Best
Private Colleges in Idaho in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Idaho builds skills in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, business law, organizational behavior, statistics, operations, and strategic planning, often with internships or team projects. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human-resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, financial analyst, or small-business owner. Popular Idaho options include Boise State University, University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and Brigham Young University-Idaho, where students can study this degree.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Idaho offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and well-being. Typical courses include developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and counseling foundations. Boise State University, the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and Brigham Young University-Idaho are popular choices. Graduates may pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources assistants, community support workers, or research assistants. Clinical and counseling careers generally require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Idaho combines programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and mathematics. Programs often include projects, internships, and electives in artificial intelligence or networking, and strengthen practical problem-solving skills. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, cybersecurity specialist, data analyst, or IT support professional. Popular Idaho options include Boise State University, the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho State University in Pocatello, and Brigham Young University-Idaho in Rexburg.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Idaho combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum experience. Students learn to support people facing emotional, behavioral, family, and substance-use challenges. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors, depending on degree level and state licensure requirements. Popular Idaho options include Boise State University, the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, and Northwest Nazarene University, offering pathways to counseling careers locally.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Idaho combines classroom learning with clinical experience in hospitals and community settings. Programs commonly cover anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and patient care through supervised clinical rotations. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care facilities, or public health organizations. Popular Idaho colleges offering nursing study include Boise State University, Idaho State University, the University of Idaho, Brigham Young University-Idaho, and Lewis-Clark State College.

Best Colleges in Idaho Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 19,068, compared with 38,059.6 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure about twice as high.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 76.8% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.8%. Schools receive an average of 5,214 applicants, while top 10% schools average 12,830.6 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,394, compared with 1,853 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,100.75 and 23.25, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 7,090.57. Average enrollment is 754 men and 958.6 women.
• The average graduation rate is 59%, compared with 72.8% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 60% for men and 65% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, five offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree. Seven schools are coeducational, while zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, available degree levels, and graduation outcomes. In particular, consider whether a school's cost is manageable for you and whether its programs and student outcomes fit your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Idaho cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Idaho is $21,061.43. It offers a helpful budget benchmark, though your actual degree cost will vary by college, program, residency status, and living choices. The reported average for tuition and fees is $22,068.29, while room and board averages $8,812.60 and books and supplies average $903.40. These figures are separate averages, so they should not be added together as though they describe one student's bill.

In-state students comparing Boise State University in Boise, the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho State University in Pocatello, or BYU-Idaho in Rexburg should check each school's cost-of-attendance estimate. Tuition can differ by program and course load, and housing, meal plans, transportation, and financial aid affect what you pay. Scholarships, grants, and choosing a lower-cost housing option can make earning a degree feel more manageable. Start with the $21,061.43 overall benchmark, then build a school-specific budget before enrolling.

How long does it take to finish college in Idaho?

In Idaho, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two years, depending on your enrollment status. At Boise State University, the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, or BYU-Idaho, your timeline can vary with major requirements, course availability, and whether you study part time.

Idaho's average graduation rate is 59.0%, compared with 72.8% at the top 10% of schools. Rates average 55.6% for men and 60.6% for women. These rates indicate how many students complete college, but results vary; ask schools how they measure graduation.

You can shorten your timeline by applying AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits, taking summer classes, or following an accelerated course sequence. Ask an academic adviser to map prerequisites and required courses before registering. For Idaho students balancing work or family, flexible or online classes may make steady progress easier - and graduating sooner feel genuinely within reach.

Salary

After graduating from college in Idaho, you can expect a median annual alumni salary of about $47,051. Graduates of schools ranked among the top 10% earn a median of about $63,764. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings can vary by field of study, experience, and employer.

Whether you study at Boise State University, the University of Idaho, Idaho State University, or another Idaho college, choosing a program that fits your interests and career goals can help you build a strong start after graduation.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Idaho?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Idaho in Moscow is a lovely choice. Its historic campus, leafy walkways, and carefully tended grounds sit amid the rolling Palouse landscape, giving it a distinctive sense of place. If you enjoy a traditional campus with plenty of green space, it's well worth visiting in person.

What is the most selective college in Idaho?

The College of Idaho in Caldwell is often among the state's most selective colleges, based on its comparatively low admission rate. Selectivity can shift from year to year, and admission rates don't capture the full application picture. For Idaho students, its smaller classes and close-knit campus may make the application process especially appealing.

What is the richest university in Idaho?

If "richest" means the size of a publicly reported endowment, the University of Idaho is generally the leading answer among the state's universities. Endowment figures are not a complete measure of an institution's total wealth, and comparisons can be complicated when organizations report finances differently. The university's resources support teaching, research, and student opportunities.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Idaho Ranking in 2026-2027

The College of Idaho enrolls 1,069 students, with a 63% graduation rate and 49% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost is $36,750, while median alumni salary is $36,250. As a small liberal arts college in Caldwell, it may suit Idaho students seeking a close campus community and broad undergraduate study. Compare the cost with your financial aid offer and expected living expenses before enrolling; outcomes and individual expenses can vary. Its relatively selective admissions rate makes early preparation worthwhile today.

Brigham Young University-Idaho enrolls 45,585 students and reports a 55% graduation rate and 96% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $4,800, and median alumni salary is $45,276. Located in Rexburg, this large, faith-centered university offers Idaho students a broad campus setting. Confirm what the cost figure includes, especially housing, fees, and personal expenses, and check current aid and eligibility details. Its high acceptance rate may make admission accessible, but applicants should still review program requirements carefully before applying.

Northwest Nazarene University has 1,634 enrolled students, a 71% graduation rate, and a 65% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of study is $40,024; median alumni salary is $47,051. Based in Nampa, this Christian university gives Idaho students an option for studying close to home in a smaller campus community. Consider how tuition, housing, transportation, and financial aid affect your personal budget. Its graduation and salary figures offer context, but they cannot guarantee an individual student's completion or earnings later.

Boise Bible College enrolls 94 students, with a 32% graduation rate and a 90% acceptance rate. Its reported total study cost is $10,920; median alumni salary is unavailable. This small, Bible-focused college in Boise may appeal to Idaho students seeking explicitly Christian study in a close-knit setting. Before deciding, ask the college for current program details, complete cost estimates, and information about financial aid. Because salary data are not provided, compare career pathways and employment outcomes directly with the school.

New Saint Andrews College enrolls 305 students, reports a 74% graduation rate and an 84% acceptance rate, and lists total study cost at $16,800. Median alumni salary data are unavailable. Located in Moscow, Idaho, this small classical Christian college may fit students interested in a distinctly faith-based liberal arts education. Ask about degree offerings, transfer options, financial aid, and living costs before making a decision. With no salary figure supplied, investigate graduate outcomes and career preparation for your intended field.