Public Four-Year Universities in Idaho

University of Idaho

Overview

The University of Idaho (UI), founded in 1889, is Idaho’s oldest public university and a land-grant institution. Known for its comprehensive academic programs, research initiatives, and commitment to community engagement, UI serves as a hub for higher education in Idaho.

Location

Moscow, Idaho

Enrollment

Approximately 12,000 students

Academic Programs

UI offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its ten colleges:

• College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• College of Art and Architecture
• College of Business and Economics
• College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
• College of Engineering
• College of Graduate Studies
• College of Law
• College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences
• College of Natural Resources
• College of Science

The university is particularly known for its programs in engineering, agriculture, law, business, and the sciences. The College of Engineering and the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences are among the most notable.

Research and Innovation

UI is a leader in research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes, including the Idaho Water Resources Research Institute and the Center for Advanced Energy Studies. The university’s research efforts span a wide array of disciplines, from environmental science and engineering to health and social sciences.

Campus Life

UI provides a dynamic campus life with over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts numerous events, such as concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The Idaho Vandals, UI’s athletic teams, compete in the NCAA Division I Big Sky Conference. The university offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include Sarah Palin, former Governor of Alaska and vice-presidential candidate, and Dirk Kempthorne, former Governor of Idaho and U.S. Secretary of the Interior. The university’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as politics, business, science, and the arts.

Boise State University

Overview

Boise State University (BSU), founded in 1932, is a public research university located in Idaho’s capital city. Known for its innovative academic programs, strong emphasis on research, and vibrant campus life, BSU plays a vital role in the educational and economic landscape of Idaho.

Location

Boise, Idaho

Enrollment

Approximately 26,000 students

Academic Programs

BSU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its seven colleges:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Business and Economics
• College of Education
• College of Engineering
• College of Health Sciences
• School of Public Service
• Graduate College

The university is particularly known for its programs in business, engineering, health sciences, and the arts. The College of Business and Economics and the College of Engineering are among the most distinguished.

Research and Innovation

BSU is at the forefront of research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes, including the Center for Materials Characterization and the Andrus Center for Public Policy. The university’s research efforts cover a wide array of disciplines, from engineering and health sciences to business and public policy.

Campus Life

BSU provides a vibrant campus life with over 250 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts numerous events, such as concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The Boise State Broncos, BSU’s athletic teams, compete in the NCAA Division I Mountain West Conference. The university offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include former NFL quarterback Kellen Moore and Olympic gold medalist Kristin Armstrong. The university’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as sports, business, entertainment, and the sciences.

Idaho State University

Overview

Idaho State University (ISU), founded in 1901, is a public research university with a strong emphasis on health sciences, research, and academic excellence. ISU offers a comprehensive educational experience in a supportive and vibrant campus environment.

Location

Pocatello, Idaho

Enrollment

Approximately 12,000 students

Academic Programs

ISU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its six colleges:

• College of Arts and Letters
• College of Business
• College of Education
• College of Science and Engineering
• College of Health
• Graduate School

The university is particularly known for its programs in health sciences, engineering, business, and the arts. The College of Health and the College of Science and Engineering are among the most notable.

Research and Innovation

ISU is dedicated to research and innovation, with numerous research centers and institutes, including the Idaho Accelerator Center and the Institute of Rural Health. The university’s research efforts cover a wide array of disciplines, from health sciences and engineering to business and the arts.

Campus Life

ISU provides a vibrant campus life with over 150 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The university hosts numerous events, such as concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The Idaho State Bengals, ISU’s athletic teams, compete in the NCAA Division I Big Sky Conference. The university offers a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include Academy Award-winning actor Jared Hess and former U.S. Senator Larry Craig. The university’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as entertainment, politics, business, and the sciences.

Lewis-Clark State College

Overview

Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC), founded in 1893, is a public college known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. LCSC offers a comprehensive educational experience in a supportive and vibrant campus environment.

Location

Lewiston, Idaho

Enrollment

Approximately 4,000 students

Academic Programs

LCSC offers a wide range of undergraduate programs through its three schools:

• School of Liberal Arts & Sciences
• School of Professional Studies
• School of Career & Technical Education

The college is particularly known for its programs in nursing, education, business, and the arts. The School of Professional Studies and the School of Career & Technical Education are among the most notable.

Research and Innovation

While LCSC is primarily focused on teaching and professional education, it also supports research activities, particularly in applied and professional fields. The college encourages faculty and students to engage in research that addresses real-world challenges and enhances professional practice.

Campus Life

LCSC provides a vibrant campus life with over 50 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and service organizations. The college hosts numerous events, such as career fairs, workshops, and cultural celebrations, enhancing the student experience.

Athletics

The Lewis-Clark State Warriors, LCSC’s athletic teams, compete in the NAIA’s Frontier Conference. The college offers a variety of sports, including basketball, baseball, and volleyball. The athletics program is an integral part of campus life, fostering school spirit and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni include U.S. Congressman Mike Simpson and former Idaho Governor Cecil Andrus. The college’s alumni network is extensive and influential, with graduates excelling in various fields such as politics, business, education, and the sciences.