UNK is Powering Nebraska’s Workforce
Nebraska's future depends on a talented workforce, and UNK is helping meet that demand by preparing students for some of the state's most in-demand and rewarding careers. Through our fast-growing programs in Health Sciences, Teacher Education, Business, and other high-priority fields, UNK equips graduates with the skills, experiences, and professional connections employers are seeking. Students gain hands-on learning opportunities that translate directly into career success, making them competitive candidates for high-paying jobs across Nebraska and beyond. Whether improving healthcare outcomes, educating future generations, or driving business innovation, UNK graduates enter the workforce ready to make an impact from day one. The result is a powerful return on investment for students, employers, and the communities they serve.
What are H3 Occupations?
According to the Nebraska Dept. of Labor, H3 occupations are jobs that are High Wage, High Skill and High Demand. In other words, these are high-paying job fields with many openings.
- 71.8%of H3 occupations require a bachelor's degree
- 34,000+Annual job openings in H3 fields in Nebraska
- 0.39Nebraska's worker shortage index - there are only 39 available workers for every 100 open jobs
Source: Nebraska Dept. of Labor
Top H3 occupations in Nebraska requiring a college degree:
| Job Title | Median Salary | Relevant Major |
| Financial Managers | $145K/year | Finance |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $115K/year | Health Care Management |
| Software Developers | $110K/year | Computer Science |
| General and Operations Manager | $100K/year | Business Administration Construction Management |
| Registered Nurse | $80K/year | Pre-Nursing |
| Accountants and Auditors | $75K/year | Accounting |
| Supply Chain Management (supporting the trucking industry through logistics and operations) |
$75K/year | Supply Chain Management |
| School Teachers | $63K/year | Teacher Education |
| Human Resource Specialist | $62K/year | Business Management |
"UNK fosters a culture of professionalism from the moment students arrive on campus. By integrating experiential learning, academic rigor, and meaningful industry connections throughout the student experience, we ensure graduates are prepared to succeed in the workforce from day one."
Examples of programs with job placement at or near 100%
Graduates in these fields often have multiple job offers even before graduation!
Additional Resources and Scholarship Opportunities Tied to Workforce Development
Career Resources at UNK
UNK helps bridge the gap between education and employment. Our annual career fairs bring together students and employers from across Nebraska and beyond, creating valuable opportunities for networking, internships, and career placement.
