College of Western Idaho
Out-of-state tuition
$7,454
In-state $4,446
Peer median $8,816
Undergraduates
11,015
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 18 : 1
Graduation rate
26.8%
Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 31.8%
Peer median 33.7%
“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is a vibrant educational institution located in the heart of Idaho, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment for its students. Established in 2007, CWI has quickly grown to become a pivotal resource for higher education in the region. With a focus on providing affordable, high-quality education, the college offers a wide array of programs ranging from associate degrees to technical certifications, catering to the diverse needs of the community. CWI emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce or further academic pursuits.
CWI prides itself on its state-of-the-art facilities, which include modern classrooms, laboratories, and a comprehensive library that supports both academic and personal growth. The college also boasts an array of student services and resources, including academic advising, career services, and extracurricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded student life. The campus culture is vibrant and engaging, with numerous clubs and organizations that encourage student participation and foster a sense of community. Additionally, CWI has a strong commitment to student success, providing robust support systems to help students achieve their academic and career goals. With a focus on innovation and community engagement, the College of Western Idaho continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of higher education in the region.
Analysis of Key Metrics at College of Western Idaho
The College of Western Idaho has exhibited notable trends in tuition, student retention, graduation rates, and gender ratios over recent years.
Firstly, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained relatively stable at $4,336 since 2019, while out-of-state undergraduate tuition has consistently been $7,344. This stability in tuition fees can be seen as a positive aspect for prospective students, potentially making higher education more accessible. However, the increase in room and board costs, which rose significantly from $5,544 in 2014 to $8,149 in 2024, raises concerns about overall affordability for students.
Retention rates have shown improvement, rising from approximately 49.8% in 2014 to around 57.2% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the institution is becoming more effective at keeping students enrolled, which is crucial for their overall success and for reducing dropout rates.
Graduation rates have also seen a positive trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate increasing from about 4.1% in 2014 to 14.3% in 2023. Furthermore, the rate of 150% completion time graduation has grown from 13.9% to 24.7% in the same period. These improvements indicate that students are not only staying in school longer but also succeeding in completing their degrees.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has fluctuated over the years. In 2023, female students represented approximately 56.2% of the undergraduate population, while males accounted for 43.8%. This shift towards a higher female enrollment is consistent with broader trends in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing degrees at higher rates than men.
In summary, the College of Western Idaho is experiencing positive developments in retention and graduation rates, alongside stable tuition fees, though the rising costs of living on campus remain a concern. The changing demographics in gender ratios reflect broader societal shifts in education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Boise, about 15 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 280 mi
- Also known as
- CWI
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Gordon Jones (President)
- Phone
- 2085623000
- Address
- 5500 East Opportunity Drive, Nampa, ID 83687
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at College of Western Idaho
The graduation data from the College of Western Idaho for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends. A predominant observation is the lack of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees awarded across various disciplines, with a complete absence of degrees in these categories. This indicates a potential focus on associate degrees, which may cater to students seeking quick entry into the workforce, especially in fields like welding technology and fire science.
Interestingly, while some programs, such as agricultural business and management, have produced a single associate degree, others, like social work, have seen a significant number of graduates (46 associate degrees). This suggests that certain vocational paths are more appealing or accessible to students, possibly due to job market demands or the nature of the programs offered.
Moreover, the data shows no international students graduating with bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degrees, which may reflect the college's focus on community-based education or the challenges international students face in navigating higher education in the U.S. This could be an area for potential development, as diversifying the student population can enhance the learning environment and expand global perspectives within the college.
Overall, the emphasis on associate degrees points towards a pragmatic approach to education at the College of Western Idaho, aligning with the growing trend of vocational training and technical education. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for the institution to adapt its offerings and support systems to meet the needs of both local and international students.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $30,166 | |
| Dental Assisting/Assistant. | - | |
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | $34,200-$40,821 | |
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $34,200-$40,821 | |
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $34,200-$40,821 | |
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | $58,429 | |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $73,226 | |
| Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $37,574-$38,904 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | - | |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | - | |
| Network and System Administration/Administrator. | $46,958-$48,483 | |
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $46,958-$48,483 | |
| Computer Support Specialist. | $46,958-$48,483 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $44,277 | |
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |
| Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping. | - | |
| Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General. | - | |
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | $60,238 | |
| CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician. | $55,241-$55,455 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - | |
| Autobody/Collision and Repair Technology/Technician. | $40,541-$43,674 | |
| Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $40,541-$43,674 | |
| Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician. | $40,541-$43,674 | |
| Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/Technician. | $40,541-$43,674 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $49,099 | |
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $49,099 | |
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $24,021 | |
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $24,021 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Business and Management, Other. | - | |
| Applied Horticulture/Horticulture Operations, General. | - | |
| Animal Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences. | - | |
| Human Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |
| Geography. | - | |
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $28,211 | |
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | |
| American Sign Language (ASL). | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Tool Technology/Machinist. | $44,878-$45,039 | |
| Welding Technology/Welder. | $44,878-$45,039 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |
| Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Trades, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Child Care and Support Services Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate |
|---|---|---|
| Air and Space Operations Technology. | - |
Students
11,015 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 65.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,043
- First-year undergraduates 883
- Transfers and others 6,089
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (11,015)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Student Demographics at College of Western Idaho in 2023
The 2023 demographic data from the College of Western Idaho reveals significant insights into the student population. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,541, with a gender distribution of 47% male and 53% female. This indicates a slightly higher representation of female students among the new entrants, a trend that has been observed in many colleges across the United States, where female enrollment often surpasses that of males.
The undergraduate juniors, numbering 3,858, showcase a similar trend, with males constituting 40.6% and females 59.4%. This consistent pattern of female dominance in enrollment may reflect broader societal shifts where more women are pursuing higher education and entering diverse fields.
For undergraduate transfers, the total is 427, with 39.6% male and 60.4% female, maintaining the trend of higher female enrollment. The number of non-degree students is particularly notable, with 4,094 individuals, of which 46% are male and 54% are female.
In terms of racial demographics, while specific ratios are not fully detailed for all categories, the data indicates that the majority of students belong to the white demographic across all categories, with other ethnicities represented as well. The diversity within the college could be further evaluated through more comprehensive data, as this is essential for fostering an inclusive environment.
Overall, this snapshot provides a glimpse into the evolving student demographic landscape at the College of Western Idaho, emphasizing the need for institutions to adapt to the changing educational needs and backgrounds of their students.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at College of Western Idaho
The age distribution of students at the College of Western Idaho reveals some interesting trends that reflect both the demographic characteristics of the student body and broader educational patterns. The data indicates a significant concentration of students under the age of 24, with those under 18 comprising approximately 44.4% of the total student population. This suggests a strong presence of traditional college-age students, which is consistent with national trends where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school.
The 18 to 21 age bracket also shows impressive numbers, with students aged 18-19 and 20-21 collectively accounting for about 26.2% of the student body. This demographic is crucial as they typically represent the core of undergraduate programs. However, as students age past 24, their numbers begin to decline sharply. For example, students aged 25-29 represent only about 10.2% of the total, indicating that fewer older students are enrolling or persisting in their studies.
Interestingly, there are very few graduate students in the data, with no representation of male graduate students. The absence of graduate-level enrollment could reflect a need for the institution to develop programs that cater to the educational aspirations of older or more experienced learners.
Overall, the data highlights the College of Western Idaho's role as a primary educational institution for younger students, while also pointing to potential gaps in engagement with older demographics and graduate-level offerings. The trends observed may have implications for future program development and outreach strategies aimed at diversifying the student population.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
102 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at College of Western Idaho
The data from College of Western Idaho reveals a notable trend in the enrollment of international undergraduate students over the years. Starting from a mere three international students in both 2013 and 2014, there has been a significant increase in the number of international students, peaking at 105 students in 2022. This growth is indicative of the college's increasing appeal to students from abroad, with the percentage of international students rising from just 0.03% in 2013 to 1.01% in 2022.
The data shows that the institution has made strides in attracting a diverse student body, which can enhance the educational experience for all students by fostering a multicultural environment. The rise in numbers suggests that the college may have implemented effective recruitment strategies or improved its programs to better accommodate international students.
However, it is worth noting that the data for graduate student enrollment is not available, which limits our understanding of the overall international student demographic at the institution. Furthermore, the fluctuations in total undergraduate enrollment numbers, which peaked at 10,580 in 2020, followed by a decline to 9,920 in 2023, may indicate broader trends in higher education amidst changing global circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the increase in international undergraduate enrollment at the College of Western Idaho reflects a growing recognition of the importance of global perspectives in education. As institutions continue to navigate post-pandemic challenges, the ability to attract and retain international students will be crucial for fostering diversity and enhancing academic offerings.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$16,011
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $7,454
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $4,446
- Room and board
- $8,557
Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 4% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$95.4M
Expenses$91.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 15.2 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 191.8 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 216.5 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 217.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Utah State UniversityLogan · 271.2 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 283.3 mi
U.S. News #90
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities surrounding the College of Western Idaho:
-
Whitman College - Ranked 46th in the 2024 US News rankings, Whitman College is a liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on undergraduate research.
-
University of Idaho - With a ranking of 185, the University of Idaho offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is recognized for its commitment to research and community engagement.
-
Washington State University - Ranked 178th, this research university provides a diverse array of degree programs and is known for its vibrant campus life and strong agricultural programs.
-
Gonzaga University - With a ranking of 93, Gonzaga is a private Catholic university located in Spokane, Washington. It is well-regarded for its business, law, and engineering programs.
-
University of Utah - Ranked 115th, the University of Utah is a major research university with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in the fields of health and technology.
-
Reed College - This liberal arts college is ranked 67th and is known for its unique curriculum and emphasis on independent study and critical thinking.
-
University of Oregon - With a ranking of 98, the University of Oregon is renowned for its programs in environmental studies, business, and the arts.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at College of Western Idaho
The crime data from the College of Western Idaho reveals a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents over the years, with significant variations in the rate per 1,000 students. Notably, from 2013 to 2017, the college experienced low rates of crime, with the highest being 0.54 in 2014. This period demonstrated a relatively safe environment for students, as the rates were minimal, indicating effective safety measures or a lower incidence of crime.
However, the years following 2017 show a concerning trend. In 2020, the crime rate surged to 0.32 per 1,000 students, followed by a notable spike in 2023, where it reached 0.71. This increase may warrant further investigation into the underlying causes, such as changes in campus policies, community factors, or external influences like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected social dynamics and safety protocols.
Examining specific offenses, there have been arrests related to gun possession, drug offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. The data suggests that while some years had no reported incidents, the recent uptick in crime rates could reflect a rising concern for student safety. This highlights the need for continuous assessment and enhancement of campus security measures.
Overall, while the College of Western Idaho has maintained relatively low crime rates historically, the recent increase calls for proactive responses to ensure a safe learning environment for students. For further details on crime rate calculations, please refer to: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.