Creighton University proudly calls Omaha, Nebraska, home, positioning itself as a cornerstone of higher education in the Midwest. Nestled at 2500 California Plaza, this urban campus spans approximately 132 acres just northwest of downtown Omaha, offering students an ideal blend of academic rigor and city vibrancy. Founded in 1878 by the Society of Jesus, Creighton has grown into a nationally recognized private research university with a total enrollment exceeding 8,800 students. Its prime location along the Missouri River provides easy access to cultural landmarks, professional opportunities, and a thriving community, making it a top choice for those seeking a Jesuit education grounded in service and excellence.
The university's setting in Omaha—a city consistently ranked among the best places to live and work—enhances the student experience. With nearly 80% of undergraduates hailing from outside Nebraska, Creighton attracts a diverse cohort eager to engage with the region's economic powerhouse. Omaha's low cost of living, robust job market featuring Fortune 500 companies like Berkshire Hathaway and Union Pacific, and array of internships make it particularly appealing for career-focused learners.
📍 Pinpointing Creighton University's Omaha Campus
The main Creighton University location is precisely at 2500 California Plaza, Omaha, NE 68178, in the North Downtown neighborhood. This strategic spot places the campus minutes from the historic Old Market district, CHI Health Center arena, and the Henry Doorly Zoo, one of the world's top zoos. The urban environment fosters walkability, with shuttle services and bike paths connecting students to off-campus amenities.
Creighton's Omaha campus features iconic structures like St. John's Church, the centerpiece of the University Mall, and the modern Lied Education Center for the Arts. The 132-acre grounds include green spaces, athletic fields, and state-of-the-art research facilities, creating a self-contained yet connected community. Regional extensions include a Health Sciences Campus in Phoenix, Arizona, opened in 2021, and sites in the Dominican Republic, but Omaha remains the flagship hub.
Historical Roots: From Creighton College to Modern Powerhouse
Creighton University's journey began in 1878 when Mary Lucretia Creighton endowed the institution in memory of her husband, Edward Creighton, a prominent Omaha businessman who helped build the transcontinental railroad. Initially Creighton College, it started with 120 students under Jesuit guidance. Key milestones include the 1885 construction of the Creighton Observatory, admission of women in 1913, and separation from Creighton Preparatory School in 1958.
Today, as an R2-designated doctoral university with high research activity, Creighton boasts an endowment of $866.6 million. Its Jesuit heritage emphasizes cura personalis—care for the whole person—infusing education with ethics, service, and global awareness. This foundation has propelled Creighton to educate over 68,000 alumni across 93 countries.
Unpacking the Advantages of Studying in Omaha
Omaha's appeal lies in its balance of affordability and opportunity. The city's cost of living is 10-15% below the national average, allowing students to thrive without excessive financial strain. Housing near campus averages $800-1,200 monthly for off-campus options, while on-campus residences start lower.
The job market shines, with Omaha hosting 28 Fortune 500 headquarters. Creighton leverages this through partnerships yielding high internship placement—83% of students participate before graduation. Graduates enjoy a 98% outcomes rate within six months, with median salaries around $63,000 six years post-graduation. Industries like finance, healthcare, and logistics offer direct pipelines, enhanced by Creighton's Heider College of Business and health professions programs.
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- Proximity to major employers for paid internships and networking.
- Low unemployment rate below national averages.
- Vibrant young professional scene with events and housing tailored for millennials.
Campus Facilities and Housing: Comfort Meets Convenience
Creighton's housing options cater to 3,000+ undergraduates in nine residence halls and apartments. Freshmen typically reside in traditional halls like Kiewit or Swanson, featuring suite-style rooms with lounges and study areas. Upperclassmen opt for apartments like Garcia or Harper, offering kitchens and private baths.
Facilities abound: the Harper Center for dining and events, D.J. Sokol Arena for athletics, and the Werner and Elaine Diederich Health Sciences Library. Wellness centers, fitness gyms, and the Schlegel Center for Service and Justice support holistic development. Over 300 student organizations, from the Creighton Students Union to cultural clubs, ensure engagement.
| Residence Hall | Style | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Kiewit Hall | Suites | Study lounges, kitchens |
| Swanson Hall | Traditional | Honors floor option |
| Garcia Apartments | Private units | Full kitchens, laundry |
Academic Excellence and Program Highlights
With a 11:1 student-faculty ratio and 43% of classes under 20 students, Creighton delivers personalized education across nine colleges and schools. Standouts include the School of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy & Health Professions, and Heider College of Business. The College of Arts & Sciences anchors liberal arts, while law and graduate programs round out offerings.
Popular majors: Business (28% of grads), Biological Sciences (16%), Nursing, and Social Sciences. Tuition is $50,960 annually, offset by generous aid—99% receive support, averaging $37,239 packages. Four-year graduation rate: 74%.U.S. News & World Report details highlight strong outcomes in health sciences.
Student Life: Community, Service, and Bluejays Pride
Creighton fosters Magis—a drive to excel—through 200+ clubs, Greek life (7 frats, 9 sororities), and intramurals. Athletics thrive in Big East Conference, with basketball drawing national attention at CHI Health Center. Diversity: 69% White, 10% Hispanic, 8% Asian; 56% female.
Service is core—students log thousands of hours annually via immersion trips and local outreach. Dining offers 20+ venues with healthy, sustainable options. Safety is prioritized with 24/7 security and alerts.
Rankings and Recognition: A Top-Tier Institution
Creighton ranks #117 among National Universities (U.S. News 2026), #39 in Undergraduate Teaching. Princeton Review lists it among Best 391 Colleges, #11 for Community Service. Health programs lead nationally; business MBAs excel online (#38 overall).
Recent feats: Largest freshman class (1,250) in 2029; Goldwater Scholars; $100M+ donations for expansions like Fly Together initiative.Official rankings page showcases consistent excellence.
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Why Omaha Elevates the Creighton Experience
Omaha's Midwest charm—parks, riverside trails, festivals—complements academics. Proximity to Eppley Airfield eases travel; public transit and rideshares abound. Economic stability supports post-grad retention, with 30% alumni staying local.
- Access to healthcare hubs like CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center.
- Cultural gems: Joslyn Art Museum, Lauritzen Gardens.
- Seasonal events: College World Series, Oktoberfest.
Future Outlook: Growth and Innovation at Creighton
Creighton invests heavily: $300M Fly Together project expands east campus facilities. AI integration in education, research surges (e.g., Goldwater Scholar in AI). Phoenix expansion targets health professions growth.
For prospective students, Creighton's Omaha location promises not just a degree, but transformative growth. Explore majors, visit virtually, or connect with admissions to soar with the Bluejays.
Whether pursuing medicine, business, or arts, Creighton's position in dynamic Omaha equips graduates for impactful careers worldwide.
