Brave and bold is earned
Vandals drive bold, sustainable solutions to global challenges. We push boundaries, rethink the norm and pioneer eco-friendly innovations. For more than 130 years, we’ve lived our mission of progress.
Idaho’s only Carnegie R1 university
Top 4% in the nation
Only 187 universities nationwide — just 4% — hold the prestigious Carnegie R1 classification that recognizes the highest level of research activity. University of Idaho is proud to be that group.
We invest more in research than any other university in the state — $135.9 million annually — advancing innovation, driving economic growth and preparing students at every level to create solutions that matter.
Our world-class faculty and hands-on research opportunities empower Vandals to tackle global challenges — from energy and agriculture to cybersecurity and ecology. As Idaho’s only R1 university, we deliver breakthrough ideas that serve communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Idaho's research leader
From microelectronics to the state's ecological policies, U of I researchers are making discoveries to drive Idaho forward.
Leading the West
U.S. News & World Report: Best Value Public University in the West
Holding strong for five consecutive years, University of Idaho is ranked the Best Value Public University in the West — nationally recognized for social mobility and academic excellence.
Best Value rankings compare the overall quality of an institution with its price and average amount of student aid.
Top Social Mobility Performer
Named in the top 100 performers for social mobility in the nation. —U.S. News & World Report
Social mobility reflects a university’s ability to help students make the most of their opportunities and quality of life after graduation. U.S. News & World Report ranks institutions based on how well they support students in advancing to higher levels of success and achievement.
Innovation comes standard
From groundbreaking research to bold thinking, University of Idaho leads in every field we touch.
- Laser-etched subfloors simplify construction processes
- Providing safe passage for a native Idaho fish
- CBE classmates are finalizing an invention to automate dispensing prescription medication
- Developing the best virtual fence ear tag for cows
- U of I research could create a healthier U.S. military
- Regional EHHS graduates are improving lives in the public health sector
- Plowing through code
- Interdisciplinary team translates historic German cello educational book using generative AI
- Undergrad researcher in Coeur d’Alene pioneers AI use in predictive modeling for Valley Fever spread
- Drone lab supports aerial-based research across disciplines
Curious on purpose
We ask the hard questions and chase real-world answers.
Recognized for results by U.S. News & World Report
National Rankings
- #23 Best Value Schools
- #97 Top Public Schools
- #156 Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs
Graduate School Rankings
- #65 Best Education Schools
- #141 Best Law Schools (#76 Environmental Law)
- #83 Earth Sciences
- #100 Biological Sciences
- #136 Physics
- #46 Rehabilitation Counseling
- #161 Chemistry
- #133 Computer Science
Global Rankings
- #1291 Best Global Universities
- #427 Agricultural Sciences
- #1330 Engineering
- #411 Environment/Ecology
- #438 Plant and Animal Science
UIdaho fast facts
- Founded: 1889
- Nickname: Vandals
- Enrollment: 12,286
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Annual Research Funding: $136M
- Degrees Awarded: 140,942
- National Merit Scholars: 63
- Minority Enrollment: 17%
- International Students: 7%
- Locations: Moscow (Main) | Boise | Coeur d'Alene | Idaho Falls | Online
Budget snapshot
- $198.9M General education budget
- $14.8M Land-grant endowment
- $74.9M Tuition
- $109.1M State General Fund