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University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Independent Study High School

College—Prep Distance Education Since 1929

About Us

  • Why the University of Nebraska?
  • Accreditation
  • Our Students
  • Our Staff
Why the University of Nebraska?
about


The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is one of the nation's leading teaching colleges. As a land-grant institution chartered in 1869, UNL provides leadership in education and research, benefiting the state of Nebraska and the world.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Independent Study High School became the first university-based high school program, established in 1929 to create additional opportunities for rural students and for those who could not attend a traditional school. Learn more about our history.

Curriculum at the Independent Study High School supports students in the development of skills, attitudes and knowledge that will enable them to be thoughtful and committed citizens, functioning successfully in the endeavors they choose.

Because the Independent Study High School has a global student body, the rigorous curriculum reflects the realization that students come from many different countries, states, ethnic backgrounds and cultures. Instructional materials emphasize a global approach to content and activities, particularly relevant in our world today.

Course Development
Our courses provide students with the opportunity to develop lifelong learning habits, truly offering an individualized study approach that fits the learning styles of many different kinds of students.

The self-paced, independent study distance methodology teaches project management, time management, and self-discipline skills—skills that research has shown are significantly more important to success than IQ, in predicting grades in high school or participation in post-secondary education.

Students in the Independent Study High School program receive:

  • Preparation for college and/or the next stage of life
  • Instruction from certificated teachers
  • An opportunity to learn self-discipline
  • A self-paced program
  • A true high school diploma OR simply credits to transfer to a local school
Accreditation


The UNL Independent Study High School maintains accreditation with the Nebraska Department of Education, the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), and the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (CITA).   

Why is accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures that quality standards are met and administrative policies and procedures are established.

Increased performance
Accreditation focuses on school improvement and enhanced learning for all students.

Transfer of credits
In addition, accreditation eases the transition of students as they transfer credits from one accredited school to another.

Our Students


Impressive students are just one thing that makes the Independent Study High School a great high school to be a part of. Students of all ages and backgrounds have graduated or taken courses from our program.

Some students have particular reasons for choosing our accredited high school, while others simply prefer more flexibility and quality, college-prep coursework from their high school experience.  

Student Success
Students in the Independent Study High School have accomplished some impressive things, both in and outside the “classroom”.

Student achievements:

  • ACT & SAT scores are above the state and national average
  • Graduates have been accepted to exceptional colleges worldwide
  • Olympic performances and other athletic accomplishments
  • Embracing a new culture while living in a foreign country
  • Beginning or growing a career in the performing arts
  • Overcoming personal challenges to accomplish high school goals

Information for:

 ourstudents
Our Staff


The staff at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Independent Study High School works in many different areas to ensure the best experience for our students, schools and proctors.

High School Administration at the University of Nebraska works to ensure that students are receiving the best learning opportunity possible within established guidelines for a distance education program.

Our Customer Service Team helps enroll students and answers general questions about the program.

The Instructional Design and Development Team creates course curriculum and ensures the quality of courses so that students are able to achieve learning outcomes.

Teachers for the Independent Study High School are certificated by the Nebraska Department of Education and all teach in their endorsed subject area. Instructional Service teachers are available by phone and e-mail to answer students’ questions about their courses. Our teachers have over 200 years of accumulated experience working for the Independent Study High School.