Students at the University of Idaho benefit from exceptional affordability combined with reliable academic outcomes, making it one of the most cost-effective public university options in the region.
The university's zero default rate and manageable debt levels demonstrate that graduates successfully transition into careers that support their educational investment.
The University of Idaho delivers reliable outcomes at a reasonable cost, making it a practical choice for students seeking a well-rounded public university experience. Located in Moscow, Idaho, this medium-sized institution combines solid academic programs with accessible pricing, particularly for low- and middle-income families. The university serves about 23% Pell Grant recipients and 32% first-generation students, demonstrating meaningful access while maintaining strong graduation rates.
What distinguishes Idaho is its balance of affordability and outcomes. Net prices remain well below national averages across all income levels, while graduates achieve median earnings of $54,670 ten years after enrollment. The university's engineering and computer science programs stand out particularly strongly, with computer science graduates earning around $74,576 and mechanical engineering majors reaching nearly $60,000 in their early careers.
As a comprehensive public research university, Idaho offers the breadth of a larger institution while maintaining the accessibility and cost structure that makes higher education attainable for working families. The combination of reasonable debt levels, strong technical programs, and consistent graduation rates positions Idaho as a dependable choice for students who want clear pathways to stable, well-paying careers without taking on excessive financial risk.
The University of Idaho's program portfolio reflects a practical focus on career-ready fields that connect directly to regional and national employment opportunities. Computer Science stands out with the highest early-career earnings at $74,576, reflecting strong demand for technology skills and the university's solid reputation in this field. Mechanical Engineering, with 82 graduates earning around $59,982, represents the university's largest high-return program and demonstrates Idaho's strength in preparing students for engineering careers.
Psychology enrolls the most students with 108 graduates, though earnings in this field average $26,298, typical for social science majors who often pursue graduate education or enter public service roles. The university's technical programs consistently deliver the strongest financial returns, while liberal arts and social science fields provide solid preparation for graduate study or careers in education, social work, and related fields.
Idaho's program mix emphasizes practical, applied learning that prepares students for immediate workforce entry. Engineering programs benefit from strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities, while the university's location provides access to internships and job opportunities across the Pacific Northwest. The combination of technical strength and regional connections helps explain why graduates in these fields achieve earnings that exceed typical expectations for similar programs nationwide.
University of Idaho graduates achieve solid long-term financial outcomes, with median earnings of $54,670 ten years after enrollment. This performance places the university around the national average for public institutions, reflecting steady career progression across multiple fields. Graduates also earn slightly more than expected compared with similar students at other institutions, indicating the university adds meaningful value beyond what demographics alone would predict.
The strongest financial returns come from the university's technical programs. Computer Science leads with graduates earning around $74,576 early in their careers, while Mechanical Engineering majors reach approximately $59,982. These programs combine strong starting salaries with excellent long-term growth potential, particularly in Idaho's growing technology sector and the broader Pacific Northwest region. Psychology represents the largest program by enrollment with 108 graduates, though earnings in this field are more modest at around $26,298, reflecting the typical pattern for social science majors who often pursue graduate education or enter public service careers.
The university's program mix emphasizes practical, career-focused fields that connect directly to regional employment opportunities. Engineering programs consistently deliver strong returns on investment, while the university's broader portfolio includes solid options in business, natural resources, and agriculture that align well with Idaho's economic base and provide graduates with clear pathways to stable, middle-class careers.
The University of Idaho offers strong affordability across all income levels, with net prices that remain well below national averages. Low-income students pay approximately $9,930 annually, while middle-income families see costs around $12,902 per year. Even high-income families pay about $18,322, making Idaho accessible to a broad range of economic backgrounds. These prices place the university in the top 25% nationally for affordability, reflecting Idaho's commitment to keeping higher education accessible.
Debt levels remain manageable for most graduates. Typical students leave with about $21,982 in federal loan debt, while families who choose Parent PLUS loans borrow an average of $16,000. The university maintains a 0% federal loan default rate, indicating that graduates can successfully manage their debt obligations. With median earnings of $54,670 ten years out, most borrowers can handle standard repayment without significant financial strain.
What makes Idaho particularly sustainable is the relationship between what students pay and what they ultimately earn. The combination of below-average net prices and solid post-graduation earnings creates a favorable return on investment. Students can focus on their studies without worrying about excessive debt burdens, while families can plan confidently knowing that the financial commitment aligns well with realistic career outcomes.
University Of Idaho Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
