Idaho State University
The Vibe Check
Idaho State University feels like a close-knit, supportive community where students can focus on their studies without the overwhelming pressure of a massive institution. The campus has a practical, hands-on atmosphere, with a strong sense of Idaho pride and a friendly, approachable faculty. It’s a place where you’re not just a number, but a student with a name and a future.
Academics & Majors
ISU is particularly renowned for its health professions programs, including its highly respected College of Pharmacy and strong nursing and physical therapy offerings. The university provides solid teaching with accessible professors, especially in its smaller departmental classes, and offers unique research opportunities in fields like health sciences and wildlife ecology. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences that are directly tied to career preparation.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Pocatello
Life in Pocatello revolves around outdoor recreation, with students frequently hiking, skiing, or mountain biking in the nearby Portneuf Range and Caribou-Targhee National Forest. The city has a relaxed, friendly vibe with a historic downtown featuring local coffee shops, breweries, and restaurants. Campus events and Division I Bengals athletics games also provide a central source of entertainment and school spirit.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($45,608):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Pocatello campus is generally considered safe, with a campus police department that is active and visible. The surrounding city of Pocatello maintains a low-to-moderate crime rate compared to larger urban areas, contributing to a secure environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier health professions and pharmacy programs with strong career outcomes.
- ✓ Very affordable in-state tuition and low average net price.
- ✓ Access to incredible outdoor recreation right from campus.
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible faculty.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (37.7%) can be a concern for student persistence.
- ✗ Pocatello is a smaller, more isolated city with fewer urban amenities.
- ✗ Limited national name recognition outside of the Mountain West region.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Idaho State University is most widely known for its exceptional health professions programs, particularly its College of Pharmacy which is highly regarded in the region. It also has strong programs in education, business, and biology, and is recognized for its unique location providing access to premier outdoor recreation.
No, Idaho State University is not considered a selective school. With an open-enrollment policy, it has a high acceptance rate, admitting the majority of applicants who meet the basic requirements. For the most recent data, a high school GPA around 2.7-3.0 is generally sufficient for admission.
Campus life at ISU is a blend of focused academics and an active outdoor lifestyle. Students are often involved in outdoor activities like hiking and skiing due to Pocatello's location, while on campus, they participate in Division I athletics, student clubs, and a variety of campus events. The atmosphere is friendly and community-oriented, making it easy to get involved.
For in-state students, Idaho State University offers an excellent return on investment, with a low tuition of $8,356 and solid median earnings of $45,608 after graduation. The value is particularly high for students entering high-demand fields like healthcare. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh the higher tuition against the strength of specific programs and potential career earnings.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 12,121
- In-State Tuition $8,356
- Out-of-State $27,466
- Zip Code 83209
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $17,324, ISU offers a significant value, especially for in-state students paying only $8,356 in tuition. The 10-year median earnings of $45,608 provide a solid return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like healthcare. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition requires more careful consideration, but the robust health sciences programs can still lead to a worthwhile financial outcome.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.