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Boise State University

Boise, ID

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Splendor sine Occasu (Latin)”("Splendour Without Diminishment")

Wikipedia
1932
Founded
Public research university
Type
17,081
Total Students
18,729
Undergrad
2,826
Graduate
$184M
Endowment
(2025)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$27K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
84%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
6-year
78%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: David W. Hahn

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Boise State University

Boise State: Idaho's dynamic public research powerhouse with a legendary blue turf.

Boise State University (BSU) stands as a prominent public research institution nestled in the heart of Idaho's capital city. Since its founding in 1932 by the Episcopal Church, BSU has evolved into a dynamic hub of innovation and learning, becoming a fully public university in 1969 and Idaho's third state university in 1974. Today, it proudly holds the classification of "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," underscoring its commitment to impactful discovery and academic excellence across a wide spectrum of disciplines.

Prospective students will find a robust academic environment offering over 100 graduate programs, alongside comprehensive associate and bachelor's degrees. BSU's academic strengths span prestigious colleges such as the College of Business and Economics (home to popular MBA and MAcc programs), the College of Engineering, Arts & Sciences, Education, the School of Public Service, and the College of Health Sciences. With research awards exceeding $83 million in the 2024 fiscal year, students have ample opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to real-world solutions.

Beyond academics, Boise State is renowned for its vibrant campus life and the legendary Bronco spirit. The university's intercollegiate athletic teams, the Broncos, compete in NCAA Division I, famously playing on the unique blue AstroTurf field – the first of its kind. This distinctive field symbolizes BSU's innovative and bold approach, which has led to significant athletic achievements, including Fiesta Bowl victories and a national junior college championship. With a student body of 28,519, BSU provides a lively and engaging experience in a mid-sized city known for its outdoor recreation and thriving community.

Embodying its Latin motto, "Splendor sine Occasu" ("Splendour Without Diminishment"), Boise State University offers an unforgettable collegiate experience where academic rigor, groundbreaking research, and a spirited community converge to prepare students for bright futures.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Classified as an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," reflecting a strong commitment to discovery.
  • ✦Achieved over $83 million in research awards during the 2024 fiscal year, fostering innovation and student involvement.
  • ✦Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio with over 100 graduate programs, including sought-after MBA, MAcc, MPA, MPH, and various engineering degrees.
  • ✦Home to the iconic blue AstroTurf football field, a unique symbol of its bold spirit and a first-of-its-kind innovation in college athletics.
  • ✦The Boise State Broncos compete in NCAA Division I, with notable achievements including multiple conference titles and significant bowl game victories, such as the 2007 Fiesta Bowl.
  • ✦Serves a vibrant student body of 28,519, providing a lively educational experience in Idaho's capital city.
  • ✦Boasts a proud legacy with over 75,000 living alumni (as of 2010).

Timeline

1932
Founded as Boise Junior College by the Episcopal Church.
1934
Became an independent junior college after the Episcopal Church affiliation ended.
1965
Introduced baccalaureate degrees and was renamed Boise College.
1969
Became a public institution under state control, known as Boise State College.
1974
Granted university status, officially becoming Boise State University.
1980
The football team won the I-AA national championship.
1986
The groundbreaking blue AstroTurf field was installed at Bronco Stadium.
1992
Approved its first doctoral degree (Ed.D.) and student enrollment reached 15,000.
1997
The College of Engineering was formally established.
2007
The football team secured a historic victory in the BCS Fiesta Bowl.
🏛️
94 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within Boise State University

💼

College of Business and Economics

Offers popular MBA and MAcc programs.

⚙️

College of Engineering

Provides master's and PhD programs, and bachelor's in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

🎭

College of Arts & Sciences

Home to various master's and PhD programs.

📚

College of Education

Offers master's and PhD programs, including an Ed.D.

🏛️

School of Public Service

Known for its MPA program.

🔬

College of Health Sciences

Features an MPH program.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
President
Zeynep Hansen
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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