Computer and Information Sciences at University of Nebraska at Omaha

UNO's computer science certificate stands out nationally but tells a more nuanced story within Nebraska. While graduates earn 51% above the national median for this credential—placing them in the 95th percentile—they're actually at the median for Nebraska programs. This suggests that tech wages in Omaha simply run higher than most markets, not that UNO necessarily delivers exceptional outcomes compared to local alternatives.

The financial equation still works well for students. At roughly $20,000 in debt—about double the national median but manageable given the salaries—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.34. They're earning $58,750 right out of the gate and seeing healthy 15% wage growth to $67,000 within four years. Compare this to the $39,000 national median, and the regional wage advantage becomes clear.

For Nebraska families, the question isn't whether this certificate pays off—it clearly does—but whether it's the best option among the six in-state programs. UNO's relatively open admissions (87% acceptance) makes it accessible, but parents should compare closely with other Nebraska computer science certificates to see if similar outcomes are available at lower cost. The certificate format itself is smart: lower debt than a full degree while still tapping into strong regional tech demand.