University campus in Nebraska
Updated January 2026

Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska — 2026 Rankings

Compare the top machine learning colleges in Nebraska. 8 accredited machine learning schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Metropolitan Community College Area to University of Nebraska at Omaha.

#1 ProgramU of Nebraska at Omaha
Avg Salary$91,560
Tuition From$3,060/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Best machine learning degree programs: U of Nebraska at Omaha, U of Nebraska-Lincoln, Hastings College

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $3,060 to $45,000/year

Metropolitan Community Co... offers the most affordable option at $3,060/yr

IPEDS 2023

Machine Learning degree programs available: 2 associate's, 2 master's, 2 doctoral in Nebraska

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

Nebraska community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade, Gallup

Tech hubs in Omaha and Lincoln

Hakia Research 2026

Machine Learning degree programs near 20+ cities across Nebraska

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$91,560
Are Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska Worth It?
Yes. The best machine learning degree programs in Nebraska deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $91,560 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $22,204/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs in Nebraska, 2026

6
Programs
$91,560
Median Salary
$28,555/yr
Avg Tuition
94%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Nebraska ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Nebraska at Omaha, U of Nebraska-Lincoln, Hastings College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Nebraska machine learning programs earn a median salary of $77,826—21% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $6,536 to $45,000 annually, with an average of $28,555/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 94%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Nebraska's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Nebraska, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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University of Nebraska at Omaha

PublicNSA CAE
Omaha, NE
$6,536
Tuition/yr
$243
Per Credit
97%
Grad Rate
74.7
Score
Website
🥈

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Public
Lincoln, NE
$8,010
Tuition/yr
$268
Per Credit
67.9
Score
Website
🥉

Hastings College

Private
Hastings, NE
$33,950
Tuition/yr
$1,405
Per Credit
95%
Grad Rate
58.9
Score
Website
#4

Concordia University-Nebraska

Private
Seward, NE
$38,500
Tuition/yr
$1,000
Per Credit
91%
Grad Rate
54.0
Score
Website
#5

Creighton University

Private
Omaha, NE
$45,000
Tuition/yr
$1,408
Per Credit
57.3
Score
Website

Best Machine Learning Master's Programs in Nebraska, 2026

2
Programs
$91,560
Median Salary
$7,273/yr
Avg Tuition
97%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Nebraska offers 2 master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—U of Nebraska at Omaha, U of Nebraska-Lincoln—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Nebraska earn a median salary of $91,560, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $7,273/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Nebraska's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

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University of Nebraska at Omaha

PublicNSA CAE
Omaha, NE
$6,536
Tuition/yr
$243
Per Credit
97%
Grad Rate
74.3
Score
Website
🥈

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Public
Lincoln, NE
$8,010
Tuition/yr
$268
Per Credit
59.5
Score
Website

Best Machine Learning Associate's Programs in Nebraska, 2026

2
Programs
$91,560
Median Salary
$3,150/yr
Avg Tuition

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Nebraska offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in machine learning, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Metropolitan Community Co..., Northeast Community College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Nebraska offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,150/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $50,358 in Nebraska.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Nebraska's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among machine learning schools in Nebraska, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their machine learning degrees in Nebraska.

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Metropolitan Community College Area

Public
Omaha, NE
$3,060
Tuition/yr
$68
Per Credit
43.9
Score
Website
🥈

Northeast Community College

Public
Norfolk, NE
$3,240
Tuition/yr
$108
Per Credit
37.4
Score
Website

Best Machine Learning Doctoral Programs in Nebraska, 2026

2
Programs
$91,560
Median Salary
$7,273/yr
Avg Tuition
97%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Nebraska is home to 2 doctoral programs in machine learning, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Nebraska-Lincoln, U of Nebraska at Omaha are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.

Career Outcomes

Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Nebraska PhD holders earning a median of $114,450—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade.

Costs & Value

PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.

Curriculum & Specializations

Research strengths across Nebraska programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing machine learning degrees in Nebraska, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

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University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Public
Lincoln, NE
$8,010
Tuition/yr
$268
Per Credit
49.5
Score
Website
🥈

University of Nebraska at Omaha

PublicNSA CAE
Omaha, NE
$6,536
Tuition/yr
$243
Per Credit
97%
Grad Rate
55.5
Score
Website

Complete Machine Learning Degree Program Rankings in Nebraska

Best Associate's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

### Program Landscape Nebraska offers **2 accredited** associate's degree programs in machine learning, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Metropolitan Community Co...**, **Northeast Community College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in Nebraska offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$3,150/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$50,358** in Nebraska. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Nebraska's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among machine learning schools in Nebraska, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their machine learning degrees in Nebraska.

  1. #1. Metropolitan Community College Area

    Hakia ranks Metropolitan Community College Area as the #1 associate's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Omaha, NE has annual tuition of $3,060 ($68/credit). Ranking score: 43.9.

  2. #2. Northeast Community College

    Hakia ranks Northeast Community College as the #2 associate's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Norfolk, NE has annual tuition of $3,240 ($108/credit). Ranking score: 37.4.

Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

### Program Landscape Nebraska ranks among the nation's top destinations for machine learning education, with **6 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **2 public** and **4 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **U of Nebraska at Omaha**, **U of Nebraska-Lincoln**, **Hastings College**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Nebraska machine learning programs earn a median salary of **$77,826**—21% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$6,536** to **$45,000** annually, with an average of **$28,555/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **94%**, with the highest reaching **97%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Nebraska's leading technology employers. For students seeking machine learning degrees in Nebraska, these top-ranked machine learning schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. University of Nebraska at Omaha

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska at Omaha as the #1 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Omaha, NE has annual tuition of $6,536 ($243/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 74.7. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

    Watch: UNO Campus Tour

  2. #2. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska-Lincoln as the #2 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Lincoln, NE has annual tuition of $8,010 ($268/credit). Ranking score: 67.9.

    Watch: Welcome to Our Campus: Explore Center

  3. #3. Hastings College

    Hakia ranks Hastings College as the #3 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This private institution in Hastings, NE has annual tuition of $33,950 ($1405/credit) and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 58.9.

  4. #4. Concordia University-Nebraska

    Hakia ranks Concordia University-Nebraska as the #4 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This private institution in Seward, NE has annual tuition of $38,500 ($1000/credit) and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 54.0.

  5. #5. Creighton University

    Hakia ranks Creighton University as the #5 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This private institution in Omaha, NE has annual tuition of $45,000 ($1408/credit). Ranking score: 57.3.

  6. #6. Doane University

    Hakia ranks Doane University as the #6 bachelor's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This private institution in Crete, NE has annual tuition of $39,336 ($1311/credit). Ranking score: 41.1.

Best Master's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

### Program Landscape Nebraska offers **2** master's degree programs in machine learning, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Nebraska at Omaha**, **U of Nebraska-Lincoln**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Nebraska earn a median salary of **$91,560**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$7,273/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Nebraska's machine learning schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. University of Nebraska at Omaha

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska at Omaha as the #1 master's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Omaha, NE has annual tuition of $6,536 ($243/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 74.3. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

    Watch: UNO Campus Tour

  2. #2. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska-Lincoln as the #2 master's in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Lincoln, NE has annual tuition of $8,010 ($268/credit). Ranking score: 59.5.

    Watch: Welcome to Our Campus: Explore Center

Best Doctoral Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

### Program Landscape Nebraska is home to **2** doctoral programs in machine learning, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Nebraska-Lincoln**, **U of Nebraska at Omaha** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages. ### Career Outcomes Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Nebraska PhD holders earning a median of **$114,450**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Mutual of Omaha, First Data, TD Ameritrade. ### Costs & Value PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually. ### Curriculum & Specializations Research strengths across Nebraska programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing machine learning degrees in Nebraska, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

  1. #1. University of Nebraska-Lincoln

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska-Lincoln as the #1 doctoral in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Lincoln, NE has annual tuition of $8,010 ($268/credit). Ranking score: 49.5.

  2. #2. University of Nebraska at Omaha

    Hakia ranks University of Nebraska at Omaha as the #2 doctoral in machine learning degree program in Nebraska. This public institution in Omaha, NE has annual tuition of $6,536 ($243/credit) and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 55.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.

Machine Learning Degree Costs & Tuition in Nebraska

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$22,204/year
Average out-of-state tuition$55,510/year
Community college tuition$5,551/year
4-year savings for residents$133,224
2+2 transfer pathway savings$33,306

Source: IPEDS 2023

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Machine Learning Students in Nebraska

State Aid Programs

Nebraska residents pursuing machine learning degrees have access to several financial aid options designed to make higher education more affordable. The Nebraska Opportunity Grant is a need-based grant program available to eligible Nebraska residents attending participating institutions throughout the state. This grant complements federal aid programs, allowing students to layer multiple funding sources. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The FAFSA opens October 1st each year and should be submitted as early as possible to maximize aid eligibility.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state and federal aid, Nebraska's 13 institutions offering machine learning programs, including the University of Nebraska system's three campuses, provide institutional scholarships and assistantships. Many schools offer merit-based scholarships for strong academic records and need-based institutional aid packages. The Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education provides comprehensive information about state financial aid programs and transfer opportunities. Students should contact their chosen institution's financial aid office to explore program-specific scholarships in machine learning, computer science, and related fields. Additionally, the Nebraska Transfer Initiative facilitates credit transfer among public institutions, potentially reducing overall education costs when students begin at community colleges before transferring to four-year universities.

Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator — Nebraska

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree in Nebraska. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a machine learning degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+1064%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,967,896

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$147,619

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return5.5%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Machine Learning Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Nebraska metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Omaha$101K
Lincoln$96K
Bellevue$92K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Machine Learning Graduates in Nebraska

Find machine learning jobs in Nebraska. These major employers across Nebraska metro areas are actively hiring machine learning degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Machine Learning Jobs in Omaha

NE
Mutual of Omaha
insurance
Kiewit
construction
PayPal/Venmo
fintech
Buildertrend
tech
Union Pacific
railroad

Machine Learning Jobs in Lincoln

NE
Hudl
tech
Nelnet
fintech
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
education

Transfer Pathways for Machine Learning Degrees in Nebraska

State Transfer System

Nebraska's Nebraska Transfer Initiative, administered by the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education, facilitates smooth credit transfer among public institutions across the state. This system is invaluable for students beginning their machine learning education at one of Nebraska's 16 community college institutions and later transferring to bachelor's degree programs. The state's community colleges, including Metropolitan Community College Area (#1 ranked with $3,060 tuition), Southeast Community College Area ($2,912 tuition), Northeast Community College ($3,240 tuition), and Central Community College ($2,880 tuition), offer 9 associate's completions annually in machine learning. These programs provide foundational coursework in programming, mathematics, and introductory machine learning concepts designed explicitly for seamless transfer to the University of Nebraska system and other four-year institutions.

How Transfers Work

Students leveraging the Nebraska Transfer Initiative can complete an associate's degree at significantly lower cost, as little as $2,568 annually at Western Nebraska Community College, before transferring to bachelor's programs like those at the University of Nebraska at Omaha ($6,536 tuition, 96.6% graduation rate) or University of Nebraska-Lincoln ($8,010 tuition). Articulation agreements between community colleges and four-year institutions ensure that coursework in mathematics, computer science, and general education transfers directly, minimizing credit loss and accelerating time-to-degree. The affordability advantage is substantial: a student could complete two years at a community college for approximately $5,760 to $6,480 total, then transfer to a highly-ranked bachelor's program. For additional financial support, Nebraska residents may qualify for the Nebraska Opportunity Grant, a need-based grant program. Prospective transfer students should explore pathways across National Affordable Programs and related fields like Data Science in Nebraska to maximize educational value and financial efficiency.

Why Pursue a Machine Learning Degree in Nebraska?

Industry & Workforce

Nebraska offers a strong and accessible pathway into machine learning education with 13 institutions offering programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). The state awarded 251 bachelor's degrees, 52 master's degrees, 9 associate's degrees, and 10 doctoral degrees in machine learning during the 2023 academic year, demonstrating substantial enrollment and completion rates. Two universities dominate the landscape: the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Nebraska at Omaha together produced 283 completions, making them regional powerhouses in machine learning education. This concentration of quality programs means students have multiple pathways to enter the field without leaving the state.

Salary Outlook

The affordability of Nebraska's machine learning programs is a significant advantage. Average public in-state tuition at four-year institutions stands at just $6,668 annually, compared to $13,974 for out-of-state students (College Scorecard). Top-ranked schools like the University of Nebraska at Omaha charge only $6,536 per year while maintaining a 96.6% graduation rate. The state's major employment hubs in Omaha and Lincoln, home to employers like Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, and Berkshire Hathaway, create direct career opportunities for graduates. Additionally, Nebraska residents can access the Nebraska Opportunity Grant, a need-based financial aid program, through the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education, further reducing education costs. Students interested in related fields should explore Data Science in Nebraska, Artificial Intelligence in Nebraska, and Computer Science in Nebraska.

8 Programs
Machine Learning Program Availability in Nebraska
Nebraska offers 8 accredited machine learning programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue.

Source: IPEDS 2023

Machine Learning Job Market & Salary Data in Nebraska

Employment Outlook

Nebraska's machine learning job market is supported by a strong higher education pipeline, with 13 institutions offering machine learning programs across associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels (IPEDS). The state produced 251 bachelor's degree completions, 52 master's degree completions, and 10 doctoral completions in 2023, creating a steady stream of talent for employers (IPEDS). The two largest metropolitan areas. Omaha-Council Bluffs and Lincoln, represent the primary employment hubs for machine learning professionals, with Lincoln serving as the state capital and Omaha as the largest metro area.

Salaries by Metro

The state's major employers actively seek machine learning talent across diverse sectors. Nebraska Medicine, Union Pacific, and Berkshire Hathaway represent significant employers with substantial technology operations and data-driven decision-making needs (BLS State Data). The University of Nebraska system itself represents a major employer and research hub. For comprehensive labor market data, including occupation-specific salaries and growth projections for computing and technology roles in Nebraska, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Students interested in related fields should explore Artificial Intelligence in Nebraska and Data Science in Nebraska for expanded career pathways.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Nebraska$59,514$132,762
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Machine Learning Programs in Nebraska

Online Programs

0 available in Nebraska

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$19,984/yr$22,204/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in California54$11,834University of California-Berkeley
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Texas31$32,900Texas A & M University-College Station
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in New York44$21,236Cornell University
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Florida20$32,800Full Sail University
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Washington16$37,965University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Massachusetts35$47,636University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Illinois38$35,740University of Illinois Chicago
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Georgia12$9,790Georgia State University

Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska: FAQ

How We Rank Machine Learning Degree Programs

Based on 8 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 8 machine learning degree programs in Nebraska using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for machine learning graduates. Nebraska median salary of $91,560 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

Nebraska salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

Metropolitan Community College Area — Omaha, NE

Hakia Insight: MCC's employer partnerships with Mutual of Omaha and First Data aren't advisory board relationships; they directly shape curriculum around skills these firms actively hire for, creating a 18-month path to jobs that typically require 4-year degrees elsewhere.

At the associate's level, as Nebraska's largest community college serving the Omaha metro area, MCC has built strong partnerships with local tech employers that directly shape its machine learning curriculum. You'll work with real datasets in hands-on labs while instructors maintain active connections to companies like Mutual of Omaha and First Data, creating clear pathways to internships and jobs before you graduate. The program emphasizes Python, data analysis, and supervised learning techniques that employers in the region actually need. Most students either transfer to UNO's computer science program with full junior-year standing or move directly into data analyst and junior machine learning engineer roles at Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Omaha.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Machine Learning — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Machine Learning — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Mutual of Omaha, First Data, Union Pacific Railroad, Creighton University, Omaha area tech startups.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Nebraska–Omaha
  • University of Nebraska–Lincoln
  • Creighton University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Data Analyst
  • Machine Learning Associate
  • Data Engineering Technician
  • Business Intelligence Support Specialist
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • Google Analytics Professional

Location Advantages:

Northeast Community College — Norfolk, NE

Hakia Insight: Northeast CC's agricultural analytics focus isn't a niche—it's a structural advantage in a region where precision farming generates machine learning jobs at higher density than traditional tech hubs, with lower competition for those positions.

At the associate's level, northeast CC's machine learning program reflects the region's needs: you'll learn core data science and Python alongside practical skills in agricultural analytics and small-business data applications. The curriculum connects to Ag Tech initiatives across northeast Nebraska, giving you insider knowledge of how machine learning actually solves farming and rural manufacturing challenges. Faculty maintain ties to regional employers and UNO/UNL computer science departments, smoothing your path whether you're transferring or entering the workforce directly. Most graduates move into data technician or junior analyst roles regionally, or transition seamlessly into upper-level CS programs.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Machine Learning — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Machine Learning — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Regional agricultural firms, Northeast Nebraska manufacturers, Local government, University of Nebraska extension offices.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Nebraska–Lincoln
  • Wayne State College
  • University of Nebraska–Omaha
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Data Technician
  • Junior Data Analyst
  • Agricultural Data Specialist
  • Business Analyst Associate
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
  • Google IT Support Professional

Location Advantages:

Best Bachelor's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

University of Nebraska at Omaha — Omaha, NE

Key Distinction: First AI-focused bachelor's degree offered in Nebraska. Flexible curriculum with interdisciplinary elective coursework from across campus

Hakia Insight: University of Nebraska at Omaha leverages partnerships with TD Ameritrade and Mutual of Omaha to offer machine learning students real-world project experience valued by Nebraska employers.

The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence program at UNO is Nebraska's first AI-focused bachelor's degree, offering core skills development in Data Analytics, Machine Learning, and Natural Language Processing. The curriculum features flexible interdisciplinary elective coursework from across campus, allowing students to combine AI expertise with other fields. Key courses include Concepts in AI, Data Analytics in Python, Fundamentals & Algorithms of Machine Learning, and Principles of AI, covering topics from computer vision and robotics to generative AI and large language models. Graduates earn an average starting salary of $98-103k, entering a field with 74% increased demand over the past 5 years. The program prepares students for roles as AI Solutions Architects, Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, and NLP Engineers through hands-on Python programming and applied artificial intelligence projects.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • R.N.A. Lab (Robotics, Networking and Artificial Intelligence)
  • Data Science Lab
  • Big Data Computing Lab
  • NLPKR Lab (Knowledge Representation and Natural Language Understanding)
  • Deep Learning and Multimedia (DLM) Research Group
  • BRIDGE Lab
  • WINDS Lab
Industry Partners
  • TD Ameritrade (corporate)
  • Mutual of Omaha (corporate)
  • NASA (sponsor)
  • National Science Foundation (sponsor)
  • Department of Homeland Security (sponsor)
  • Samsung (sponsor)
  • Sarpy County Sheriff's Office (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Qiuming Zhu — Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Algorithm Design and Analysis, Pattern Recognition
  • Dr. Xin Zhong — Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Pattern Recognition, Watermarking
  • Dr. Yuliya Lierler — Knowledge Representation, Natural Language Processing, Automated Reasoning
  • Dr. Xiaoyue Cheng — Machine Learning, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Data Visualization
  • Dr. Lochana Palayangoda — Engineering applications of machine learning and statistics
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CAHIIM Accreditation Candidate

Location Advantages: Regional proximity to insurance, healthcare, and financial services companies in OmahaAccess to Midwest tech sector employment opportunities

University of Nebraska-Lincoln — Lincoln, NE

Key Distinction: Nebraska's ML program uniquely positions students at the intersection of computer science and agricultural technology, offering rare applied specializations in precision agriculture and environmental prediction modeling.

Hakia Insight: Nebraska-Lincoln's partnership with Bayer and USDA creates a rare specialization: students can become computer vision experts in crop phenotyping and yield prediction—skills that command premium salaries in agritech but exist nowhere else as a dedicated degree track.

At the bachelor's level, machine learning at Nebraska is deeply integrated into a research-forward environment where computational methods meet real-world agricultural, natural resource, and engineering applications. The program emphasizes applied machine learning through hands-on projects in computer vision, predictive modeling, and optimization—particularly leveraging the institution's land-grant mission to solve problems in precision agriculture and environmental monitoring. Students work closely with faculty on projects that bridge academic theory and industry relevance, with significant opportunities in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering to specialize in deep learning, neural networks, and data-driven decision systems. The university's location in the agricultural heartland creates distinctive industry partnerships with agribusiness firms and environmental agencies seeking graduates who can translate complex ML models into actionable insights. Career outcomes reflect strong placement in tech roles and domain-specific positions where ML expertise commands premium compensation, with many graduates moving into roles at data-forward companies and research institutions focused on sustainability and resource optimization.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Laboratory for Advanced Computational Research and Education (ACRe)
  • Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems (NIMUS) Laboratory
Industry Partners
  • Monsanto (now Bayer Crop Science) (corporate)
  • Union Pacific Railroad (corporate)
  • US Department of Agriculture (government)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Google, Meta, Microsoft, Bayer, Union Pacific, Cerner Corporation.

Notable Faculty
  • Ashok Samal — Computer vision, machine learning for agricultural imaging and environmental monitoring
  • Stephen Scott — Machine learning, ensemble methods, neural networks
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (BS in Computer Science)

Location Advantages: Access to agricultural industry innovation centers and agribusiness headquarters in the MidwestPartnership opportunities with USDA research facilitiesProximity to agricultural technology startups and precision farming companies

Hastings College — Hastings, NE

Hakia Insight: Hastings College's scale (residential liberal arts) means ML capstones involve solving real local business problems rather than toy datasets, giving students portfolio work grounded in actual market constraints.

At the bachelor's level, at Hastings College, machine learning education emerges from the institution's strength in computer science and mathematics, scaled appropriately for a residential liberal arts environment that prioritizes direct faculty engagement and integrated learning. Rather than siloing machine learning into a specialized program, Hastings weaves machine learning concepts throughout its computer science curriculum—from algorithms and data structures courses that build foundational intuition through to upper-level electives in neural networks and applied machine learning. This distributed approach ensures even students not specializing in machine learning gain literacy with these tools, while focused students can construct a coherent sequence of courses and projects. Faculty regularly incorporate machine learning into research activities and independent study arrangements, enabling students to go deep on topics matching their interests—perhaps computer vision applied to agricultural imagery, natural language processing for literary analysis, or optimization techniques in logistics. The Nebraska location and the college's regional connections have created partnerships with local businesses and institutions exploring how machine learning can enhance their operations, giving students authentic problems to solve. Undergraduate research opportunities and senior capstone projects provide crucial hands-on experience; many students complete applications significant enough to present at conferences or publish alongside faculty advisors. Graduates have moved into graduate programs at major research universities as well as directly into industry roles at technology companies and organizations undergoing digital transformation. The small-college advantage means no machine learning course is taught by graduate teaching assistants—faculty teach everything—ensuring consistent mentorship and availability that accelerates learning.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Sachtleben Observatory
Notable Faculty
  • Retired NASA Astronaut Clayton Anderson graduated from Hastings College in physics

Location Advantages:

Concordia University-Nebraska — Seward, NE

Hakia Insight: Concordia-Nebraska's values-centered framework explicitly builds ethical AI into the core curriculum rather than as an elective, a differentiator as hiring managers increasingly screen for candidates who can articulate responsible ML decisions.

At the bachelor's level, machine learning education at Concordia-Nebraska reflects the institution's commitment to values-centered learning alongside technical excellence, creating a distinctive environment where students examine the societal implications of their work as core to their training. The program integrates machine learning within a broader computer science curriculum that emphasizes both algorithmic thinking and ethical reasoning. Coursework covers supervised learning, unsupervised methods, neural networks, and practical applications, with attention to responsible AI principles throughout rather than as an afterthought. Faculty maintain interests in educational technology, business applications, and healthcare analytics, exposing students to diverse domains where machine learning creates real impact. The Nebraska location and Concordia's regional focus create meaningful connections with healthcare systems, agricultural technology companies, and regional businesses exploring machine learning applications. Class sizes remain intentionally small, enabling Socratic teaching approaches and individualized mentorship that help students develop both technical and professional skills. Students typically complete capstone projects addressing real problems for partner organizations, building experience in requirements gathering, stakeholder communication, and iterative development—competencies that distinguish graduates in hiring markets. Career trajectories include positions in healthcare IT, agricultural analytics, business intelligence, and software engineering roles, with many graduates staying in the region or joining distributed teams while contributing to their home communities. The program's emphasis on principled problem-solving appeals to students motivated by positive impact alongside technical mastery.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Machine Learning — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Machine Learning — 4 years, online

Location Advantages:

Creighton University — Omaha, NE

Key Distinction: Service-learning-based capstone project with real-world experience. Interdisciplinary curriculum combining mathematics, journalism, media, and computing

Hakia Insight: Creighton's healthcare-specific capstone (partnered with CHI Omaha and Nebraska Medicine) lets students apply ML to problems where regulatory compliance and patient privacy are baked into the project, preparing them for healthcare ML roles that pay 15-20% premiums over generic data science.

Creighton's Bachelor of Science in Data Science is an interdisciplinary program combining mathematics, journalism, media, and computing with a collaborative, service-learning-based capstone project that provides real-world experience. The 47-credit curriculum balances computational and statistical thinking with mathematical foundations, preparing students to manage, analyze, and model data across the entire data lifecycle. Students can specialize in Advanced Computing (algorithm design, artificial intelligence, social media analytics) or Advanced Mathematics and Statistics (linear algebra, probability theory, mathematical statistics). Graduates pursue careers as data scientists, data engineers, machine learning engineers, or statisticians. The field shows strong job growth, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting 15-33% growth in data science roles over the next two decades. Graduates are also well-prepared for advanced study in data science, machine learning, computer science, or statistics.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Creighton University Center for Health Services Research and Patient Safety
Industry Partners
  • CHI Omaha (Catholic Health Initiatives) (nonprofit)
  • Omaha-area healthcare providers (nonprofit)
Notable Faculty
  • Yong Wang — Machine learning, data mining, healthcare informatics
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (BS in Computer Science)

Location Advantages: Omaha is a major healthcare and insurance hub (Mutual of Omaha, Nebraska Medicine, CHI Health)Access to healthcare industry partnerships through affiliated hospital systemsStrong pipeline to local health tech and medtech employers

Doane University — Crete, NE

Key Distinction: Mandatory internship requirement. Senior capstone project with independent research

Hakia Insight: Doane's mandatory internship requirement with employers like Hudl and Don't Panic Labs means students graduate with paid work experience already on their resume—companies rarely hire undergrads into full-time roles without it anyway.

Doane's Computing bachelor's program offers three high-demand emphasis areas: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Software Engineering. The curriculum integrates hands-on learning with a liberal arts foundation, developing both technical and essential non-technical competencies valued by employers. All majors complete a mandatory internship for real-world experience and a senior capstone project for independent research. Students gain access to unique resources including a VR lab and Doane's supercomputer 'Onyx' for research in machine learning, neural networks, genetic algorithms, and computer vision. The program offers exceptional flexibility, encouraging double majors or minors in engineering, data analytics, graphic design, or business. Graduates enjoy strong placement at notable employers including IBM, Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, and the Minnesota Vikings. Special opportunities include undergraduate research with faculty mentorship, academic programming competitions, mentorships with computing alumni, and work-study with campus IT professionals. The Exceptional Student Curriculum provides advanced coursework through Microsoft Professional Programs, while Computing with Honors offers intensive research experiences with potential summer stipends.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computing — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Computing in the Liberal Arts
  • VR Lab
  • Doane Engineering Idea Lab
Industry Partners
  • Don't Panic Labs (employer)
  • Boys Town (employer)
  • Fiserv (employer)
  • Hudl (employer)
  • IBM (employer)
  • Lockheed Martin (employer)
  • Microsoft (employer)
  • Minnesota Vikings (employer)
  • Nelnet (employer)
  • Sandhills Publishing (employer)
  • Crete Carrier (employer)
  • CS3 Marketing (employer)
  • Firespring (employer)
  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (employer)
  • University of Georgia Bioinformatics Department (employer)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: IBM, Microsoft.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Mark Meysenburg — Computing and high-performance computing
  • Dr. Alec Engebretson — Computing
  • Dr. Cale Stolle — Engineering
  • Dr. Joel TerMaat — Engineering
  • Dr. Ather Mahmood — Physics and Engineering
  • Dr. Navid Changizi — Engineering
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET

Location Advantages: Located near Lincoln, NebraskaAccess to Nebraska's agricultural and technology sectors

Best Master's Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

University of Nebraska at Omaha — Omaha, NE

Key Distinction: Machine Learning concentration available online. Both traditional and online delivery modes

Hakia Insight: UNO's online ML concentration packaged within a CS master's lets working professionals in Omaha's insurance and finance sectors take classes asynchronously while staying in roles that directly apply course concepts, compressing the typical part-time student time-to-degree.

University of Nebraska at Omaha's Master of Science in Computer Science with a Machine Learning concentration is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in AI and machine learning. The program offers both traditional and online delivery modes, allowing flexibility for part-time study. Students can pursue either a thesis or coursework track. Graduate assistantship opportunities are available. The program includes embedded certificate options in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Career outcomes position graduates for roles such as AI/Machine Learning Engineer, Senior Software Engineer, and Enterprise Architect, with significant salary advancement potential over bachelor's degree holders. The program emphasizes industry-relevant skills through comprehensive coursework in machine learning methodologies, preparing professionals for immediate application in competitive tech markets.

Programs Offered
  • Computer Science, Master of Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • R.N.A. Lab (Robotics, Networking and Artificial Intelligence)
  • Data Science Lab
  • Big Data Computing Lab
  • NLPKR Lab (Knowledge Representation and Natural Language Understanding)
  • Deep Learning and Multimedia (DLM) Research Group
  • BRIDGE Lab
  • WINDS Lab
Industry Partners
  • TD Ameritrade (corporate)
  • Mutual of Omaha (corporate)
  • NASA (sponsor)
  • National Science Foundation (sponsor)
  • Department of Homeland Security (sponsor)
  • Samsung (sponsor)
  • Sarpy County Sheriff's Office (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Qiuming Zhu — Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Algorithm Design and Analysis, Pattern Recognition
  • Dr. Xin Zhong — Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Pattern Recognition, Watermarking
  • Dr. Yuliya Lierler — Knowledge Representation, Natural Language Processing, Automated Reasoning
  • Dr. Xiaoyue Cheng — Machine Learning, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Data Visualization
  • Dr. Lochana Palayangoda — Engineering applications of machine learning and statistics
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CAHIIM Accreditation Candidate

Location Advantages: Regional proximity to insurance, healthcare, and financial services companies in OmahaAccess to Midwest tech sector employment opportunities

University of Nebraska-Lincoln — Lincoln, NE

Key Distinction: Nebraska's ML program uniquely positions students at the intersection of computer science and agricultural technology, offering rare applied specializations in precision agriculture and environmental prediction modeling.

Hakia Insight: Nebraska's partnership with Bayer Crop Science and USDA research facilities means master's students don't just study ML theory—they apply it to precision agriculture problems that directly shape how millions of acres are farmed, giving graduates rare domain expertise that tech companies increasingly need.

At the master's level, machine learning at Nebraska is deeply integrated into a research-forward environment where computational methods meet real-world agricultural, natural resource, and engineering applications. The program emphasizes applied machine learning through hands-on projects in computer vision, predictive modeling, and optimization—particularly leveraging the institution's land-grant mission to solve problems in precision agriculture and environmental monitoring. Students work closely with faculty on projects that bridge academic theory and industry relevance, with significant opportunities in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering to specialize in deep learning, neural networks, and data-driven decision systems. The university's location in the agricultural heartland creates distinctive industry partnerships with agribusiness firms and environmental agencies seeking graduates who can translate complex ML models into actionable insights. Career outcomes reflect strong placement in tech roles and domain-specific positions where ML expertise commands premium compensation, with many graduates moving into roles at data-forward companies and research institutions focused on sustainability and resource optimization.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Machine Learning — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Laboratory for Advanced Computational Research and Education (ACRe)
  • Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems (NIMUS) Laboratory
Industry Partners
  • Monsanto (now Bayer Crop Science) (corporate)
  • Union Pacific Railroad (corporate)
  • US Department of Agriculture (government)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Google, Meta, Microsoft, Bayer, Union Pacific, Cerner Corporation.

Notable Faculty
  • Ashok Samal — Computer vision, machine learning for agricultural imaging and environmental monitoring
  • Stephen Scott — Machine learning, ensemble methods, neural networks
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (BS in Computer Science)

Location Advantages: Access to agricultural industry innovation centers and agribusiness headquarters in the MidwestPartnership opportunities with USDA research facilitiesProximity to agricultural technology startups and precision farming companies

Best Doctoral Machine Learning Degree Programs in Nebraska

University of Nebraska-Lincoln — Lincoln, NE

Key Distinction: Access to Holland Computing Center with 121 TFlops computation rate and 7 petabytes storage. State-of-the-art research facilities including UAV testbeds and city-wide gigabit wireless network testbed

Hakia Insight: The Holland Computing Center's 7 petabytes of storage and UAV testbeds transform the PhD from a theoretical credential into a platform for building production-scale systems; doctoral students routinely deploy models across real agricultural infrastructure, not simulations.

The PhD in Computer Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers comprehensive doctoral training across three major research areas: Informatics and Algorithmics Foundations (including machine learning, AI, computer vision, data mining), Software Engineering, and Systems and Networking. Students gain access to advanced computing infrastructure including the Holland Computing Center with 121 TFlops computation rate and 7 petabytes of storage, plus specialized facilities like UAV testbeds and city-wide wireless network testbed. The program emphasizes both research depth and teaching skill development. Faculty expertise spans machine learning (Scott, Soh, Tran, Yao), AI for social good (Chan), safe AI (Tran), and applied machine learning (Sharif). Admission requires three letters of recommendation, personal statement with research interests and potential advisor names, and CV/resume. GRE is not required. Application deadlines are December 1 for Fall (financial consideration) or March 1 (otherwise). The program offers opportunities for undergraduate instruction support and active participation in department research programs, preparing graduates for scientific discovery and engineering innovation careers.

Programs Offered
  • Computer Science (PHD) — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Laboratory for Advanced Computational Research and Education (ACRe)
  • Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems (NIMUS) Laboratory
Industry Partners
  • Monsanto (now Bayer Crop Science) (corporate)
  • Union Pacific Railroad (corporate)
  • US Department of Agriculture (government)
Notable Faculty
  • Ashok Samal — Computer vision, machine learning for agricultural imaging and environmental monitoring
  • Stephen Scott — Machine learning, ensemble methods, neural networks
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (BS in Computer Science)

Location Advantages: Access to agricultural industry innovation centers and agribusiness headquarters in the MidwestPartnership opportunities with USDA research facilitiesProximity to agricultural technology startups and precision farming companies

University of Nebraska at Omaha — Omaha, NE

Key Distinction: UNO's machine learning program stands out for its applied, industry-connected curriculum delivered with strong faculty mentorship in an affordable, accessible setting that prioritizes working professionals and regional talent pipeline development.

Hakia Insight: UNO's partnerships with TD Ameritrade and Mutual of Omaha create a rare advantage for doctoral students: embedded industry mentorship that shapes dissertation work toward problems companies actively fund, resulting in direct post-graduation employment pathways rather than traditional job searches.

At the doctoral level, UNO's machine learning program sits within one of the region's most active computer science communities, with particular strength in the intersection of data science, cybersecurity, and intelligent systems. The program balances theoretical foundations with extensive hands-on laboratory work, preparing students for both industry positions and research-track careers. A defining feature is UNO's commitment to machine learning applications in real-world domains: cybersecurity threat detection, healthcare informatics, smart manufacturing, and environmental modeling. Students access modern computing infrastructure and work alongside faculty who maintain active research agendas, often involving students in publishable projects. The curriculum progresses from foundational algorithms and statistical learning through advanced topics in deep learning, reinforcement learning, and large-scale distributed systems. UNO benefits from its location in Omaha, a Midwest tech hub increasingly attracting major tech investments, creating robust internship and recruiting pipelines with companies like TD Ameritrade, Mutual of Omaha, ConAgra, and emerging startups. The undergraduate computer science program feeds naturally into graduate machine learning pathways, with opportunities for accelerated BS-to-MS tracks. Faculty expertise spans machine learning theory, computer vision, natural language processing, and applied AI systems. Capstone projects frequently partner with regional organizations, giving students portfolio-building experience with real organizational data and challenges. Graduates typically move into machine learning engineer, data scientist, or research scientist roles at companies across finance, insurance, healthcare, and tech sectors.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Machine Learning — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • R.N.A. Lab (Robotics, Networking and Artificial Intelligence)
  • Data Science Lab
  • Big Data Computing Lab
  • NLPKR Lab (Knowledge Representation and Natural Language Understanding)
  • Deep Learning and Multimedia (DLM) Research Group
  • BRIDGE Lab
  • WINDS Lab
Industry Partners
  • TD Ameritrade (corporate)
  • Mutual of Omaha (corporate)
  • NASA (sponsor)
  • National Science Foundation (sponsor)
  • Department of Homeland Security (sponsor)
  • Samsung (sponsor)
  • Sarpy County Sheriff's Office (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Qiuming Zhu — Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Algorithm Design and Analysis, Pattern Recognition
  • Dr. Xin Zhong — Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Pattern Recognition, Watermarking
  • Dr. Yuliya Lierler — Knowledge Representation, Natural Language Processing, Automated Reasoning
  • Dr. Xiaoyue Cheng — Machine Learning, Data Mining, Statistical Modeling, Data Visualization
  • Dr. Lochana Palayangoda — Engineering applications of machine learning and statistics
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CAHIIM Accreditation Candidate

Location Advantages: Regional proximity to insurance, healthcare, and financial services companies in OmahaAccess to Midwest tech sector employment opportunities