The Top 10 Best Colleges in Boise for Tech Enthusiasts in 2024

Boise is straight up blowing up as a major tech hotspot! With giants like Micron and DJI setting up shop, it's no surprise the computer and IT job market is set to spike by 16.7% by 2024.

Getting a solid tech education is crucial if you want to get in on the action. We scoped out the colleges based on cutting-edge programs, industry connections, resources, and how well they set you up for scoring that dream gig.

The keys to a fire tech education are things like:

• Latest skills: Programs teaching the latest skills companies are thirsting for (cybersecurity, data science, AI, you name it)
• Industry connections: Hooking you up with dope internships and job help at local tech titans
• State-of-the-art facilities: Sick facilities decked out with all the latest gear and software
• Experienced professors: Professors who've actually worked in the field and have killer industry connects

As Patricia Martin from the University of Idaho's Boise Computer Science program put it, "Our degree gives you the technical chops and real-world experience to crush it in Boise's insane tech scene." So if you're looking to level up your career, peep the top colleges we ranked that'll help you land that fat tech job in Boise.

Boise State University is where it's at for anyone who's hyped about tech! The place is loaded with dope programs to get you up to speed for the digital world.

Check this out - they offer a Certificate in Applied Computing, Systems and Network that's 100% online, flexible AF, and even ideal for those without an IT background.

It's like a crash course into the cybersecurity realm, prepping you for roles like Cyber Defense Analyst or Cyber Security Analyst.

Boise State also has a ton of Career Training Programs in partnership with ed2go, covering everything from coding and web dev to IT certifications.

You can level up your skills or straight-up transition into a new career field. Plus, they even offer programs to help you ace industry-recognized certs like Lean Six Sigma or PMP.

If you're more into the traditional degree route, they've got you covered too.

Their Engineering programs are no joke, with options like Bachelor's in Computer Science, Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, and more.

And the tuition fees are surprisingly affordable, with some programs costing around $11-14 lakh for the first year.

The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is the place to be for young tech geeks in 2024! Their Career & Technical Education division has a crazy amount of programs and degrees that'll turn you into a legit tech pro.

They've also got shorter certifications to get you job-ready in fields like CompTIA, Cisco, and Cloud Computing.

But what really makes CWI stand out is their dedication to hands-on learning.

Their campus is decked out with specialized labs for everything from networking to computer forensics and cybersecurity, so you can get your hands dirty with the latest tech.

And let's not forget about the support services that'll have your back every step of the way – career counseling, tutoring, you name it.

CWI is seriously setting you up for success in the tech world.

Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is straight-up killin' it for us tech geeks! In 2024, they're revamping their Computer Science program with the sickest specializations in Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence.

These fields are in crazy high demand, so you already know NNU's setting us up for success in this tech-driven world.

But it gets better - NNU has this insane Idaho Computer Science Research Lab where students get to work on some mind-blowing projects.

We're talking about developing machine learning algorithms for predictive analytics and exploring the ethical side of emerging tech. They scored a massive $1.2 million grant in 2024 to fund research on how technology and healthcare can team up.

Talk about cutting-edge stuff!

Here's the real kicker, though - NNU's got some serious connections in the industry. They're partnered up with tech titans like Micron Technology and Hewlett-Packard, hooking students up with internships and real-world project experience.

And according to a recent survey, a whopping 92% of NNU's tech grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. That's just nuts! Plus, their collab with the Boise Valley Economic Partnership ensures their curriculum is always on point with the region's workforce needs.

As one NNU alum, Daniel Williams, put it, "The university's industry connections and hands-on learning approach prepared me for a seamless transition into the tech workforce." Can't argue with that!

The University of Idaho in Boise is seriously impressive when it comes to tech education. In 2024, they're taking things to a whole new level, offering a wide range of programs to prep you for the future of technology.

Their Career and Technical Education options are extensive, covering everything from cybersecurity to web development.

One of the standout programs is the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, which dives deep into coding, software development, and solving complex problems with computers.

But that's not all – they've also got an excellent Bachelor of Science in Cyber-Physical Systems Engineering that combines computing, engineering, and data analysis into one powerful package.

The Boise campus is decked out with cutting-edge facilities that are truly impressive.

We're talking about the Integrated Research and Innovation Center (IRIC), a high-tech research hub with advanced computing labs and collaborative workspaces.

There's also the Boise Computer Science Laboratory, stocked with the latest hardware and software for hands-on learning and experimentation. And it's worth mentioning the Cybersecurity Lab, where you can develop and test secure systems and networks like a pro.

Additionally, the University of Idaho has teamed up with some of Boise's biggest tech players, opening doors to internships and collaborations that'll give you a serious edge in the industry.

We're talking about partnerships with giants like Micron Technology, Inc. for semiconductor design and manufacturing, Boise Coding Dojo for mentorship and career guidance, and the Boise Valley Economic Partnership (BVEP) for promoting economic growth and tech innovation in the region.

As Boise continues to establish itself as a major tech hotspot, the University of Idaho is leading the charge in shaping the next generation of tech superstars.

With their cutting-edge programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections, you'll be part of a vibrant community that's pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology.

If you're looking to level up your coding skills and score that sick developer gig, Boise CodeWorks is where it's at.

These guys are like the kings of coding bootcamps in Boise. Their immersive full-stack and frontend programs will have you slinging code like a pro in no time.

The instructors at BCW are straight-up OGs in the dev world, sharing their secrets and industry hacks to make sure you're ready for the real deal.

They keep it real with hands-on projects, collaborative sessions, and one-on-one mentoring to level up your skills. Plus, their curriculum is stacked with all the latest tech like JavaScript, React, Node.js, databases, and deployment strategies.

Don't just take my word for it, though.

BCW has a killer track record with 85% of their grads landing dope tech jobs within six months of graduating. We're talking companies like Micron Technology, Paylocity, and TSheets scooping up their alumni.

One recent grad even said,

"The intense curriculum and amazing instructors at Boise CodeWorks helped me transition smoothly from a total noob to a legit software engineer."

Sounds like a win to me!

These guys are all about options.

They've got full-time, part-time, and online programs to fit your schedule, whether you're a 9-5 warrior or a night owl coder.

If you're serious about breaking into the tech world, Boise CodeWorks is definitely the move. Trust me, your future coding self will thank you later.

New Horizons in Boise is where it's at for all you tech geeks looking to level up in 2024. Their course catalog is stacked with the hottest certs and programs that'll have you coding like a pro and securing the bag in no time!

• Comprehensive courses: They've got the whole shebang covered - from AWS and Azure cloud certifications to ethical hacking and cybersecurity badging.
• Specialized programs: And if you're more into the dev grind, they've got full-stack web dev, Python, and Java courses that'll turn you into a coding machine.

New Horizons gets that life can be hectic, so they've got options for in-person classes, live online sessions, or self-paced e-learning modules.

That way, you can fit your tech education around your schedule and not the other way around.

And once you're all certified and skilled up, their career services crew has got your back.

They'll help you polish that resume, prep for interviews, and hook you up with their network of industry connections. Last year, a whopping 92% of their tech grads landed jobs within 6 months of finishing their programs.

Talk about a slam dunk!

So if you're ready to make moves in the tech world, New Horizons Boise is the spot to be in 2024. Trust me, your future self will be thanking you.

Idaho State University's Meridian campus is where it's at if you're looking to level up your skills in the digital realm. They've got a crazy range of tech-focused programs that'll let you specialize in whatever gets your circuits firing.

Check this out: their Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, launching in Fall 2024, is a total game-changer.

It's all about mastering the art of coding, software development, and staying ahead of the cybersecurity curve.

That's not all! Meridian is packing some seriously impressive facilities that'll make you feel like you're living in the future.

We're talking cutting-edge computer labs loaded with the latest tech toys, giving you the perfect playground to put your skills to the test through hands-on projects and simulations.

And if cybersecurity is your jam, they've got a dedicated Cybersecurity Research Center where you can team up with professors and dive into the deep end of digital defense.

The real kicker, though – ISU has some major league connections with tech giants like Micron Technology, HP Inc., and Clearwater Analytics.

That means internship opportunities galore, giving you a chance to get your feet wet in the real world before you even graduate. Plus, with an Advisory Board stacked with industry pros, you know the curriculum is always staying fresh and relevant to what employers are looking for.

If you're on the hunt for the ultimate tech education in Boise, Stevens-Henager College is where it's at. This place is straight fire for anyone obsessed with coding, cybersecurity, and all things techie.

They've got a solid lineup of degrees and certs that'll make you a total boss in the industry.

First off, they've got this killer Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Networking that'll turn you into a cybersecurity ninja.

We're talking ethical hacking, network defense, risk management - the whole nine yards. If that's not your vibe, no sweat! They've also got dope programs in areas like software development, programming languages, and computer systems management.

But here's the real kicker - Stevens-Henager College gives you options.

You can go the online route and study at your own pace, or hit up the campus for that classic college experience. And most of their tech students actually prefer the online grind.

Gotta love that flexibility, right?

Once you're all graduated and ready to take on the world, Stevens-Henager has your back with their killer career services and alumni network.

They'll hook you up with resume tips, interview prep, and job search strategies tailored to the tech scene. Plus, you'll have access to a network of industry pros who've been there, done that.

Last year, a whopping 87% of their tech grads landed jobs within six months. Talk about a solid return on investment!

The College of Idaho is a spot for anyone who's into tech and wants to learn it all - coding, data, biology, you name it.

It's like the liberal arts college in Idaho, but they're not stuck in the past. They mix tech into every program, so you graduate ready to crush it in the job market.

With a 11:1 student-teacher ratio, you get that personalized learning experience.

Classes average around 16 students, so it's super chill and hands-on. The profs really get to know you, give you mentorship, and make sure you're set up for success.

Plus, they have advisors dedicated to helping you map out your career goals.

The College of Idaho offers some seriously cool interdisciplinary tech programs like:

• Computer Science: You'll get the full rundown on programming, algorithms, data structures, and everything you need to be a software engineering beast.
• Data Analytics: Master the art of data mining, visualization, and predictive modeling - essential skills for making data-driven decisions in any industry.
• Computational Biology: This unique program blends biology, computer science, and math to prepare you for cutting-edge research.

It's not just theory either.

The college has partnerships with tech giants like Micron Technology and Hewlett-Packard, so you can score internships and get real-world experience.

And if research is your thing, check out their Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship where you can work alongside professors on cool projects and level up your problem-solving skills.

Alright, let's talk about Brown Mackie College Boise. It's a private college that offers 11 undergrad majors, with the top ones being Medical/Clinical Assistant, Occupational Therapist Assistant, and Surgical Technology.

The school has a solid lineup of tech-focused programs like Computer Support Specialist, Legal Assistant/Paralegal, and Criminal Justice. They're gearing students up for some in-demand careers. The tuition is around $11,952, which isn't too shabby.

A good chunk of students receive financial aid – 79% get grants and 81% get loans. So, money shouldn't be a major roadblock. Now, let's talk about the student experience.

The campus is pretty small, with only 74 students enrolled in 2017. But that means you get a more personalized learning environment. Plus, the faculty seems dedicated, with a solid student-to-instructor ratio. The downside? The graduation rate could be better.

Only 42% of students graduate within six years. But if you put in the work, you can definitely make it happen. Overall, Brown Mackie College Boise is a decent option for those looking to gain practical skills in fields like healthcare, legal, and technology.

The support system seems solid, and the connections to local industries could pay off big time when it comes to landing internships and jobs after graduation.

Ranking the sickest colleges in Boise for techies like us isn't easy, but we have a legit methodology that covers all the crucial details.

Here's how we're sizing up these schools:

• Academic firepower (35%): We're scoping out the tech programs, curriculums, hands-on learning, and industry links from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics and the colleges themselves. Gotta make sure the academics are on point.
• Student success (25%): Checking those grad rates, job placements, career support, and student resources specifically for techies. The information comes straight from the colleges and sites like PayScale. Can't let our peeps fall through the cracks.
• Professors who know their stuff (20%): We're checking the faculty's credentials, research work, and industry experience in tech fields. College profiles, faculty bios, and databases like Google Scholar are our go-to sources.
• Cutting-edge resources (15%): Top-notch tech labs, maker spaces, and facilities are a must. We're verifying these facilities against college claims and student reviews to make sure they're legit.
• Affordability (5%): Cost matters. We're factoring in tuition, fees, and financial aid options for techies using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and college aid offices.

Our team has been working hard, gathering information from all these credible sources to give you the facts on Boise's tech education scene.

With this well-rounded approach, you can trust our rankings to point you in the right direction for scoring that tech degree.