Best Colleges in Idaho

Yielding one-third of the potato crop for the nation, it’s unsurprising that most people know Idaho as the potato state. Its official nickname is actually the “Gem State,” referencing the largest unspoiled natural area in the US as well as its long history of producing gemstones. Climate varies wildly depending on region, but colleges in Idaho are largely clustered in the northern and southern regions. All colleges are either public or private not-for-profit, and the oldest institution is the University of Idaho in Moscow, founded in 1889. The most prominent industries in Idaho include food processing, lumber/wood products, chemicals, paper, and mining. Micron Technology, Oracle, and Hewlett-Packard are large presences in this state, where you can also find the Oregon Trail, the Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the Julie Davis Park in Boise.

How Were the Top Schools in Idaho Chosen?

Appily determines “Best Colleges” based on publicly-available information from the US Department of Education. Several factors include, but are not limited to, data about admitted students’ academic calibers, students’ expected career outcomes after graduation, and colleges’ investments toward making their institution accessible to all students.

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University of Idaho

Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho is a 4-year public school in northwest Idaho and the oldest public institution in the state. The U of I hosts 10 colleges granting undergraduate and graduate degrees in over 300 fields of study. In addition to...

“…

The professors are approachable and friendly, and with small class sizes it isn't hard to get in touch with the teacher for help. Also, with campus wide WiFi internet and the library combined, there is easy access to whatever course data you will...

” – Nate from Payette, ID
The College of Idaho

The College of Idaho is a 4-year institution established in Treasure Valley, near the city of Caldwell, and was the state’s first private, liberal arts college. The college offers a unique PEAK curriculum for its undergraduate students, which is...

“…

The College of Idaho has smaller class rooms than the larger schools in this area. I came in with a lower GPA and needed a little more help and have found it here. I am going into my second year with a truly positive and excited attitude. Who...

” – Toni from Nampa, ID
Northwest Nazarene University

Affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, Northwest Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts institution in western Idaho. NNU grants bachelor’s degrees in over 60 academic areas of study. In addition, all students are required to complete a...

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Of course I learned in the classrooms, but I also learned a lot about myself and about others in the dorm, cafeteria, and at campus activities. I had to learn how to properly juggle my study time, relationships, job, cleaning and laundry, and...

” – Jessica from Eagle, ID
Boise State University

Boise State is a Carnegie doctoral research university that is home to more than 26,000 students from every state and more than 60 foreign countries. Our metropolitan campus runs along the banks of the Boise River, just a quick walk from the heart of...

“…

The classes are here are great. The professor's are very friendly and love to help there students. Plus, you live in the City of Trees, Boise is a great little college town, especially during the football season.

” – Joshua from Caldwell, ID
Brigham Young University-Idaho

Affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University-Idaho is a 4-year institution in eastern Idaho and the state’s largest private university. BYU-Idaho is home to six colleges and schools conferring...

“…

The teachers here are amazing and really know their stuff. Because this school is a religion school, you can definitely feel the spirit and it's great because it's a constant thing. The teachers here are great at teaching, telling you what you need...

” – Jillise from Boise, ID
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Lewis-Clark State College is a public, 4-year institution established in Lewiston, Ohio. At the lowest tuition rate of all public, 4-year colleges within the state, LC offers over 130 degree and certificate programs, 9 of which can be completed fully...

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About 2,500 to 3,500 students go here, meaning your professors get to know you individually.

” – Morgan from Meridian, ID
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North Idaho College is a two-year community college based in Coeur d’Alene, ID. NIC offers transfer degrees, professional and technical certifications, and associate degrees. Many students choose to study communications, computer programming, or...

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I learned a lot already as a dual enrolled student and now as a full time current student. So many degrees to choose from and many choices for electives. The teachers here are amazing and most are willing to work with you one on one or help set up...

” – Savannah from Post Falls, ID
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Originally founded by the First Church of Christ, Boise Bible College is a non-denominational Christian college with a focus on training for the ministry. BBC offers 4-year bachelor’s degree programs in Biblical Studies, Christian Ministry, Christian...

Idaho State University

Originally founded as The Academy of Idaho, Idaho State University is a 4-year public research university in southeast Idaho. ISU is home to six colleges conferring degrees in over 250 academic programs of study and offers a Career Path Internship...

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I am a second year at ISU and am a junior. Each semester in college is different but the first few seem to be pretty similar all across the board. I started college in August of 2008. ISU is a great school, the teachers care and there is always...

” – Sarah from Eagle, ID
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New Saint Andrews College is a Christian liberal arts college with a Reformed perspective in western Idaho. New Saint Andrews offers a single bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Culture and every course is founded in a Christian worldview and...

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your very soul will be stretched and molded and right before it breaks it transforms something gloriously beautiful. you learn how to find joy and peace in the midst of intense trials. you truly understand what it is to live harmoniously with those...

” – Elisabeth from Elmwood, WI
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Formerly known as Eastern Idaho Technical College, the College of Eastern Idaho is a 2-year community college in Idaho Falls. CEI is home to three academic divisions conferring degrees and certificates in 18 fields of study. Additionally, CEI is home...

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Easy to understand teachers who are always willing to help

” – Virgil from Idaho Falls, ID
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College of Southern Idaho is a public two-year institution located in Twin Falls, ID. CSI operates several outreach programs around the state, in Boise, Gooding, Hailey, and Burley. Popular majors include licensed practical nurse training, baking and...

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This is a two year college, but all the courses are exactly what you will find at any other University for getting your prerequisites done. I find that all of the instructors are very well qualified for their positions and have earned their...

” – Dave from Boise, ID
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Established in 2007, the College of Western Idaho is a public, 2-year institution with two campus locations in Boise and Nampa and is one of only three community colleges in the state. CWI offers over 60 degree and certificate programs in academic...

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An amazing school, that goal is to have the best academic success for each student. Very affordable and open to anyone who would like to continue with their career.