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The College of Idaho

Caldwell, ID

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Rex Lex Dux Lux(My Leader, my Light,)

1891
Founded
Private liberal arts college
Type
1,049
Total Students
$111M
Endowment
$36K
Tuition (In-State)
$36K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
47%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
6-year
76%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: David Douglass

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 a "Do More in Four" path to success.

The College of Idaho, nestled in Caldwell, Idaho, stands as the state's oldest private liberal arts college, offering a vibrant and innovative educational experience. Since its founding in 1891, C of I has been dedicated to a holistic approach to learning, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for diverse futures. Its intimate campus environment cultivates strong community bonds, ensuring every student feels supported and challenged within its 55-acre suburban park campus.

Academically, the college is pioneering a groundbreaking "Do More in Four" curriculum, set to begin in the 2025-2026 academic year. This unique program allows students to attend classes four days a week, focusing on four four-credit courses per semester, with the exciting opportunity to earn both an undergraduate and a graduate degree within just four years. Beyond its 30 undergraduate B.A. programs (with select B.S. options), the college also offers four graduate degrees in Sports Administration, Medical Science, Physician Assistant Studies, and Education, providing pathways for advanced study.

C of I's rich history, starting as a Presbyterian college founded by William Judson Boone, is reflected in its enduring commitment to excellence. The college boasts a proud legacy, counting eight Rhodes Scholars, three governors, and several professional athletes among its alumni. Students also benefit from unique resources like the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, the only natural history museum for southwestern Idaho, southeastern Oregon, and northern Nevada, which serves as a vital resource for education, community engagement, and scientific research.

Key Highlights

  • Idaho's oldest private liberal arts college, founded in 1891.
  • Pioneering "Do More in Four" curriculum starting 2025-2026, enabling undergraduate and graduate degrees in four years.
  • Offers 30 undergraduate programs (B.A./B.S.) and 4 graduate degrees.
  • Alumni include 8 Rhodes Scholars and 3 governors.
  • Home to the Orma J. Smith Museum of Natural History, a unique regional scientific and educational resource.
  • Current enrollment of 1,085 students with an endowment of US$111 million.

Timeline

1884
Presbyterian Church's Wood River Presbytery forms a commission to examine establishing a college.
1890
Offer from Caldwell citizens accepted to locate the institution in the community.
1891
Founded by William Judson Boone; first classes held on October 7 for 19 students.
1893
Incorporated under Idaho laws and placed under a self-perpetuating board of trustees.
1910
College moves to its present 20-acre site; Sterry Hall and Finney Hall built.
1936
William Judson Boone, who served as president for 45 years, passes away.
1991
Board of trustees votes to change the name to Albertson College of Idaho.
2007
Name reverts to The College of Idaho, with mutual agreement of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation.
2025
The new "Do More in Four" curriculum is implemented, replacing the previous "PEAK" curriculum.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within The College of Idaho

🎓

Graduate Program in Sports Administration

One of four graduate degrees offered by the college.

🏥

Graduate Program in Medical Science

One of four graduate degrees offered by the college.

🎓

Graduate Program in Physician Assistant Studies

One of four graduate degrees offered by the college.

📚

Graduate Program in Education

One of four graduate degrees offered by the college.

Leadership

David Douglass
CEO

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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