A laid-back culture, big aspirations: UNK’s College of Arts and Sciences stands out

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, we believe in the power of personal connection. In the College of Arts and Sciences, our students aren’t just names on a roster – they’re individuals with big goals, unique stories and unlimited potential. And we’re here to help them every step of the way.

Our faculty work one-on-one with students to support them in classrooms, labs, museums, recital halls and real-world experiences. This hands-on, personalized approach helps students feel supported, challenged and seen. At UNK, you’re part of a close-knit community that believes in you – and invests in you.

The vibe in our college is welcoming and laid back, giving students the room to explore their options and grow into their future. But make no mistake – we pair that welcoming culture with high expectations. Whether you’re set on medical school, aiming to become a teacher or still figuring things out, we’ll help you dream big and discover what’s possible.

We’re proud of our track record. Our health science programs have some of the highest placement rates in the region. Over 94% of our health science students are admitted to their professional school of choice – with 100% of our chemistry majors admitted to medical school. Our secondary education graduates are in high demand, with jobs often waiting for them before they even graduate.

Health science students made up more than a third of our incoming class last year – a reflection of the confidence students have in our programs. These students benefit from exceptional advising, strong peer learning communities and a deep partnership with regional hospitals. At a recent event we hosted for our Hospital Partners Network, many students walked away with rural immersion offers, paid internship commitments and even job offers – in some cases with medical school tuition support attached.

Still, the College of Arts and Sciences is more than a launchpad for future doctors and educators. It’s also a home for students who want to explore, think critically and take time to find the right path. From future lawyers in our Kearney Law Opportunities Program to artists, historians, musicians, scientists, broadcasters and writers, we support a broad spectrum of interests and ambitions.

And the outcomes speak for themselves. Two of the most recent student body presidents at the University of Nebraska Medical Center were UNK grads from our college. Students from our Law Opportunities Program are admitted not only to Nebraska Law, but also to prestigious national schools such as Georgetown. Many of our students go on to lead in health care, law, education and the arts – not just finding careers, but making a difference in their fields and communities.

UNK’s College of Arts and Sciences is a place where students feel at home yet are pushed to go further. Whether you’re laser-focused on a specific career or looking to discover your passion, there’s a place – and a path – for you here.

Paul Twigg
Dean, UNK College of Arts and Sciences