university-of-idaho

Studying Computer Science at the University of Idaho

See our ranking of the 50 Most Advanced University Computer Science Departments.

The University of Idaho offers a rigorous program for students who want to pursue careers in technology, specifically computer science. Offered through the College of Engineering, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science boasts several benefits, including “cutting-edge, world-class research; a congenial, accessible faculty; and an active student population” according to the department website. The program also takes a practical approach to the field, encouraging students in subject areas like information assurance, embedded systems, software engineering and artificial intelligence. Students in the program will complete:

  • 26 general education credits
  • 55 computer science credits
  • 20 math and statistics credits
  • 12 science credits
  • 11 free elective credits

Within these requirements, students must choose from specific courses. In the science category, for example, computer science students need to pick from relevant biology, environmental science or physics courses. The department website identifies which courses count toward the requirement, noting exceptions in each case. Throughout the program, students will meet with an academic advisor before registering to ensure that all requirements are met before progressing to the next phase.

In addition to studying a wide array of courses relevant to computer science, students who enroll in the B.S. program will benefit from the Center for Secure and Dependable Systems, a 3,000-sq. ft. laboratory space designated solely for research in the field of information technology. The CSDS is a self-funded enterprise that allows students to hone their skills in areas like data security information assurance. In 1999, the University of Idaho was recognized by the National Security Agency as one of the seven original Centers of Excellence in Information Assurance Education, making this school an excellent choice for students who want to work in the field of computer science.

UI also offers a Master of Science (M.S.) Computer Science that can be completed online.

About The University of Idaho

Founded in 1892, the University of Idaho enjoys a solid reputation and history among public institutions in the Pacific Northwest. The first graduating class comprised just four students in 1896, but the campus has grown to offer undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to about 12,000 students each year. Over the past 124 years, the school has seen substantial changes not only in its student body growth but in its architectural evolution as well. Several notable architects have designed key buildings, including the Administration Building, which has stood at the center of campus since the turn of the 20th century.

The University of Idaho hosts its main campus in Moscow, but students can attend classes at four additional locations, including Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls and Research Park. The school offers 85 bachelor’s degrees, 63 master’s degrees, 31 doctoral programs, two specialist programs and one law program. Students will appreciate the student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1. In terms of campus activities, students here can choose from more than 200 organizations and a diverse array of athletic opportunities.

The school also boasts several achievements and recognition from various publications. The Princeton Review consistently ranks the school among the best in the nation. Kiplinger’s, Newsweek and Forbes have also recognized the school for being a good value, and Outdoor Magazine recommended the University of Idaho to its readers in a list of the 25 best schools in 2012.

University of Idaho Accreditation Details

The University of Idaho maintains accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Several of the university’s individual programs and colleges also maintain separate accreditation through various organizations. For instance, the bachelor’s program in computer science is accredited by the Computer Accreditation Commission of ABET. Students can learn more about the school’s accredited programs by visiting the university’s accreditation page.

University of Idaho Application Requirements

Application requirements vary based on a student’s enrollment status. Students who apply to the University of Idaho directly from a regionally accredited high school, for example, will need to submit the following:

  • A completed application and nonrefundable $60 fee
  • Official high school transcripts and standardized test scores
  • Transcripts from universities if they took college-level courses during high school

Incoming freshmen will need to meet certain GPA, test score and core requirements as outlined by the university. Home-schooled students need to submit additional documentation, such as a statement of academic intent, three letters of recommendation and a description of the materials covered during the student’s homeschooling. The university also outlines separate application and admissions requirements for GED students, those who come from non-accredited high schools and students with fewer than 14 transferable credits.

Graduate, international and transfer students will also need to meet specific guidelines for admittance. For graduate students, the university offers a complete breakdown of admission and application requirements depending on program, which can be viewed on the school’s admissions page.

For students who want to earn a degree online or take online courses, the University of Idaho offers a wide range of options through its Distance & Extended Education website. To apply, students need to apply through the regular admissions process and gain admittance to the university. Once admitted, students can enroll in online courses via Vandal Web, the school’s online portal.

Tuition and Fees

The University of Idaho has been recognized as one of the most affordable schools in the country by Newsweek, ranking third in 2012. Full-time, in-state undergraduate students pay $7,020 for a full academic year as of fall 2015. Non-resident undergraduates pay $21,024 per academic year, which is two semesters. Idaho resident graduate students pay $8,022 per academic year while out-of-state graduate students pay $22,226. Law students are charged a separate rate of $17,230 for Idaho residents and $31,234 for non-residents. Students who enroll in online courses pay the same tuition rates as on-campus students.

These rates reflect tuition and student fees only, so students should consult the university’s financial aid website for more information on individual program fees, room and board, and other various fees. The university awards more than $25 million in scholarships and funding each year, and there are plenty of options for many students, including:

  • The Discover Idaho Scholarship
  • The Go Idaho! Scholars Program
  • Transfer student funding
  • David L. Boren Scholarships and Fellowships
  • Army ROTC scholarship

Students who need financial assistance have several options at the University of Idaho, including institutional and program scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. Graduate students can also participate in assistantships, fellowships and other similar opportunities. The priority deadline for financial aid applications is Feb. 15.

To learn more about studying computer science at The University of Idaho, click here.