At $13,782/yr net price, University of Idaho graduates earn $54,670/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,670/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,782 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $55,128 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,670/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,670/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,982 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,930/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,390/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,902/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $16,256/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,322/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $86,424 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $84,653 | |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $74,576 | $25,500 |
| Civil Engineering. | Master | $68,499 | |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $68,499 | $27,000 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $67,101 | $24,930 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $59,982 | $21,125 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $59,640 | $30,147 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $57,860 | |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $57,860 | $20,125 |
The Risk Factor
60.9% of students at University of Idaho graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
University of Idaho delivers solid financial returns at a bargain price, with engineering programs leading the way. Your net cost of under $14,000 annually makes this one of the most affordable options for quality education in the Northwest.
Engineering majors see the strongest payoffs here. Electrical engineering graduates earn $86,424 annually while business administration majors pull in $84,653. Computer science graduates earn $74,576, though they carry slightly higher debt loads at $25,500. These technical programs position you well for Idaho's growing tech sector and regional engineering demand.
The biggest financial risk is the 61% graduation rate. If you struggle with large lecture classes or need extensive support services, you may not finish your degree. The 75% retention rate suggests about one in four students transfer or drop out after freshman year.
You should consider Idaho if you want strong technical programs without crushing debt loads. In-state students get strong value, while out-of-state students still pay reasonable rates compared to flagship universities elsewhere. The low debt burden of $21,982 means most graduates can manage payments even in lower-paying fields.
Skip Idaho if you need extensive career services or alumni networks in major metropolitan areas. The rural location limits internship opportunities, and the relatively unknown brand outside the region may hurt job prospects in competitive markets. Liberal arts majors should look elsewhere unless cost is your primary concern.
Only 23% of students receive need-based aid, suggesting most families can afford the sticker price. Merit scholarships exist but competition is limited compared to larger state schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Idaho worth the cost for engineering students?
Yes, University of Idaho engineering programs offer strong ROI with electrical engineering graduates earning $86,424 annually. With a net price of $13,782 per year and median debt of $21,982, engineering students typically see quick payback on their investment.
What is University of Idaho's return on investment compared to other schools?
University of Idaho provides solid value with graduates earning $54,670 after 10 years while paying a relatively low net price of $13,782 annually. The modest median debt of $21,982 makes it more affordable than many state universities.
Should I attend University of Idaho if I'm not studying engineering or business?
University of Idaho's value drops significantly outside engineering and business programs, where graduates earn $68,000-86,000 annually. With overall graduate earnings at $54,670, students in other majors may struggle to justify the cost and should consider alternatives.
How risky is taking on debt to attend University of Idaho?
University of Idaho presents moderate debt risk with a 61% graduation rate and median debt of $21,982. Students who don't graduate or choose lower-paying majors face difficulty repaying loans, especially given the school's average academic selectivity.