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Urban Colleges in Idaho

9 schools in Idaho. See our methodology.

Boise State University stands out among Idaho's urban colleges with a 61.9% graduation rate and $51,658 median earnings, significantly outpacing other institutions in the state. The $19,182 net price reflects solid value in a state where tech companies like Micron Technology and HP create steady demand for graduates. Idaho's nine urban colleges serve 35,127 students with acceptance rates clustering between 83.9% and 86.8%, making higher education accessible across price points from $7,005 at College of Southern Idaho to $31,248 at private institutions. Community colleges like College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls and College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls offer affordable entry points at under $9,000 annually, though graduation rates hover around 35%. The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship helps bridge funding gaps for residents, while the state's low cost of living makes even higher-priced options more manageable than comparable programs in neighboring states.
9
Schools
$17,168
Avg. Net Price
$43,024
Avg. Earnings
44.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Urban Colleges in Idaho

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 City-Midsize 17,081 $19,182 61.9%
2 City-Small 7,260 $17,324 38.3%
3 City-Small 1,396 $8,728 35.3%
4 City-Small 3,476 $7,005 35.1%
5 City-Small 2,488 $11,481 35.7%
6 City-Small 2,277 $12,832 44.7%
7 City-Midsize 433 58.0%
8 City-Small 226 $31,248
9 City-Midsize 467 $29,546

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Boise State University different from other Idaho urban colleges?

Boise State achieves a 61.9% graduation rate compared to the 35-44% range at most other Idaho institutions. With 17,081 students and $51,658 median earnings, it operates at a different scale and outcome level than smaller regional colleges.

How affordable are Idaho's community colleges compared to four-year schools?

Community colleges like College of Southern Idaho ($7,005) and College of Eastern Idaho ($8,728) cost less than half the price of Boise State ($19,182). However, graduation rates at community colleges average around 35% versus 61.9% at Boise State.

Where do graduates from Idaho urban colleges typically find employment?

Major employers include Micron Technology in Boise, HP's operations, and growing tech sector companies. Median earnings range from $37,518 to $51,658, with Boise State graduates commanding the highest salaries in the state's job market.

Is financial aid available for Idaho college students?

The Idaho Opportunity Scholarship provides state funding for residents. Net prices range from $7,005 at community colleges to $31,248 at private institutions, with most public four-year options under $20,000 annually after aid.

How competitive is admission to Idaho's urban colleges?

Acceptance rates remain high across Idaho institutions, ranging from 83.9% to 86.8% where reported. This accessibility, combined with reasonable costs and the state's growing economy, makes Idaho colleges attractive for regional students.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.