Idaho State University

Idaho State University (ISU) is a very much public university operated by the State of Idaho. Enrollment for the semester of 2006 was 12,676 students, including 8,848 undergraduates amongst 12,676; ISU enrolls a large number of older, experienced, talented and non-traditional students who live and work off-campus, and they are capable of financing their own education. In 1963, Idaho State University was given its name, to reflect its new status as a complete four-year public university. The Pond Student Union operates a movie theater, and hosts many student club activities throughout the year. Associated Students of Idaho State University (ASISU) administers the student government. Every year a president, vice president and student senate are elected by the student body to regulate numerous activities. Many of the ISU students take advantage of the availability of the Pocatellos and its proximity to outdoor activities in eastern Idaho. The Bengals of Idaho State University compete in the NCAA Division I, Big Sky Conference and won NCAA national championships in boxing in 1953 and 1957 as Idaho State College. For many years the prestigious Bengals enjoyed rivalries in athletics with the Boise State Broncos and the most renowned University of Idaho Vandals.

Idaho State University received university status in 1927 and was established in 1901 as the Academy of Idaho. It initially emphasized on technological education. It is completely accredited by the prestigious Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. ISU is the states lead institution for education in the health professions and related biological, neurological and physical sciences.

ISU also emphasizes on teacher preparation. At the very beginning ISUs entire campus consisted of only 8 acres which was donated by the Pocatellos citizens that to for their convenience. The Academy of Idaho has gone through five name changes since it was established. In the last ten years its enrollment has increased by 30 percent.

ISU offers 219 degree programs and through its colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering, Health Professions, Pharmacy, It has more than 700 faculty members. Undergraduates also enjoy various international and study abroad opportunities at ISU.

There are 7 prestigious colleges at ISU: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Engineering, the College of Health Professions, the College of Pharmacy, and the College of Technology. Bachelors degrees are offered in a variety of fields across all the colleges. Some of the fields are American studies, biology, international studies, mathematics, management, early childhood education, family and consumer studies, engineering, dental hygiene, and health education. Many fields have certain particular specializations. Associate degrees are offered in fields, such as: art, biology, chemistry, several languages (including Shoshoni), radiographic studies, and sign-language studies.

Peter Salazar