College of Idaho Profile & Rankings

Founded in 1891, The College of Idaho (C of I) stands as the oldest private liberal arts institution of higher education in the state of Idaho. Located in Caldwell, a city in the southwestern part of the state, the college has played an important role in providing a high-quality, liberal arts education that emphasizes intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth. Over its more than 130 years of history, the College of Idaho has built a reputation for fostering a strong academic community, preparing students for leadership, and equipping them with the tools they need to excel in their chosen careers.

The College of Idaho offers a broad range of academic departments and programs, ensuring that students can pursue their diverse academic interests while receiving a well-rounded education. These include departments in Anthropology and Sociology, Art, Asian Studies, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Education, English, Environmental Studies, History, Philosophy and Religion, Political Economy, Psychology, and Theatre, among others. The college also offers a Leadership Program and a Gipson Scholar Program, which are designed to encourage leadership development and community engagement among students. This wide array of programs allows students to choose from multiple career paths, while also fostering interdisciplinary learning and collaboration across different fields of study. Whether pursuing a degree in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, or the arts, students at the College of Idaho have access to an education that is both rigorous and flexible.

The College of Idaho’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) since 1922, a mark of its long-standing dedication to maintaining high standards in education. The college’s teacher education program is approved by the Idaho State Department of Education, allowing graduates to pursue certification and teaching careers in the state. This accreditation ensures that the College of Idaho’s programs are aligned with the best practices in higher education, and that students graduate with the qualifications and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce.

One of the distinguishing features of the College of Idaho is its focus on providing both a broad liberal arts education and an array of specialized programs that prepare students for professional careers. For example, the college’s Business Department provides a strong foundation in business principles, offering programs that emphasize leadership, ethics, and critical thinking in a business context. Similarly, the Biology Department provides students with a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences, from molecular biology to ecology, and prepares them for graduate studies or careers in fields such as healthcare, research, and environmental conservation. These programs, like many others at the College of Idaho, are designed to not only teach students subject-specific knowledge but also to help them develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration—skills that are valuable in any profession.

The college’s environmental studies program is particularly noteworthy, reflecting both the region’s natural beauty and the growing importance of sustainability and conservation in today’s world. With Idaho’s diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers, students at the College of Idaho are able to engage in hands-on learning and field-based research, gaining practical experience in environmental conservation and policy. This program is a perfect example of the college’s commitment to creating educational experiences that are deeply connected to the world outside the classroom, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings.

In addition to its academic strengths, the College of Idaho offers a number of opportunities for students to engage in campus life and extracurricular activities. These opportunities help students build leadership skills, form lasting friendships, and contribute to the campus community. The college is known for its vibrant campus life, with a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and events that cater to various interests. Whether through arts and culture, sports, service, or student governance, students at the College of Idaho are encouraged to be active participants in shaping the campus culture.

The college’s strong emphasis on student involvement is reflected in its ranking as the 20th best college in the U.S. for “More Things to Do on Campus,” according to The Princeton Review. This ranking highlights the vibrant extracurricular opportunities available to students, which complement their academic pursuits and contribute to a well-rounded college experience. From student-run theater productions to outdoor adventure clubs, students have ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. The College of Idaho’s dedication to fostering a dynamic and supportive campus environment contributes to a sense of community, where students are encouraged to grow both intellectually and personally.

The college’s commitment to student success is also evident in its rankings and recognition. According to U.S. News & World Report (2011), the College of Idaho is ranked 174th among Tier 1 National Liberal Arts Colleges. This ranking places the college among the top institutions in the country, underscoring its academic quality and reputation. In the 2009 edition of America’s Best Colleges, the College of Idaho improved its standing in several key areas, including peer assessment, alumni support, and freshman retention. These improvements reflect the college’s ongoing efforts to enhance its programs and support services, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed throughout their college careers.

In addition to U.S. News, the College of Idaho has been recognized by Forbes.com, which rated it 174th among 569 colleges and universities in its rankings. This recognition reflects the college’s competitive academic programs, as well as its commitment to providing an education that is both rigorous and accessible. Furthermore, the college’s inclusion in The Princeton Review’s list of “Best 368 Colleges” speaks to the overall quality of the institution and its ability to provide an enriching educational experience for students.

While rankings and recognition are important, the College of Idaho’s true strength lies in its ability to provide students with a personalized education that is grounded in the liberal arts tradition. With a low student-to-faculty ratio and a commitment to close student-faculty interaction, the college ensures that students receive individualized attention and mentorship, which fosters academic growth and personal development. The faculty at the College of Idaho are not only experts in their fields but also dedicated teachers and mentors who are invested in their students’ success.

The College of Idaho also offers a range of financial assistance options to make higher education more accessible. The college provides both need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships, ensuring that students have the support they need to afford their education. These financial aid programs are designed to make the College of Idaho’s high-quality education accessible to students from all financial backgrounds.

In conclusion, The College of Idaho is an institution that combines academic rigor, personalized attention, and a commitment to developing well-rounded, responsible leaders. With a diverse range of academic departments, strong programs in environmental studies and business, and a campus life that encourages student involvement and leadership, the college provides a rich educational experience that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. The College of Idaho’s long-standing history, academic excellence, and vibrant campus community make it an excellent choice for students seeking a liberal arts education that is both intellectually challenging and personally enriching. Whether pursuing a career in education, business, the sciences, or the arts, students at the College of Idaho are well-prepared to thrive in their chosen professions and contribute meaningfully to society.