Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2024

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Find the best online colleges in Idaho ranked by the academic success of faculty and alumni associated with the colleges and universities and their online degree programs.

Top 10 Online Colleges in Idaho

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  1. University of Idaho
  2. Idaho State University
  3. Boise State University
  4. Lewis–Clark State College
  5. Northwest Nazarene University
  6. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  7. Stevens–Henager College
  1. University of Idaho
  2. Boise State University
  3. Idaho State University
  4. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  5. Northwest Nazarene University
  6. Lewis–Clark State College
  7. Stevens–Henager College
  1. Brigham Young University–Idaho 96%
  2. Northwest Nazarene University 88%
  3. Lewis–Clark State College 87%
  4. Boise State University 84%
  5. University of Idaho 74%
  1. Boise State University 20 to 1
  2. Brigham Young University–Idaho 19 to 1
  3. University of Idaho 16 to 1
  4. Lewis–Clark State College 15 to 1
  5. Idaho State University 13 to 1
  6. Northwest Nazarene University 13 to 1
  1. Northwest Nazarene University $36,298
  2. Lewis–Clark State College $6,996
  3. University of Idaho $6,182
  4. Idaho State University $5,928
  5. Boise State University $5,532
  6. Brigham Young University–Idaho $4,536
  1. Northwest Nazarene University $11,093
  2. Idaho State University $8,601
  3. University of Idaho $7,754
  4. Boise State University $7,236
  5. Lewis–Clark State College $4,703
  1. Stevens–Henager College
  2. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  3. Northwest Nazarene University
  4. Lewis–Clark State College
  5. Boise State University
  6. Idaho State University
  7. University of Idaho
  1. Stevens–Henager College
  2. Lewis–Clark State College
  3. Northwest Nazarene University
  4. Brigham Young University–Idaho
  5. Idaho State University
  6. Boise State University
  7. University of Idaho
  1. University of Idaho 74%
  2. Boise State University 84%
  3. Lewis–Clark State College 87%
  4. Northwest Nazarene University 88%
  5. Brigham Young University–Idaho 96%
  1. Idaho State University 13 to 1
  2. Northwest Nazarene University 13 to 1
  3. Lewis–Clark State College 15 to 1
  4. University of Idaho 16 to 1
  5. Brigham Young University–Idaho 19 to 1
  6. Boise State University 20 to 1
  1. Brigham Young University–Idaho $4,536
  2. Boise State University $5,532
  3. Idaho State University $5,928
  4. University of Idaho $6,182
  5. Lewis–Clark State College $6,996
  6. Northwest Nazarene University $36,298
  1. Lewis–Clark State College $4,703
  2. Boise State University $7,236
  3. University of Idaho $7,754
  4. Idaho State University $8,601
  5. Northwest Nazarene University $11,093

Key Takeaways

  • Idaho is a member state of the The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement in the western region, making it easier for distance learners to enjoy affordable and more accessible academic programs in that region of the U.S.
  • It is one of the states with the most affordable online academic programs at nearly 25% less than the national average for total tuition costs in a public 4-year institution.
  • Idaho residents often pay lower tuition rates than their out-of-state counterparts.

Featured Programs

Employment Outlook for Graduates in Idaho

Idaho takes pride in its having one of the country’s lowest unemployment rates, with just 2.9% in October 2022. Idaho college graduates may not need to seek employment options elsewhere, because the state has been consistent with strong employment prospects.

The latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates that Idaho’s median annual income for all occupations is $47,490.

Some of Idaho’s thriving employment industries include healthcare, business management, and information technology. Idaho’s outdoor recreation industry also indicates a rapid growth rate of 30% over the next decade, with an average annual income of $83,360.

In Idaho’s biggest city, Boise, wages in the healthcare, business management, and I.T. industries allow professionals to have a comfortable living. However, earning lucrative and successful careers still depends on many factors, including educational attainment, work experience, and other credentials.

State Authorization For Online Learning in Idaho

As mentioned, Idaho is a member of The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA), which allows out-of-state students to enroll in online degree programs and pay in-state tuition fees. Distance learners from any NC-SARA state must inquire about potential tuition savings when pursuing any of Idaho’s ten participating schools.

Apart from tuition discounts, all colleges and schools participating in NC-SARA comply with a comprehensive set of guidelines that protects and advocates for the integrity of distance learning and its management.

Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Idaho

Idaho has one of the least expensive private 4-year college tuitions, averaging $14,380 per year.

Although residency requirements vary per online school, most Idaho schools require in-state students to either have an account with an Idaho-based financial institution, an Idaho state vehicle registration or driver’s license, be a registered voter in Idaho, or have resided in Idaho for at least one year.

Since Idaho participates in NC-SARA, out-of-state undergraduate and graduate students in traditional and online programs can enjoy tuition discounts at some Idaho colleges and universities. Students seeking undergraduate degrees can find more details through the Western Undergraduate Exchange.

On the other hand, online graduate students can find more detailed information regarding tuition discounts on the Western Regional Graduate Program. Tuition discounts in online schools are only applicable to students residing in one of the 16 member states participating in the agreement. Students must arrange for these benefits through the registrar during admission or enrollment.

Colleges and Universities in Idaho

While there are only a few major colleges in Idaho, prospective students do have some excellent public options. In fact, just over half of the 13 colleges and universities in Idaho are public school options.

Boise State University, Idaho’s largest public university, serves roughly 17,000 students through both on-campus and online degree programs. Students at Boise State University can pursue both traditional and online degrees in fields like communications, earth sciences, and engineering.

Other major public universities in Idaho include Idaho State University and Lewis-Clark State College. This is noteworthy because Idaho residents who attend public online colleges in Idaho will still have access to in-state tuition discounts. Out of state students will pay more.

Idaho is also home to five private schools, including the state’s largest school, Brigham Young University Idaho, which has a student population of nearly 49,000 students.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

While students at BYU school can expect to pay around $4,000 in tuition, well below the national average, tuition for Idaho’s other private colleges costs between $13,000 and $30,000 per year.

The majority of Idaho’s colleges and universities can be considered small schools, serving student populations of 4,000 or less. However, the state’s largest schools offer the most affordable tuition fees, with both traditional and online students having access to tuition for as little as $4,000 per year.

Students who pursue their degrees in Idaho can study fields like chemistry, law, and anthropology at the University of Idaho; or religious studies, psychology, and literature at New Saint Andrews College. Additionally, Idaho offers a loan forgiveness-based financial program of up to $100,000 to physicians who work in the state’s rural areas.

French fries, mashed potatoes, tater tots, and even potato-inspired ice cream - Idaho is, as per its reputation, a potato lover’s dream. But it’s not all spuds in this state. Along with countless hiking trails, rivers perfect for rafting trips, and 72 types of gemstones, this state offers both on-campus and online degree programs with competitive tuition fees and excellent professors.

For more information, explore some of Idaho’s top programs and future career possibilities.


What are Idaho’s Colleges & Universities?

Idaho’s Best Overall

Best Online Colleges in Idaho
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Best Online Colleges in Idaho 2023

  1. #1

    University of Idaho

    Moscow , ID
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $8,816
    Expenses: $15,164
    Starting Salary: $47,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA/BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BGS in General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  2. #2

    Idaho State University

    Pocatello , ID
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    15K

    Career Outlook for degree at Idaho State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,356
    Expenses: $14,854
    Starting Salary: $43,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Fire Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Family Consumer Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Homeland Security And Emergency Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Secondary Education

    Concentrations

    • Business Education
    • Business Technology
    • Family and Consumer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Sociology

    Concentrations

    • Criminology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Surveying and Geomatics Engineering Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Workplace Training and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for degree at Boise State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,782
    Expenses: $23,559
    Starting Salary: $43,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BAS in Applied Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cyber Operations and Resilience
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Imaging Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Multidisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Respiratory Care
    • Required Credits: 120-128
    • Completion time: 4-6 years
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lewis–Clark State College

    Cost of Degree: $7,388
    Expenses: $17,330
    Starting Salary: $38,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BA/BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Business and Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Communication Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Computed Tomography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BTC in Early Childhood Development
    • Required Credits: 10
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in General Studies

    Concentrations

    • Education
    • Humanities
    • Natural Sciences And Mathematics
    • Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Studies

    Concentrations

    • Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 83
    • Completion time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Justice Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (LPN-to-BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Radiographic Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social Science

    Concentrations

    • Anthropology
    • History-Secondary Education
    • Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Science

    Concentrations

    • Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA/BS in Sport Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  5. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Northwest Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $40,895
    Expenses: $17,216
    Starting Salary: $46,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 150
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (RN to BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Brigham Young University–Idaho

    Cost of Degree: $4,656
    Expenses: $10,714
    Starting Salary: $49,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Health Informatics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Applied Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marriage and Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: Online
  7. Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting

    Emphasis

    • Forensic
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration

    Concentrations

    • Marketing
    • Technology
    • Human Resource
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity and Networking
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Graphic Arts
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Respiratory Care

    Concentrations

    • Management
    • Advanced Clinical Practice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Software and Mobile Applications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online
    BS in Web Design and Development
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion time: 20-38 months
    • Format: Online

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