouraged to pursue their passions, develop critical skills, and become bold leaders ready to make an impact.

UNK boasts a rich and dynamic history, beginning in 1903 as the Kearney State Normal School. Over the decades, it evolved significantly, transitioning into a teachers college offering four-year degrees and later becoming Kearney State College. A landmark moment arrived in 1991 when, following a pivotal decision by the Nebraska Supreme Court, it proudly joined the esteemed University of Nebraska system. This journey showcases a powerful legacy of adaptation and a steadfast commitment to educational excellence, solidifying its role as a vital public institution.

As part of the prestigious University of Nebraska system, UNK offers robust academic programs designed to prepare students for a dynamic future. While the university has navigated recent financial challenges, leading to strategic adjustments in some programs and faculty positions, its dedication to fostering a strong, engaging learning environment remains unwavering. UNK continues to provide a valuable educational experience, nurturing talent and preparing its graduates to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1905, evolving from Kearney State Normal School to a comprehensive public university.
  • Proudly part of the esteemed University of Nebraska system since 1991.
  • Home to 5,699 students, fostering a vibrant and engaging campus community.
  • Embraces the inspiring motto: "Be Blue. Be Gold. BE BOLD."
  • Successfully transitioned to the University of Nebraska system following a Nebraska Supreme Court ruling.
  • Committed to strategic program adjustments to ensure a strong and sustainable future for its students.

Timeline

1903
Formed as the Kearney State Normal School by the Nebraska State Legislature.
1905
First building completed; Augustus O. Thomas served as the first president.
1921
Renamed Kearney State Teachers College, authorized to offer four-year degrees.
1963
Name changed again to Kearney State College.
1989
Announcement of transfer to the University of Nebraska system (initially blocked).
1990
Nebraska Supreme Court cleared the transfer decision.
1991
Officially re-branded as the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
2023
Planned elimination of over 24 faculty positions and nine degree programs due to budgetary shortfall.
🏛️
121 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at University of Nebraska at Kearney

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search