Idaho, nicknamed the Gem State, is known for its abundant crop production and holds one of the largest farms in the country. Although very few, the universities and colleges in Idaho have several, high-quality degree programs that students can choose from, including those delivered in an online format.
As job opportunities continue to grow in Idaho, its need for a workforce with higher educational attainment also rises. About 60% of the jobs in Idaho will require a post-secondary credential by the year 2025. Online programs encourage individuals to pursue higher education to meet their personal and professional needs without leaving other priorities behind. This is realized through institutions that continue to expand their programs utilizing the web-based format. Higher education enriches the lives of students by helping them achieve their goals. This, in turn, creates a more thriving workforce and economy for the state.
METHODOLOGY
For a guaranteed return on investment, aspiring Idaho college students should consider an array of factors when choosing an online program in the state. Our selection of the Top 5 Online Schools in Illinois reflects these features that are proofs of the top-quality distance learning programs offered in the academic institutions:
- Top-quality virtual learning platform that provides easy access to the student’s coursework, student resources, and technical assistance,
- Rigorous coursework and program curricula covering a wide range of disciplines,
- Healthy student-teacher ratio for enhanced instruction and learning processes,
- Accreditation from overseeing organizations to ensure that the academic standards are maintained.
For more details on our ranking process, please visit our Methodology Page.
Boise State University
Boise State University is home to more than 25,000 Broncos and holds one of the greatest teams in football history. Located just a few steps away from Boise downtown, Boise State University is also known for its top-of-the-line stadium called Lyle Smith Field in Albertsons Stadium. This 45-year old public research university also not only upholds students in athletics but also fosters academic excellence. The university grants more than 200 degrees, some of which are delivered online. BSU is one of the universities designated as a doctoral research institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institution of Higher Education. It has a graduate school that is the largest in the state and the only one in the nation that offers Raptor Biology.
Boise State Online helps students achieve their educational goals without having to attend a single class at the campus. Some of the areas of study covered in its fully-online programs are Business, Nursing, Public Health, Education Technology, Accountancy, Early and Special Education, Social Work, Early Childhood Intervention, and Applied Science. These programs are delivered for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees and classes are set weekly. Once you are enrolled, a student advisor is then assigned for you to help you navigate the programs, schedules and other requirements. Online students can also access the same materials and services as the campus-based students do and may choose to work with either part- or full-time degree paths.
Location: Boise, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- ACT or SAT results
- Official high school transcript
- Non-resident Admissions Index Calculator for SAT/ACT scores (non-resident applicants_
- GPA of 3.00 (graduate applicants)
- Official transcript
- Program-specific requirements and documents
- Letters of recommendation
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Idaho State University
Established more than a hundred years ago, Idaho State University is a public research university that admits over 12,000 students. Besides being known for its residency training in the health profession and medical education, Idaho State University conducts front-line research in the areas of biological sciences, business, energy, engineering, health professions, humanities, performing and visual arts, as well as technology. Prospective students can choose from over 250 programs offered for a certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. The university takes pride in its low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, which guarantees support and attention given to allow students to reach their highest potential.
Apart from on-campus offerings, ISU also provides online education through eISU. Online programs and courses are organized in six colleges namely, College of Arts and Letters, College of Education, College of Business, College of Science and Engineering, College of Technology, and Division of Health Sciences. Online courses are available in both asynchronous and synchronous setup or through web conferences. Online students have to use Moodle to manage courses. Online students can get the assistance, advisories on scheduled maintenance, and service disruptions that they need through eISU’s Help Desk.
Locations: Pocatello, Idaho (Main Campus), Meridian, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls
Admission Requirements:
- 2.5 or better cumulative unweighted High School GPA of freshman applicants
- 2.0 or better cumulative GPA and final official transcript(s) (transfer students)
- Official college transcript
- Test Scores (GRE, GMAT, etc.)
- Contact information of recommenders
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Idaho
Founded in 1889, the University of Idaho represents the oldest and first university in Idaho. It is a public land-grant university with the largest campus in the state. The University of Idaho hosts almost 12,000 students, and it has awarded more than 125,000 degrees. Its 300 academic offerings are delivered through colleges in agricultural and life sciences, art, architecture, business, economics, health sciences, human sciences, education, arts, engineering, social sciences, and natural resources. Aside from its main campus, research and extension centers are located throughout the state, Boise, Coeur d’Alene, and Idaho Falls. This primary research university is home to a diverse group of students known as the Vandals.
U of I helps students pursue a certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree without having to attend classes on-campus through its Distance and Extended Education program. Online courses and programs are served just the same as campus-based courses. Undergraduate students may enroll in programs such as History, Agricultural Science, General Studies, Psychology, Sociology, and Organizational Sciences. Online graduate studies are structured through areas of study like architecture, education, engineering, natural resources, science, and social science. Certificate programs are also available. Distance and Extended Education online students can easily link to assignments and exams through BbLearn Student Support and ITS Services.
Location: Moscow, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- Application fee of $60
- ACT or SAT scores
- Official high school transcript
- Transfer students should have at least 14 transferable credits.
- Application fee
- Submit an official transcript from all colleges or universities attended
- Graduate students may have program-specific requirements and may be required to submit:
- $60 application fee
- College transcripts and diploma
- Test scores
- Letters of Recommendation
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Northwest Nazarene University
Northwest Nazarene University opened its doors as a grade school and Bible school in 1913. In 1917, it had grown and became a liberal arts Christian college with degree-granting authority from the Idaho State Board of Education. The university has been operating two schools, College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Adult and Graduate Studies, but has now planned to organize programs into seven college structures. These will then be the College of Arts & Humanities, College of Behavioral & Social Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, College of Engineering, Mathematics & Science, College of Nursing and College of Theology & Christian Ministries. There are over 60 areas of study that NNU offers for associate, bachelor’s, graduate, doctoral, and professional degrees.
Northwest Nazarene University accommodates students nationwide and busy working adults through its online programs. There are 20 online programs to choose from which are all housed under the College of Adult and Graduate Studies. Online programs lead to associate, bachelor’s, graduate, professional, and doctoral degrees. Depending on the degree or programs, courses may take 15 weeks a semester or classes may start every eight weeks. Most types utilize a cohort model which encourages students to plan their schedules ahead of time and bring them together with other peers. Online students have full access to library services and are invited to join athletic events and chapel services.
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- 5 High School GPA – Full Admission
- 0 College GPA – Full Admission (transfer students)
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (graduate applicants)
- Application Fee varies from program
- Official transcripts
- Recommendation Forms
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewis-Clark State College traces its history back to 1893 as the Lewis State Normal School. It was established to provide focused and hands-on training for new teachers. After grueling years of difficulty, the school has grown and expanded its programs. It was named Lewis-Clark State College in 1970 and continued to operate as a four-year school. The school caters to 3,684 students and its academic offering add up to 220 degrees. Students may enroll in programs that lead to a certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degree.
Lewis-Clark State College’s distance education offers 19 programs in 32 degrees and certificates. These programs cover areas of study in behavioral science, business, early childhood development, health, interdisciplinary studies, liberal arts, marketing, nursing, sports marketing, and web design. Classes are delivered asynchronously and utilize Blackboard to access entirely online hybrid or web-enhanced courses. Its e-Learning Services provides students with support, technology guidance, and updates them with the latest events through newsletters at e-Bytes. Instructors are also assisted with course design support and tools.
Location: Lewiston, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- Official high school transcripts, a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- ACT/SAT Test scores
- Transfer students:
- Official college transcripts/ military transcripts (if applicable)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Idaho is one of the 16 states taking part in the Western Undergraduate Exchange of the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education (WICHE). This means students who live in the participating states can benefit from reduced out-of-state tuition. This program helps students save more than 35,000 in tuition for a four-year program.
While the state tries everything possible to resolve educational fund cuts, students who want to pursue higher education are still mixed up with starting college because of tuition rates. Online programs help students with cutting back on daily expenses like transportation but finding the most affordable online college is becoming an intimidating task for them.
METHODOLOGY
Let us help you find the best online degree program without breaking the bank. We have compiled a list of colleges and their available degree programs designed to give you top value for your money without ruining your budget. On this list are the 5 Best Value Online Schools in Idaho featuring the most affordable online degree programs and courses in the state. Explore your inexpensive online college options in the Gem State!
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Brigham Young University-Idaho was named as Bannock Stake Academy in 1888. Operated by the Latter-Day Church, the school has gone through a few transitions and was renamed twice. The increase in the number of students brought about these changes. At present, Brigham Young University-Idaho admits almost 50,000 students. This private university centers its education in undergraduate programs with areas of study ranging from agriculture, life sciences, education, human development to performing arts. The school emphasizes the importance of providing high-quality education true to prophetic pronouncements and promises made by the university since it started.
BYUI programs are structured for students who want to explore liberal arts and get an exceptional academic experience without having to spend so much. There are 125 degree programs that are offered through an online format. The school offers online programs in categories like Business, Technology, Family Studies, and Professional Studies. BYUI’s “Pathway Connect” program lets students start or finish an online degree while reducing its cost. Eligible students may enjoy tuition costs that can go from only $73 per credit to $125 per credit. This is almost half the cost of traditional universities. Standard online tuition cost is at $125 per credit for Latter-Day Saints students, and non-LDS students pay $156 per credit.
For financial aid options, students have access to BYU-Idaho grants, federal financial aid, and private aid.
Location: Rexburg, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- New students: English proficiency test (for non-native English speakers)
- For transfer students: At least 15 on-campus credits at a college or university operating under The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
College of Western Idaho
The College of Western Idaho was founded in 2007 as a comprehensive community college in Nampa and Boise, Idaho. It began offering academic programs in 2009 serving 1,000 students. Today, it has a student body of more than 31,000 learners of credit and non-credit courses. College of Western Idaho is one of the only three comprehensive community colleges in the state. Its programs vary from liberal arts, business, accounting, computer science, to health science leading to academic certificates, necessary technical certificates, and associate degrees.
Students seeking an associate degree without having to visit the campus may very well apply for online programs at CWI. College of Western Idaho is currently one of the most affordable colleges online in Idaho. Tuition rate run from $139 per credit (for in-state students) to $306 per credit (for out-of-state students). Also, CWI holds a “Free Application Week” on the chosen semester to encourage students to take the first step to college without having to spend a dime.
Financial Aid options include federal grants, scholarships, student and parent loans, and work-study programs.
Location: Nampa, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- Official high school transcript, home school transcript, or college transcript, or GED transcript (as applicable)
- Official Credential Evaluation
- SAT test scores, or the Math Diagnostic and Write Class Placement (as applicable)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Lewis-Clark State College
Students can take the first step to their career by applying to Lewis-Clark State College without apprehension of student debts. Full-time students who live in Idaho are only charged with very low-cost tuition at $3,491.00 per semester. This amount covers 12 credits or more, which means one credit is approximately $290, while part-time residents of Idaho pay $356 per credit (9 or fewer credits). Non-residents of Idaho may expect a much higher tuition rate. They must pay full-time tuition in addition to non-resident tuition, which yields to $9,989.00 per semester. Online students must also take note of the Online Technology Fee (Blackboard) at $12 per credit.
The financial aid options include Federal grants and loans, work-study programs, scholarships, and waivers.
Location: Lewiston, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- Official high school transcripts, a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- ACT/SAT Test scores
- Transfer students:
- Official college transcripts/ military transcripts (if applicable)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Boise State University
Besides bringing first-class education, Boise State University also guarantees “reasonably priced tuition” to its students. Starting with undergraduate tuition, Idaho-resident students pay $4,034 for 11-16 credits (approx. $252 to $367 per credit). Non-resident undergraduate students can expect $12,494 per semester or about $781 per credit.
Graduate resident tuition is at $4,823 for 11-16 credits (approx. $301 per credit), while graduate non-resident tuition is at $13,283 for 11-16 credits (approx. $830 per credit). Tuition assistance for military students (Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve Members) is also available. The university honors $250 per credit which applies to select online undergraduate programs such as Applied Science, Imaging Science, Management, Multidisciplinary Studies, Public Health, and Public Relations.
Students can take out Federal Loans and Alternative Student Loans. They also have access to grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
Location: Boise, Idaho
Admission Requirements:
- ACT or SAT results
- Official high school transcript
- Non-resident Admissions Index Calculator for SAT/ACT scores (non-resident applicants_
- GPA of 3.00 (graduate applicants)
- Official transcript
- Program-specific requirements and documents
- Letters of recommendation
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Idaho State University
Idaho State University not only excels as one of the best online colleges in Idaho but also strives to provide affordable education in the state. All undergraduate resident students can save tuition by paying only $3,936 per semester (12 credits or more), that is $328 per credit or less while non-resident students tuition is at $12,084 per semester (12 credits or more). Resident graduate students are charged with only $3,936 per semester (9 credits or more) and a Graduate fee of $1,026.98 per semester for a total of $4,962.98 per semester. On the other hand, non-resident graduate students can expect a total of $13,110.98 per semester for tuition and fees.
Students eligible for the American Indian Tuition Fee Program may obtain discounted tuition of 5.74% for both undergraduate and graduate levels. A student’s savings can reach up to $2,300 per semester.
Financial Aid options include federal grants and loans, Subsidized Loans, Unsubsidized Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, and Graduate PLUS Loans. Students may also opt to join a College Work-Study program.
Locations: Pocatello, Idaho (Main Campus) , Meridian, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls
Admission Requirements:
- 5 or better cumulative unweighted High School GPA of freshman applicants
- 0 or better cumulative GPA and final official transcript(s) (transfer students)
- Official College Transcript
- Test Scores (GRE, GMAT, etc.)
- Contact information of recommenders
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities