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University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Literis Dedicata et Omnibus Artibus”("Dedicated to Letters and All the Arts")

1869
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
18,887
Total Students
19,376
Undergrad
4,578
Graduate
$2.5B
Endowment
(2024)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
6-year
84%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Jeffrey P. Gold

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

About University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Pioneering research, spirited athletics, and a rich history define Nebraska's flagship university.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) stands as the proud flagship institution and oldest university in Nebraska, a dynamic public land-grant research powerhouse. From its roots in 1869, UNL has grown into an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" powerhouse, offering a vibrant academic environment for nearly 24,000 students seeking to make their mark on the world. Its commitment to discovery is evident, with an impressive $320 million spent on research and development in 2020 alone.

UNL's journey began with a charter from the Nebraska Legislature, fueled by the Morrill Act of 1862. Despite early challenges, visionary leaders and a dedication to "Letters and All the Arts" (Literis Dedicata et Omnibus Artibus) propelled its growth. By the turn of the century, under Chancellor James Hulme Canfield, the university saw significant expansion and the establishment of key professional schools like the College of Law and the School of Agriculture, laying a robust foundation for its future.

Academically, UNL is organized into nine colleges, providing over two hundred diverse degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Beyond its core offerings, the university extends its reach through partnerships, including programs with the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Colleges of Dentistry and Nursing, and the Peter Kiewit Institute, emphasizing interdisciplinary and practical education. Students benefit from a campus featuring over one hundred classroom and research facilities, including the innovative Nebraska Innovation Campus.

Life at UNL is deeply intertwined with the legendary spirit of the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Competing in NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference, the Cornhuskers boast a storied athletic history, including five national football championships. This winning tradition extends beyond the field, with 111 former student-athletes earning 54 Olympic medals. The university's impact is further underscored by its accomplished alumni network, which includes three Nobel laureates, four Pulitzer Prize winners, one Turing Award winner, and twenty-two Rhodes Scholars, inspiring current students to achieve greatness.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1869, UNL is Nebraska's oldest and flagship public land-grant research university.
  • ✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," with $320 million in research and development expenditures in 2020.
  • ✦Home to the iconic Cornhuskers, competing in NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference with 5 national football championships.
  • ✦Boasts an impressive alumni network that includes 3 Nobel laureates, 4 Pulitzer Prize winners, 1 Turing Award winner, and 22 Rhodes Scholars.
  • ✦Student-athletes have collectively earned 54 Olympic medals, including 16 gold.
  • ✦Serves 23,954 students across over two hundred degree programs offered through nine colleges.
  • ✦Manages an endowment of $2.5 billion, supporting its extensive academic and research initiatives.

Timeline

1862
Morrill Act provides federal land grants, laying the foundation for public universities.
1869
University of Nebraska chartered by the Nebraska Legislature; cornerstone laid for University Hall.
1871
Welcomed its inaugural class of collegiate and preparatory students.
1873
Offered its first academic degrees to graduating students.
1891
James Hulme Canfield becomes chancellor, initiating aggressive campus expansion and reforms.
1895
The College of Law and School of Agriculture are established; Architecture Hall (originally University Library) is built.
1899
The university's football team is first referred to as the "Cornhuskers" by a local newspaper.
1904
John D. Rockefeller's investment leads to the construction of The Temple.
1923
Iconic Memorial Stadium is completed and dedicated, honoring Nebraskan servicemen.
1968
Absorbed Municipal University of Omaha, becoming the University of Nebraska–Lincoln within the new statewide system.
🏛️
157 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Nebraska-Lincoln

⚖️

College of Law

Established in 1895, offering comprehensive legal education.

🏫

School of Agriculture

Established in 1895, dedicated to advancements in agricultural sciences.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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