University of Nebraska at Omaha

History

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) was established in 1908 as the University of Omaha, a private, coeducational institution. It was founded by the Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Omaha, with the goal of providing higher education opportunities to the residents of Omaha and the surrounding areas. In 1931, the university became a municipal institution, and in 1968, it joined the University of Nebraska system, becoming the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Campus

The UNO campus is located in the heart of Omaha, Nebraska, and spans over 500 acres. The campus is divided into three main areas: Dodge Campus, Scott Campus, and Center Campus. The Dodge Campus is the original campus and houses the majority of academic buildings, administrative offices, and student services. The Scott Campus, located a few miles south of Dodge Campus, is home to the College of Information Science & Technology and the Peter Kiewit Institute. The Center Campus, situated between Dodge and Scott Campuses, includes the Baxter Arena and various athletic facilities.

Dodge Campus

The Dodge Campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the Arts and Sciences Hall, which is the oldest building on campus, and the Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center, a state-of-the-art facility that promotes community partnerships and service learning. The Criss Library, located on Dodge Campus, serves as the main library for the university and offers extensive resources, including digital collections and research support services.

Scott Campus

Scott Campus is known for its focus on technology and innovation. The Peter Kiewit Institute, a collaboration between UNO and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, houses the College of Information Science & Technology and the College of Engineering. The institute provides cutting-edge facilities and resources for students pursuing degrees in computer science, engineering, and related fields. Scott Campus also includes the Scott Technology Center, which offers research and development space for technology companies and startups.

Center Campus

Center Campus is home to the Baxter Arena, a multi-purpose facility that hosts UNO's athletic events, concerts, and community events. The arena is the primary venue for the university's ice hockey, basketball, and volleyball teams. Center Campus also includes the Caniglia Field, a stadium used for soccer and track and field events, and the Sapp Fieldhouse, which hosts various indoor sports and recreational activities.

Academics

UNO offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across its six colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business Administration, the College of Education, the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media, the College of Public Affairs and Community Service, and the College of Information Science & Technology.

College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest college at UNO, offering programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics. The college is known for its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary studies, with numerous research centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge in various fields.

College of Business Administration

The College of Business Administration (CBA) provides a comprehensive business education with programs in accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics. The CBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a prestigious accreditation held by less than 5% of business schools worldwide. The college also offers an Executive MBA program designed for working professionals.

College of Education

The College of Education at UNO is dedicated to preparing future educators, counselors, and educational leaders. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs in teacher education, special education, educational leadership, and counseling. The college is known for its strong partnerships with local schools and community organizations, providing students with extensive field experience and opportunities for professional development.

College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media

The College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media (CFAM) encompasses programs in communication, journalism, broadcasting, art, music, theatre, and creative writing. The college is home to the School of Communication, which offers nationally recognized programs in journalism and public relations. CFAM also includes the School of the Arts, which provides comprehensive training in visual and performing arts.

College of Public Affairs and Community Service

The College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS) focuses on addressing social issues and promoting public service. The college offers programs in public administration, social work, criminology and criminal justice, gerontology, and urban studies. CPACS is known for its commitment to community engagement and applied research, with numerous centers and institutes dedicated to public service and social justice.

College of Information Science & Technology

The College of Information Science & Technology (IS&T) is a leader in the field of information technology education and research. The college offers programs in computer science, information systems, cybersecurity, and bioinformatics. IS&T is home to the Peter Kiewit Institute, which provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources for students and faculty engaged in cutting-edge research and innovation.

Research

UNO is classified as a doctoral research university with high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The university is committed to advancing knowledge through research, scholarship, and creative activity. UNO's research efforts are supported by numerous centers and institutes, including the Center for Research in Human Movement Variability, the Nebraska Business Development Center, and the Center for Public Affairs Research.

Center for Research in Human Movement Variability

The Center for Research in Human Movement Variability (MOVCENTR) is dedicated to understanding the mechanisms of human movement and developing interventions to improve health and performance. The center conducts interdisciplinary research in areas such as biomechanics, motor control, and rehabilitation. MOVCENTR collaborates with various academic departments, healthcare institutions, and industry partners to advance knowledge and improve quality of life.

Nebraska Business Development Center

The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) provides consulting services, training, and resources to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and government agencies. The NBDC helps clients develop business plans, secure financing, and improve operations. The center also conducts applied research in areas such as economic development, business innovation, and workforce development.

Center for Public Affairs Research

The Center for Public Affairs Research (CPAR) conducts research on public policy issues and provides data analysis and technical assistance to government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community groups. CPAR's research focuses on topics such as population demographics, economic development, and public health. The center also produces the annual Nebraska State Data Center report, which provides comprehensive data on the state's population and economy.

Student Life

UNO offers a vibrant and diverse student life experience, with numerous opportunities for involvement in student organizations, athletics, and community service. The university has over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. UNO's Student Government represents the student body and advocates for student interests on campus.

Housing

UNO provides a variety of housing options for students, including traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, and apartment-style living. The university's housing facilities are designed to promote a sense of community and support student success. Housing options include Maverick Village, University Village, and Scott Court, each offering unique amenities and living arrangements.

Athletics

UNO's athletic teams, known as the Mavericks, compete in the NCAA Division I Summit League. The university offers a wide range of varsity sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and ice hockey. The Mavericks' ice hockey team is particularly notable, competing in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) and regularly participating in the NCAA tournament. UNO's athletic facilities include the Baxter Arena, Caniglia Field, and Sapp Fieldhouse.

Community Engagement

Community engagement is a core value at UNO, and the university is committed to fostering partnerships with local organizations and promoting service learning. The Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center serves as a hub for community engagement activities, providing space and resources for collaboration between the university and community partners. UNO's Service Learning Academy integrates community service into academic coursework, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.

Notable Alumni

UNO has a diverse and accomplished group of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Notable alumni include:

Peter F. Kiewit, founder of Kiewit Corporation, one of the largest construction and engineering companies in North America.
Gale Sayers, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back who played for the Chicago Bears.
Chuck Hagel, former U.S. Secretary of Defense and U.S. Senator from Nebraska.
Howard Warren Buffett, philanthropist and son of billionaire investor Warren Buffett.
John Gottschalk, former publisher of the Omaha World-Herald and philanthropist.