Best Community Colleges in Idaho of 2023

The College of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls, ID, is the best community college in Idaho. The school offers technical certificates and associate’s degrees in a wide range of disciplines, including business management, information assurance and cybersecurity, practical nursing, and information technology services. Students can also complete trade programs and enroll in career and college readiness courses to develop in-demand professional skills. Job Corps is now available at the College of Eastern Idaho, allowing qualifying students to receive tuition-free career training and education. The school offers online classes for students that have busy schedules, and career support services, tutoring services, and the school’s laptop loaning program help support students throughout their time at the College of Eastern Idaho.

Located in Twin Falls, ID, the College of Southern Idaho is the best option for high school students interested in getting a head start on their college education. CSI partners with over 60 high schools to serve more than 6,000 students per academic year. High school students can apply for the Fast Forward program under Idaho’s “Advanced Opportunities” initiative for financial assistance, and without this assistance, dual credit courses cost $75 per credit. Students who plan to pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree at a four-year university can earn the Academic Certificate to get started on their degrees. CSI offers college-aged students a wide range of program options, from accounting and agriculture to economics and education. Online courses are available for students that need more flexibility with regard to their learning schedule.

Working adults and students with busy schedules outside of school should strongly consider enrolling at the College of Western Idaho in Nampa, ID. The school offers several course delivery options, allowing students to construct a schedule that works for them. Course delivery options include in-person, online with no designated meeting times, hybrid, online with designated meeting times, and hyflex courses, which allow students to choose between in-person and online as needed. CWI offers a wide range of programs, including certificates and associate’s degrees in anthropology, biology, business, communication, and engineering. Students can also create a

North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, ID, offers a variety of certificates and associate’s degrees. Popular programs at the school include anthropology, astronomy, art, computer science, English, and entrepreneurship. NIC offers in-person, online, and hybrid courses, making it easy for students to create a schedule that works for them. North Idaho College stands out from other community colleges in the area due to its exceptional workforce training programs, designed to help workers develop and hone their professional skills. Through the school’s Workforce Training Center, individuals can participate in custom training programs, apprenticeship programs, programs for individuals who want to pursue careers in the emergency services field, and more. The school also offers personal enrichment courses for adults with special interests.

Based in Caldwell, ID, The College of Idaho is the state's first private liberal arts college. The college stands out as having a particularly innovative curriculum called PEAK. PEAK is designed to help students graduate with an academic major and three minors in four years, making it easy for them to pursue various interests without extending their time in college. This liberal arts-based curriculum challenges students to achieve literacy in four core areas, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional foundations and enhancements. The College of Idaho offers several majors and minors, from biology and chemistry to environmental studies and history. Students can also get hands-on experience through internships, undergraduate research opportunities, and off-campus programs.