The University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business enrolled a record 4,534 students across its undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs this fall, a 3.1% increase from last year.
Driven by the college’s largest incoming freshman class, undergraduate enrollment hit an all-time high as first-time freshmen jumped 7.3% to 975 students. This surpassed last year’s record of 909 and reinforced Nebraska Business as a destination for future business leaders.
“This growth reflects our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, personalized student support, and real-world career readiness,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the College of Business. “Our continued momentum at Nebraska Business is fueled by the dedication of our faculty, staff, alumni, business partners and friends. Together, we’re building a dynamic environment where students are empowered to lead, innovate and succeed.”
Several top majors led the increase, including business and law, finance, accounting, economics and management. A new business analytics major that launched this fall also saw strong interest. The college’s broad range of in-demand majors reflects the diverse interests of today’s business students and the evolving needs of the global workforce.
Kara Mack, a senior finance major from Overland Park, Kansas, serves as a student ambassador for the college. She said prospective students and families often cite the welcoming community, strong academic programs and Husker game day traditions as major draws.
“Students are looking for a home away from home that prepares them for the real world of business,” Mack said. “Howard L. Hawks Hall, the home of the College of Business, provides a welcoming, energetic atmosphere, and our freshmen get to start business classes from day one."
She added that peer-to-peer mentoring sets Nebraska Business apart. Students benefit from free tutoring through the Teaching and Learning Center, one-on-one strengths coaching from the Clifton Strengths Institute and individualized career advising through the Business Career Center.
The college’s new undergraduate business core curriculum debuted this fall with Introduction to Business (MNGT 101). The course also integrates peer mentorship, along with corporate engagement and experiential learning. Students team up for the first Business Battle to solve a real-world challenge for MotoAmerica, a premier motorcycle road racing series in North America.
"Through cohort programs like the Nebraska Business Honors Academy, Ameritas Emerging Leaders Academy, Clifton Builders, Entrepreneurship Catalyst and Accelerator and Integrity in Business Leadership, we create tailored experiences for our students to grow as business leaders, innovators and ethical decision-makers,” Farrell said. “These programs offer hands-on learning, mentorship and a strong peer community that help students thrive in college and beyond.”
Undergraduate enrollment also increased among in-state students, with Nebraska residents rising 5.2% to represent 72.2% of the undergraduate population. For many freshmen, including Conner Tyerman, a business and law major from Imperial, Nebraska, staying in-state became an easy choice after visiting campus.
"I immediately knew that Nebraska Business was the place for me, as I could build meaningful connections while pursuing a degree and being involved on campus," Tyerman said. "The willingness of professors, staff and students to be there for me as I started this fall reinforced my love for this university, and I'm so glad to call myself a Husker."
As enrollment grows, so does the college’s long-term impact, Farrell said.
“Huskers launch startups, lead in global companies and strengthen the industries that drive our economy," she said. "Their success reflects the strength of a Nebraska Business education and the lifelong value of a Big Ten business degree.”
