Hastings College logo

Hastings College

Hastings, NE Private ยท Suburban www.hastings.edu
Accept Rate
69.87%
Grad Rate
53.9%
Enrollment
957
Tuition
$36,130
Median Salary
$51,303
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
B
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Hastings College offers a tight-knit, personalized campus experience where students are known by name, not just a number. The atmosphere is supportive and engaging, with a strong sense of Bronco pride woven into daily life. It feels like a place where you can truly find your community and get involved.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

69.87%
Moderately Selective

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

Highlight your involvement in extracurriculars or leadership roles in your application, as Hastings values well-rounded students. Connect directly with an admissions counselor to discuss your specific interests, as demonstrated interest can be a plus. If you have a passion for the arts or athletics, be sure to submit your portfolio or reach out to coaches early in the process.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Hastings College excels in hands-on learning, particularly within its top-rated programs in Business, Education, and the Visual & Performing Arts. The curriculum is designed around practical experience, with faculty who prioritize mentorship and direct student engagement over large lecture halls. Students have ample opportunities for internships and real-world projects that prepare them for their careers.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
26.6%
Education
13.1%
Visual & Performing Arts
8%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
8%
Multidisciplinary Studies
7.5%
Biology & Biomedical
7%
Social Sciences
6.5%
Psychology
6%
Communications
4.5%
Physical Sciences
3.5%
History
3.5%
Computer Science
2.5%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

53.9%
Graduation Rate
67.8%
Retention Rate
957
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$36,130
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$21,554
After financial aid
Total Cost
$49,051
Cost of attendance/year
28.9%
Receive Pell Grants
63.9%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Hastings

Life in Hastings revolves around the close-knit campus community, with frequent student events, athletic games, and arts performances. When students venture off-campus, they enjoy local coffee shops, parks, and community festivals that define this classic Midwestern town. For bigger city entertainment, Omaha and Lincoln are about a 2-hour drive away.

Local Rent Check

$859 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Hastings
Explore Hastings

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$144,520
$0Est. 4 Years: $144,520

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($51,303):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is considered very safe with a low crime rate and a dedicated campus security team. Hastings is a quiet, friendly suburban town where students generally feel comfortable walking around both on and off campus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
  • โœ“ Strong programs in visual and performing arts with many opportunities to participate.
  • โœ“ Tight-knit community fosters a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • โœ“ Competitive athletics and a high level of school spirit.

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average.
  • โœ— Location is remote; requires a long drive for major city amenities.
  • โœ— Limited diversity compared to larger, urban universities.

Notable Alumni

Warren Buffett
While not a graduate, he attended Hastings College for a period before transferring; he is one of the world's most successful investors and a business magnate.
Jackie Stiles
A basketball legend who set scoring records at Hastings College before a successful professional career in the WNBA and international leagues.
David Brown
An accomplished actor known for his roles in television and film, and a graduate of the Hastings College theatre program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hastings College is particularly well-regarded for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Education, and especially Visual & Performing Arts. The college emphasizes experiential learning, with a hands-on approach that prepares students for their careers through internships and real-world projects. It is also known for its close-knit, supportive community and a strong sense of school spirit, especially around its NCAA Division II athletic programs.

Hastings College has an acceptance rate of approximately 70%, making it moderately selective. This means that while the admissions process is competitive, the college admits a significant portion of its applicants. A strong academic record, solid GPA, and demonstrated interest in the school will improve an applicant's chances of admission.

Campus life at Hastings is active and community-focused, with a wide range of student organizations, athletic events, and arts performances. Being a small school, it's easy to get involved and form close friendships. The residential campus experience is central to student life, with many activities and events planned by the college to foster engagement.

For many students, Hastings College offers a solid return on investment. The net price of $21,554 is significantly lower than the sticker price, and the 10-year median earnings of $51,303 are competitive for a private college of its size. The value is enhanced by the personalized education and strong alumni network, which can be crucial for early career success.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Hastings Public Schools Mary Lanning Healthcare Kearney Regional Airport The Trust Company Midwest Bank
Smart Start Score
55

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Suburban
  • Undergrad 972
  • In-State Tuition $36,130
  • Zip Code 68901

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 48.7% โ™€ 51.3%

The Money Talk

With a net price of $21,554, Hastings College is priced competitively for a private institution, especially when compared to its sticker tuition. The 10-year median earnings of $51,303 suggest a solid return on investment for graduates. For many, the combination of personalized education and financial aid makes it a financially sound choice.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $36,130
Housing (12 mo) $10,308
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $53,638
With avg financial aid:
$21,554/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.