The College of Idaho
Caldwell, ID
Quick Facts
“Rex Lex Dux Lux”(My Leader, my Light,)
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About The College of Idaho
Idaho's oldest private liberal arts college, pioneering 'Do More in Four' for an accelerated future.
The College of Idaho, affectionately known as C of I, stands as Idaho's oldest private liberal arts college, nestled in Caldwell. Since its founding in 1891, it has cultivated a vibrant learning environment characterized by a commitment to academic rigor and an innovative approach to education. With a close-knit community of just over 1,000 students, C of I is renowned for providing a personalized and impactful collegiate experience where students are encouraged to be "Coyotes" — bold, resourceful, and community-minded.
The college's rich history began with William Judson Boone, who, supported by the Presbyterian Church, established the institution to serve the Idaho Territory. From its humble beginnings in downtown Caldwell, the college grew, eventually moving to its picturesque 55-acre campus in 1910. Though it briefly operated as Albertson College of Idaho, a significant decision in 2007 saw it proudly revert to its original name, reaffirming its deep roots and enduring legacy as a cornerstone of Idaho higher education.
Academically, The College of Idaho is pioneering its "Do More in Four" curriculum, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. This innovative model allows students to attend classes just four days a week, taking four, four-credit classes per semester, and offers the unique opportunity to earn both an undergraduate and a graduate degree within a single four-year timeframe. Students can choose from 30 undergraduate programs and pursue graduate degrees in specialized fields like Sports Administration and Physician Assistant Studies, preparing them for diverse and impactful careers.
Beyond the classroom, C of I fosters a holistic educational experience. The campus is home to the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, a valuable regional resource for scientific research and student projects. The college's dedication to developing well-rounded individuals is evident in its impressive alumni network, which includes eight Rhodes Scholars, three governors, and successful professionals across various fields, embodying the college's motto: "Rex Lex Dux Lux" (My Leader, my Light, my King, and my Law).
Key Highlights
- ✦Idaho's oldest private liberal arts college, established in 1891.
- ✦Pioneering "Do More in Four" curriculum: earn undergrad + grad degrees in 4 years with a 4-day class week (starting 2025-2026).
- ✦Offers 30 undergraduate programs (B.A./B.S.) and 4 graduate degrees.
- ✦Alumni include 8 Rhodes Scholars and 3 state governors.
- ✦Endowment of US$111 million, supporting student success and campus growth.
- ✦Home to the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, a unique regional resource for research.
- ✦Small, vibrant student body of 1,085 fosters a personalized learning environment.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within The College of Idaho
Graduate Program in Sports Administration
Offers a master's degree preparing students for leadership roles in sports administration.
Graduate Program in Medical Science
A graduate degree focusing on advanced studies in medical sciences.
Graduate Program in Physician Assistant Studies
A comprehensive graduate program leading to a career as a Physician Assistant.
Graduate Program in Education
Offers advanced studies and degrees in various fields of education.
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