At the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s College of Education, we do more than prepare students for a job – we prepare them to change lives.
When students join our college, they step into a culture defined by care, community and purpose. Faculty members know their students by name and by their stories. They don’t just teach; they mentor, support and inspire. That personal connection is the foundation for everything we do – and it’s one reason why students in our college feel they belong from day one.
Our mission is simple and profound: to help students gain the knowledge and skills they need to make life better – for themselves and for others. Whether they’re training to become teachers, school administrators, speech-language pathologists, mental health professionals, supporters of families or health and wellness leaders, our students are focused on service and impact. They leave our classrooms ready to lead – in Nebraska communities and across the country.
At a time when Nebraska – and the nation – is experiencing a critical shortage of educators, UNK is stepping up to fill the gap. A high percentage of teachers, counselors and school administrators across the state are proud graduates of our college. It’s rare to find a Nebraska school that doesn’t have at least one Loper leading the way. Our reach is wide, and our role in building and sustaining the state’s education workforce is unmatched.
What sets our college apart is the hands-on experience built into every program. Our students don’t wait until graduation to make a difference. They’re out in the field working in schools, counseling centers, clinics and fitness facilities. From internships in sports management to practicums in counseling and school psychology, from student teaching in Nebraska classrooms to helping clients overcome communication challenges – UNK students are gaining real-world experience every step of the way.
We attract students who want to help others – who are passionate about people and driven to make the world a better place. That’s our culture. That’s our calling. And that’s why the impact of our graduates is felt across the state and far beyond.
Our alumni are school psychologists, counselors, exercise scientists, family science professionals, sports management executives, school leaders and teachers. They are the heart of their communities. They are improving lives – just as they were trained to do at UNK.
The College of Education is proud to be a place where students become agents of change. We invite future educators, helpers and leaders to join us in this important work.
There’s no better place to start that journey than right here in Kearney. Right here in the College of Education at UNK.
Mark Reid
Dean, UNK College of Education
