1. University of Idaho (UI)
Overview of University of Idaho
Location: Moscow, Idaho
Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho (UI) is the state’s oldest public university and a leading research institution. It is known for its strong programs in law, engineering, agriculture, and forestry. UI’s College of Law is highly respected, and the university has a significant impact on research, particularly in the areas of environmental and agricultural sciences. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #170 National Universities
- Number of Students: Approximately 11,000
- Degrees Offered: Over 140 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1240
Extracurricular Activities
- Vandal Athletics (NCAA Division I)
- Outdoor Program (hiking, skiing, rafting)
- ASUI Student Government
- Greek Life
- Engineering Design Competitions
Famous Alumni
- Dirk Kempthorne – Former Governor of Idaho and U.S. Secretary of the Interior
- Kristin Armstrong – Three-time Olympic gold medalist in cycling
- Larry Craig – Former U.S. Senator
- Harmon Killebrew – Hall of Fame MLB player
- Sarah Palin – Former Governor of Alaska (attended but did not graduate)
Top Employers of Graduates
- Micron Technology
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Boeing
- J.R. Simplot Company
- St. Luke’s Health System
2. Boise State University (BSU)
Overview of Boise State University
Location: Boise, Idaho
Founded in 1932, Boise State University (BSU) is a public research university located in Idaho’s capital. Known for its innovation and strong programs in business, nursing, and engineering, BSU is recognized nationally for its commitment to research and student success. It is particularly famous for its iconic blue football field and strong athletic programs, especially in football.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: Approximately 26,000
- Degrees Offered: Over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Average SAT Score: 1030-1240
Extracurricular Activities
- Boise State Broncos Athletics (NCAA Division I)
- Outdoor Adventure Club
- Greek Life
- Student Government
- Engineering and Robotics Clubs
Famous Alumni
- Kellen Moore – Former NFL quarterback and current NFL coach
- George Kennedy – Academy Award-winning actor
- Chris Petersen – Former Boise State football coach
- Elgin Baylor – Hall of Fame NBA player
- Troy Merritt – PGA Tour golfer
Top Employers of Graduates
- Micron Technology
- St. Luke’s Health System
- HP Inc.
- Idaho Power
- Boise Cascade
3. Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-Idaho)
Overview of Brigham Young University-Idaho
Location: Rexburg, Idaho
BYU-Idaho, originally established in 1888 as Ricks College, is a private university affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Known for its values-based education, BYU-Idaho offers a strong liberal arts curriculum with emphasis on personal development and practical skills. It has a large student body enrolled in online and on-campus programs, and its strong programs include business, health, and education.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Regional Colleges West)
- Number of Students: Approximately 44,000 (including online students)
- Degrees Offered: Over 100 undergraduate programs
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Average SAT Score: 990-1220
Extracurricular Activities
- Service and Leadership Clubs
- Student Government
- Intramural Sports
- Dance and Choir Programs
- LDS Student Association
Famous Alumni
- Kim B. Clark – Former Dean of Harvard Business School
- Brandon Sanderson – Bestselling fantasy author
- Dallin H. Oaks – Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- Aaron Paul – Emmy Award-winning actor
- David Archuleta – Singer and “American Idol” finalist
Top Employers of Graduates
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- Melaleuca
- Qualtrics
- Intermountain Healthcare
- Idaho National Laboratory
4. College of Idaho
Overview of College of Idaho
Location: Caldwell, Idaho
Established in 1891, the College of Idaho is a private liberal arts college known for its small class sizes, strong academic programs, and commitment to individualized education. It offers a unique curriculum called the PEAK Program, which allows students to earn a major and three minors across four different academic areas. The college is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the sciences, humanities, and business.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #157 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: Approximately 1,000
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s degrees in over 30 majors and minors
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Average SAT Score: 1080-1280
Extracurricular Activities
- Yotes Athletics (NAIA)
- Outdoor Recreation Programs
- Student Government Association
- Music and Theater Groups
- Model United Nations
Famous Alumni
- Butch Otter – Former Governor of Idaho
- Randy Trautman – College Football Hall of Fame inductee
- Rosalie Sorrels – American folk singer
- Gregory S. Forbes – Weather Channel meteorologist
- Vardis Fisher – Author and historian
Top Employers of Graduates
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Micron Technology
- J.R. Simplot Company
- Boise Cascade
5. Idaho State University (ISU)
Overview of Idaho State University
Location: Pocatello, Idaho
Founded in 1901, Idaho State University (ISU) is a public research university known for its strong programs in health sciences, pharmacy, and engineering. The university plays a crucial role in providing education and training for health professionals in Idaho and beyond. ISU also has a robust research agenda, particularly in the fields of nuclear science and energy research.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #331-440 National Universities
- Number of Students: Approximately 12,000
- Degrees Offered: Over 250 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1190
Extracurricular Activities
- ISU Bengals Athletics (NCAA Division I)
- Health Sciences Clubs
- Student Government Association
- Outdoor Adventure Programs
- Greek Life
Famous Alumni
- Jared Allen – Former NFL player
- Merril Hoge – ESPN sports analyst and former NFL player
- Marilyn Howard – Former Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Alma Bell Wilson – First female Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice
- Steve Antone – Former Idaho state senator
Top Employers of Graduates
- Portneuf Medical Center
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Boeing
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Micron Technology
6. Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC)
Overview of Lewis-Clark State College
Location: Lewiston, Idaho
Established in 1893, Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC) is a public institution that provides a mix of academic and technical education. LCSC is known for its strong programs in nursing, education, and business, as well as its career and technical programs. The college has a long-standing reputation for preparing students for workforce success, particularly in the healthcare and teaching fields.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #25 Regional Colleges West
- Number of Students: Approximately 3,800
- Degrees Offered: Over 130 associate and bachelor’s degree programs
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: 940-1130
Extracurricular Activities
- Warrior Athletics (NAIA)
- Outdoor Adventure Programs
- Nursing and Health Sciences Clubs
- Student Government
- Music Ensembles
Famous Alumni
- Bruce Sweeney – Former Idaho State Senator
- Tommy Jewell – Former professional baseball player
- Bob Morford – Professional educator and coach
- Dennis R. Wheeler – Chairman of Coeur d’Alene Mines Corporation
- Ruthie Johnson – Educator and community leader
Top Employers of Graduates
- St. Joseph Regional Medical Center
- Idaho State Department of Education
- Clearwater Paper
- PotlatchDeltic
- Lewis-Clark State College
7. Northwest Nazarene University (NNU)
Overview of Northwest Nazarene University
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Founded in 1913, Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is a private Christian university associated with the Church of the Nazarene. It offers a liberal arts education with a focus on character development, community service, and spiritual growth. NNU is known for its programs in education, nursing, business, and theology, and it has a strong emphasis on leadership and service.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: #50 Regional Universities West
- Number of Students: Approximately 2,000
- Degrees Offered: Over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Average SAT Score: 1020-1230
Extracurricular Activities
- NNU Crusaders Athletics (NCAA Division II)
- Campus Ministries
- Student Government Association
- Music and Theater Clubs
- Service and Mission Trips
Famous Alumni
- Jared Zabransky – Former Boise State quarterback
- Richard Hieb – NASA astronaut
- Becky Mitchell – CEO of United Way of Treasure Valley
- Ron Kern – Entrepreneur and author
- Meredith Manning – Former Idaho state representative
Top Employers of Graduates
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Idaho Power
- The Church of the Nazarene
- Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
- Boise School District
8. The College of Southern Idaho (CSI)
Overview of The College of Southern Idaho
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
Founded in 1965, the College of Southern Idaho (CSI) is a public community college that serves the south-central region of Idaho. CSI offers a wide range of associate degree programs and professional certifications. The college is well known for its nursing, agriculture, and technology programs and is committed to providing affordable, accessible education.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Community Colleges)
- Number of Students: Approximately 7,500
- Degrees Offered: Associate degrees and professional certificates
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: Not required
Extracurricular Activities
- CSI Golden Eagles Athletics (NJCAA)
- Outdoor Recreation Programs
- Student Government Association
- Agriculture and Farming Clubs
- Choir and Theater Groups
Famous Alumni
- Steve Appleton – Former CEO of Micron Technology
- Jared Lee – Professional rodeo cowboy
- Allyn Bowker – State legislator
- Gavin DeGraw – Musician (attended but did not graduate)
- Jeff Dayley – Former MLB player
Top Employers of Graduates
- St. Luke’s Health System
- Chobani
- Idaho Department of Agriculture
- Amalgamated Sugar
- College of Southern Idaho
9. Eastern Idaho Technical College (EITC)
Overview of Eastern Idaho Technical College
Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Founded in 1969, Eastern Idaho Technical College (EITC) is a public technical college specializing in career and technical education. Known for its focus on workforce development, EITC offers programs in areas like healthcare, information technology, and trades. The college has close partnerships with industries in the region, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for in-demand jobs.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Technical Colleges)
- Number of Students: Approximately 2,000
- Degrees Offered: Certificates and associate degrees in technical fields
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Average SAT Score: Not required
Extracurricular Activities
- Technical Skills Competitions
- Student Leadership Programs
- Health and Nursing Clubs
- Community Service Initiatives
- Outdoor Adventure Programs
Famous Alumni
- Valerie Richardson – Healthcare administrator
- Tim Keck – IT manager and entrepreneur
- Cameron Nielsen – Trade union leader
- Janet Fuller – Professional welder and educator
- Benji Brown – Entrepreneur in renewable energy
Top Employers of Graduates
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center
- Battelle Energy Alliance
- Melaleuca
- Boeing
10. New Saint Andrews College
Overview of New Saint Andrews College
Location: Moscow, Idaho
Founded in 1994, New Saint Andrews College is a private classical Christian liberal arts college. The college emphasizes a rigorous curriculum based on the classical tradition of education, integrating faith and academics. Known for its small class sizes and close-knit community, New Saint Andrews offers a unique education centered on the humanities, theology, and philosophy.
Notable Aspects
- U.S. News Ranking: Unranked (Private Liberal Arts Colleges)
- Number of Students: Approximately 200
- Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Culture
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Average SAT Score: 1100-1300
Extracurricular Activities
- Theatrical Performances
- Debate Club
- Classical Music Ensembles
- Christian Ministry Programs
- Intramural Sports
Famous Alumni
- Douglas Wilson – Theologian and author
- N.D. Wilson – Author of young adult literature
- Benjamin Merkle – President of New Saint Andrews College
- Rachel Jankovic – Author and speaker
- Toby Sumpter – Pastor and radio host
Top Employers of Graduates
- Logos School
- Christ Church
- Canon Press
- Classical Conversations
- Veritas Press