Idaho Colleges: Top Schools to Get a Quality Education
Explore the affordable tuition rates and world-class academic programs to find the best colleges in Idaho that meet your needs.
- By: The College Compass Team
Heading off to college can be a daunting and uncertain experience, but what if you could find the right school that fits your individual needs and goals?
Idaho is full of opportunities for higher education; just waiting for curious minds like yours.
This state has a wide range of colleges and universities covering all fields of study, which offer exceptional undergraduate and graduate programs and can be found in both rural and urban areas.
With such a wide selection available, though – how do you find the perfect fit school?
Keep reading as we break down some of the top-rated schools in Idaho – perfect if you’re searching for an incredible adventure with unbeatable academics.
Types of Colleges in Idaho
Are you torn between attending a large public university or a small private college?
While the selection may seem slim at first, there are actually dozens of different types of colleges and universities available throughout the state.
Various options are available for all types of students, ranging from prestigious universities with notable doctoral programs to community colleges offering two-year programs.
Public Colleges and Universities in Idaho
Idaho has a strong network of public colleges and universities, offering you affordable options for higher education.
These institutions are committed to providing quality education, research, and community outreach programs.
No. of colleges: 5
General admissions requirements: transcripts or proof of high school completion (GED), as well as SAT or ACT scores;
Private Colleges and Universities in Idaho
Private colleges in Idaho are typically smaller than public institutions and offer a more personalized approach to education.
They often focus strongly on undergraduate education and provide various academic programs, including liberal arts, business, and healthcare.
No. of colleges: 6
General admissions requirements: a minimum GPA requirement and SAT or ACT scores;
Community and Technical Colleges in Idaho
On the other hand, community colleges in Idaho offer accessible and affordable higher education options for students seeking to gain new skills or earn a degree.
They typically offer two-year associate degree programs and technical and vocational training programs.
Community colleges also provide a pathway for students to transfer to four-year universities.
No. of colleges: 6
General admissions requirements: college admission application, high school transcripts or GED scores, placement tests;
Note: Every college has different admissions requirements, so it is important to check the specific requirements for each one.
Popular Colleges in Idaho
Choosing the perfect college in Idaho among the numerous amazing ones can be challenging.
To simplify your decision-making process, we have curated a list of popular Idaho colleges offering students a rich college experience.
Our blog post covers everything, from acceptance and graduation rates to course offerings, to provide detailed information about each college.
Just read on to explore more!
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID
At the University of Idaho, you can select from more than 170 academic programs, including highly-ranked agriculture and engineering courses. You will be taught by eminent faculty and receive an excellent education.
Moreover, you can participate in over 200 student organizations, watch the Vandals play in sporting events, or explore the beautiful Palouse region of Idaho, making your college experience unique and enriching.
Fun fact – It is one of the few universities in the country to have an active nuclear research reactor on campus!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$13,964
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Psychology
• Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
• Mechanical Engineering
• Marketing
• Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Rexburg, ID
Brigham Young University – Idaho (BYU-I) is not just a place to study but also to live and experience adventures.
The academic programs are structured to provide students with a holistic education, with faith incorporated into every aspect of learning.
Whether exploring the nearby Yellowstone National Park, participating in service projects, or attending the weekly campus devotionals, there is never a dull moment at BYU-I.
Fun fact – is its unique Pathway program, which endeavors to create an affordable educational experience for potential students.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$6,698
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, not for profit
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Associate's and Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
• Public Health
College of Idaho
Caldwell, ID
The College of Idaho ( C of I ) is a private liberal arts institution offering over 40 academic programs and nearly 200 courses.
On campus, you can enjoy small class sizes and individualized attention while participating in various fun events, such as concerts by nationally recognized performers, theatrical productions, student activities fairs, and unique lectures by renowned speakers.
Additionally, there is an abundance of unique attractions, including hiking trails and natural landmarks; plus, C of I is home to the oldest student-run newspaper in the state, The Coyote.
So, whatever you’re looking for, the College of Idaho sure has it.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$21,412
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, not for profit
Enrollment
Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Bachelor's and Master's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Psychology
• Biology
• History
Northwest Nazarene University
Nampa, ID
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is a private Christian liberal arts university with over 60 undergraduate majors and nearly 20 graduate programs focusing on critical thinking, research, problem-solving, and communication.
Campus life at NNU is lively and vibrant, with a variety of clubs and organizations, intramurals, NCAA Division II athletics, and numerous social events.
There are also weekly chapel services that foster spiritual growth and development.
Academically, you can expect a challenging environment that cultivates knowledge and skills for lifelong learning.
Courses range from business administration to psychology to education, and you can attend study-abroad programs in countries such as Ireland and Peru.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$21,647
Duration
4 Years
Type
Private, not for profit
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
• Engineering
Boise State University
Boise, ID
Boise State University is an incredible public university located in Boise, Idaho – one of the largest universities in the state.
Offering a wide range of academic programs such as engineering, computer science, music education, and theater performance, Boise State provides you with plenty of options to suit your interests and passions.
On campus, there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as Albertsons Stadium, Taco Bell Arena, and the Caldwell Fine Arts Center, not to mention the fun special events like Homecoming, WinterFest, and Rocky Mountain Showdown.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$16,153
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Less Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
• Communication and Media Studies
• Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences
• Business/Commerce
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
Lewis - Clark State College
Lewiston, ID
Lewis-Clark State College is a public, four-year institution in Lewiston, Idaho, founded in 1893.
It offers more than 80 academic programs, including bachelor’s and associate’s degrees and certificates of completion.
Campus life is vibrant, with over 50 student organizations that offer opportunities to get involved and explore interests outside the classroom.
Special events throughout the year include Science and Engineering Day, which brings together students from across the region, ArtWalk Lewiston-Clarkston, showcasing local art, and the annual Lewis-Clark State College Homecoming.
With so much to do, you will always find something that interests you at Lewis-Clark State College!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$10,775
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Required
Graduation Rate
41%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, and Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Teacher Education and Professional Development
• Health and Physical Education/ Fitness
Idaho State University
Pocatello, ID
Idaho State University (ISU), located in Pocatello, is a vibrant learning community of over 12,000 students that was founded in 1901.
Each year Homecoming brings the entire ISU community together to celebrate Bengal pride, while the diverse campus features a theater, library, student union building, recreation center, and eight residence halls.
In addition to providing an intellectually stimulating environment and excellent support services for students and faculty alike, ISU also boasts of being one of the most affordable universities in the nation – making it an ideal place to learn, grow and explore!
Avg. Tuition Cost
$17,410
Duration
4 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
45%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
• Psychology
College of Southern Idaho
Twin Falls, ID
The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) is a comprehensive community college located in Twin Falls, Idaho, renowned for its academic excellence and diverse student body.
It offers over 40 associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas, emphasizing hands-on learning and preparing you for success in the workplace or when transferring to four-year institutions.
Fun facts about CSI include that the university’s dance team has won numerous awards, it has a thriving student farm, and its Outdoor Adventure Program offers kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking.
To further showcase its culture, the college hosts art shows, lectures, cultural events, and an annual Fall Festival featuring local music, food, art, and entertainment.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$5,188
Duration
2 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
27%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate, Associate's, and Bachelor's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences
College of Eastern Idaho
Idaho Falls, ID
The College of Eastern Idaho is an accredited college located in Idaho Falls offering associate degrees, certificates, and career-technical programs.
Academic programs include over 50 areas of study, with classes offered both online and onsite.
Fun facts about this college are that it has a student-run newspaper and radio station, as well as an up-and-coming esports team.
The college also offers special events such as guest speakers, movie nights, concerts, cultural events, and more.
Avg. Tuition Cost
$7,627
Duration
2 Years
Type
Public
Enrollment
Non-Selective
SAT
Not Required
Graduation Rate
34%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Classes
Online, On-campus & Hybrid
Types Of Degrees
Certificate and Associate's
Popular Degrees & Majors
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing
• Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing, and Nursing Assistants
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
• Dental Support Services and Allied Professions
Disclaimer:
All of the data about acceptance rates, graduation rates, tuition costs, and other relevant details for the list of popular colleges in Kansas mentioned above is sourced from CollegeScoreCard by the U.S. Department of Education and each college’s respective official website.
Please use the information and data provided only as a general guideline and verify it before making decisions based on it.
Accreditation for Colleges and in Idaho
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) is the regional accrediting agency responsible for accrediting institutions in Idaho.
Some institutions may also have program-specific accreditation from specialized accrediting bodies.
For example, the College of Business and Economics at Boise State University is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Accreditation status can be checked on the website of the respective colleges and universities or on the NWCCU website to verify if an institution is currently accredited or not.
Tips for Students when Choosing a College in Idaho
- Consider visiting the campuses in person or virtually to get a sense of the campus environment and facilities.
- Talk to current students, alumni, and faculty members to get a better understanding of the college experience and academic programs.
- Look into financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help with the cost of tuition and living expenses:
– The Opportunity Scholarship awards eligible applicants up to $3,500 per academic year and is renewable for up to four years. This scholarship is available to Idaho residents who are high school seniors or GED graduates planning to attend an Idaho college or university. - Research and compare colleges based on factors such as location, size, academic programs, cost, and campus culture.
- Consider the college’s resources for academic support and career development.
Why study in Idaho?
As a student at one of Idaho’s four-year universities or community colleges, there are plenty of opportunities to engage in unique activities that only exist in this beautiful state.
Challenging classes with inspiring faculty members provide an interactive learning environment to help you grow mentally and academically.
And when class is over for the day, you can explore some of America’s great outdoors – hiking through ancient forests, rafting down roaring rivers, or skiing on some world-renowned mountain slopes – all without having to drive very far!
Additionally, Idaho’s reasonable cost of living and affordable tuition rates make it a cost-effective choice for students pursuing higher education.
Number of Students & Demographics
122.997 students enrolled, and 54.5% of full-time students are female
Popular Student Areas
Boise, Moscow, and Pocatello
Avg. Tuition Cost
$13,430
*Based on colleges listed above
Career Outlook for Students in Idaho
There are many job opportunities for students in Idaho, especially in growing industries like healthcare, technology, agriculture, and tourism.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment rate in Idaho was 2.8% as of March 2022, which is lower than the national unemployment rate of 3.9%.
This is good news for Idahoans, as it suggests a strong job market and relatively low competition for employment opportunities.
In terms of median wages, the BLS reports that the median hourly wage in Idaho was $19.12 as of May 2021, which is slightly lower than the national median hourly wage of $21.69.
Popular career paths for Students in Idaho:
- Registered Nurse
- Software Developer
- Elementary School Teacher
- Electrician
- Agricultural and Food Scientists
- Financial Analyst
FAQ about Colleges in Idaho
The most selective colleges in Idaho are the College of Idaho and the University of Idaho.
Some of the more accessible schools in Idaho are Lewis – Clark State College and Idaho State University ( with a 100% acceptance rate ).
Boise State University (26.162 students) and Brigham Young University are (22.471 students) the largest colleges in Idaho by enrollment.
Several colleges in Idaho offer free or reduced tuition programs for senior citizens.
Here are a few: Boise State University, Idaho State University, and Lewis-Clark State College.
*It’s important to note that each institution may have specific requirements and limitations for its senior citizen tuition programs. It’s recommended to check with the individual schools for more information on their policies and application processes.
Yes, there are research opportunities available to students at Idaho colleges and universities.
Many of the larger schools, such as Boise State University and the University of Idaho, have active research programs in a wide range of fields, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as social sciences, humanities, and the arts.
To get involved in research, students can: look for opportunities through their college or university’s research office or department, network with faculty members in their field of interest, participate in summer research programs, or explore external research opportunities.
Some examples of extracurricular activities available at Idaho colleges and universities include Sports and Athletics, Clubs and Organizations, Community Service and Volunteering, and Music, Theater, and Fine Arts.
To get involved in these activities, you can attend a student activities fair, contact the club or organization directly to find out more about how to get involved, participate in sports tryouts or other athletic events to join a team, or check the school’s website or bulletin board for upcoming events and activities.
Summary
Now that you have a better understanding of the colleges in Idaho, it should allow you to make an informed decision when weighing your college options.
Regardless of whether you decide to stay close to home or venture out further, you can rest assured that Idaho has many excellent institutions that can serve as great options for higher education.
What’s more, Idaho’s colleges and universities offer a unique charm and beauty that is unparalleled.
Every city throughout the state contains its little paradise, so take advantage of it and explore all that Idaho offers.
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