Our Curriculum

The College of Idaho offers two majors in accounting: Accounting 124 (BA) and Accounting 150 (BS).

An Accounting 124 (BA) major is completed in 124 credits and equips students with essential financial reporting and business fundamentals skills. Courses such as Financial and Managerial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting, and Business Law build a strong foundation, while hands-on experience with accounting information systems or data analytics, and a capstone project prepare graduates for successful careers in accounting and finance. Accountants have versatile skills that are essential across a wide range of industries. Graduates can work in corporate accounting, government, nonprofit organizations, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, etc.  

The Accounting 150 (BS) major is completed in 150 credit and is designed for students to meet the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam eligibility requirements for the State of Idaho. This CPA preparation-focused accounting major provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills essential for the CPA exam and professional practice. Core courses in financial reporting, auditing, tax, and managerial accounting, combined with hands-on experience with an accounting internship prepare graduates for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and beyond.

The Anthropology & Sociology major (BA) takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of anthropology and sociology, two fields that share a methodological, theoretical, and historical heritage. Sociology examines social organization, stratification, and interactions, while anthropology focuses on cultural values/practices, beliefs, and shared meaning-making. Both enrich our capacity to critically analyze the social and cultural conditions of human life. 

Our major prepares students for work with culturally and socially diverse peoples in likewise diverse careers.  Our alumni frequently go on to graduate school and/or pursue careers in social work, criminal justice, development, law, medicine, nursing, veterinary school, counseling, library work, creative writing, or service organizations such as the Peace Corps. No matter what path you choose, the knowledge you gain from studying human and cultural conditions in anthropology and sociology will benefit you for the rest of your life.

The science of chemistry lies at the intersection of Biology, Physics, and Mathematics. Thus, exploration of the material encompassed by this scientific discipline has the capacity to prepare students for wide variety of future professional endeavors. The Applied Chemical & Biomedical Sciences (BA) major has been intentionally crafted to allow the course of study to be tuned to compliment the specific academic or professional goals of the student.

The primary purpose of the Art (BA) major is to foster creativity, critical thinking, and an understanding of the practice and history of the visual arts. We seek to help students develop visual literacy, problem-solving abilities, and technical skills that will enable them to confidently explore possible avenues for creative expression in the visual arts.

Art majors can pursue careers in a variety of fields. Those interested in fine art may go on to graduate programs that confer a Master of Fine Arts degree. Students focusing on art history or graphic design often find rewarding careers in museum work or the applied arts. The College’s curriculum makes it easy for those interested in a career in the applied arts to complement their studies with a business minor, while those seeking to teach art can complete their certification requirement through the College’s Department of Education.

The Biochemistry major is an interdisciplinary program with foundational studies in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Mathematics.  This major is ideal for students with interest in pursuing graduate studies in biochemistry or related fields such as drug development; pursuing careers or graduate studies in medical, dental, veterinary, or related fields; or pursuing a career in research or laboratory work.

Our alumni include the co-discoverer of vitamin B12 and many successful doctors, physician assistants/associates (PAs), nurses, dentists, physical therapists, veterinarians, pharmacists, researchers, botanists, zoologists, professors, and scientists. Graduates enjoy a high placement rate into graduate school, and many undergraduates get a head start on their research careers through grant-funded faculty-student research programs such as INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) and SWITCH (Southwest Idaho: The Comprehensive Herbaria).

The College of Idaho offers a BA (Bachelor of Arts) and a BS (Bachelor of Science) in Biology.  Our Biology major offers a research-focused curriculum taught by faculty who are committed to mentoring and engaging students in the process and interpretation of science. Consistent with the liberal arts tradition, our faculty's objectives are to give students a strong foundation in the natural and biological sciences.  

Through our BA curriculum, we aim to prepare students for science-based careers—including medical, dental, veterinary, or related professional pursuits like careers in wildlife, fisheries, and plant biology.  Ultimately, the major is designed to enhance student appreciation and understanding of life on earth.

Through our BS curriculum, we aim to prepare students for science-based careers—including careers in research and laboratory work, plant and wildlife management, conservation, and agriculture, as well as medical, dental, veterinary, or related professional pursuits—and to enhance their appreciation and understanding of life on earth. The Bachelor of Science degree is excellent preparation for post-graduate studies (i.e., M.S., Ph.D., and M.D.).

Our alumni include the co-discoverer of vitamin B12 and many successful doctors, physician assistants/associates (PAs), nurses, dentists, physical therapists, veterinarians, pharmacists, researchers, botanists, zoologists, professors, and scientists. Graduates enjoy a high placement rate into graduate school, and many undergraduates get a head start on their research careers through grant-funded faculty-student research programs such as INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) and SWITCH (Southwest Idaho: The Comprehensive Herbaria).

The College of Idaho’s Biomedical Science major is designed for students interested in careers in health professions, such as doctors, physician assistants/associates (PAs), dentists, physical therapists, optometrists and more as well as students interested in research in biomedical sciences.

Our alumni include many successful doctors, PAs, nurses, dentists, physical therapists, veterinarians, pharmacists, researchers, botanists, zoologists, professors, and scientists. Graduates enjoy a high placement rate into graduate school, and many undergraduates get a head start on their research careers through grant-funded faculty-student research programs such as INBRE (IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) and SWITCH (Southwest Idaho: The Comprehensive Herbaria).

Our Business Administration major offers a comprehensive education in core areas, such as management, finance, marketing, and accounting, preparing students for diverse careers in today’s dynamic economy. Through hands-on projects, case studies, and an internship, students gain practical skills in strategic business practices. Graduates emerge ready to excel in corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial roles, equipped with the critical thinking and adaptability needed for success across industries. 

This major prepares students to excel across diverse and evolving business landscapes and offers the following benefits: 

• Broad Career Flexibility: A Business Administration degree provides diverse career options, including roles in management, marketing, human resources, operations, and entrepreneurship. 
• Market Demand: Graduates with business expertise are consistently sought by employers, providing flexibility to find job opportunities in multiple sectors. 
• Essential Management Skills: Students gain management skills that enable them to coordinate teams, motivate employees, and oversee projects effectively. 
• Versatile Skill Set: Business Administration majors develop a well-rounded skill set, including accounting fundamentals, decision-making, and problem-solving, that can be applied across various fields. 
• Real-World Application: Incorporating an internship, case studies, and projects, provides practical experience that enhances students' marketability and prepares them for real-world challenges.

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry major offers study in the core areas of general, analytical, organic and physical chemistry as well as further study in mathematics and physics. The major is designed for students with a serious interest in a rigorous and challenging program, especially for those students who plan to continue to medical, dental and veterinary school and PhD and Masters programs.

Chemistry majors are encouraged to join faculty-led research teams involved in the analysis of bioactive compounds, toxicity studies, chemical synthesis, computer simulations, chemical kinetics, and electrochemical measurements in biological systems. Or, pursue an independent study project in chemistry.  Whatever path you choose, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with some of the latest technology used in chemistry labs, including an infrared spectroscope, gas chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer.

The study of communication is at least as old as written language itself. The first "scholar" of communication is also the first named historical author, the ancient Mesopotamian priestess, princess, and poet Enheduanna. As a vibrant component of a liberal arts education—since the inclusion of "rhetoric" in the trivium of subjects establishing classical Greek education—the study of communication has changed over the centuries. Today, students engage communicative inquiry as a method of developing the portable skills that will serve them in their collegiate studies and beyond. Through examining the collaborative construction and negotiation of meaning, between self and others, as it occurs within cultural contexts, students who earn a major in Communication will be able to construct effective messages in oral and written forms, as well as engage in collaborative work as interdependent group members, while adjusting their communicative strategies to account for various audiences, contexts, and diverse organizations and cultures in which they will advocate.

Students of communication also have the opportunity to take their skills and put them into use immediately, as part of their every-day lives, but also in more applied and specialized contexts, such as working for the student newspaper or engaging in intercollegiate debate tournaments with the award-winning Howling Yotes.

The Computer Science-Mathematics major prepares students for a broad variety of careers and for graduate study. Work in computer science includes software development and design, research in solving problems in computing (including data storage, networking, retrieval, organization, validation, and so on), and research into new ways of using computing devices (computer vision, robotics, machine learning, accessibility studies, etc.). Computer science is one of the most rapidly expanding and changing fields of scientific inquiry. Preparation for work in this field is thus inherently interdisciplinary, requiring a strong mathematical background. The problem-solving capabilities acquired in the Computer Science-Mathematics major are of wide utility in many fields of study, including careers directly and not directly connected to computer science.

The Criminology major offers a distinctly liberal arts approach to understanding crime, its causes, and our responses to it from multiple disciplinary perspectives. Students study crime data and trends, how criminal justice systems function, and theories of crime and punishment. Beyond the shared core courses, students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of criminological topics across various disciplines. The strong analytical, research, and communication skills students develop in this major will prepare them for both graduate school as well as careers in a diverse range of fields, including law, advocacy, criminal justice, social service, and public policy.

Students pursuing a Digital Marketing major are introduced to essential concepts in business, marketing, and digital strategies related to search, social, and content creation. Online interactions are the leading force that drives organizations to get their message out to consumers. The courses in this major meet the rapidly shifting digital landscape in today's internet-driven world. The Digital Marketing major provides a combination of business and digital courses focused on this emerging area within the marketing field. The benefits of a Digital Marketing degree, include: 

• Demand for Digital Marketers: With businesses increasingly relying on digital platforms, the need for skilled digital marketers is increasing. Graduates in this field enter a thriving job market with good earning potential and a vast range of career options. 
• Comprehensive Skillset: The program provides a thorough foundation in essential areas like content strategy, social media, analytics, email, and digital advertising. Students graduate with versatile, in-demand skills that employers prioritize. 
• Real-World Experience: Included are practical, hands-on projects, simulations and an internship, giving students direct experience with real-world campaigns and tools. 
• Career Flexibility and Growth Opportunities: Digital marketing skills are transferable across industries. This degree equips students for roles in small or large businesses, advertising agencies, non-profits, and beyond, allowing students to shape their career path in various directions. 
• Staying Current in a Fast-Paced Field: Digital marketing is constantly evolving. This program provides up-to-date knowledge and critical thinking skills to adapt to changes, helping you stay ahead in this dynamic industry and maintain a competitive edge over time.

The College of Idaho offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in: 

• Elementary Teaching, which is designed for students who wish to earn teacher certification for elementary grades K-8; and
• Secondary Teaching programs in Biology, English Language Arts, History, Mathematics, and Music, which are designed for students who wish to earn teacher certification for secondary grades 6-12 in these areas.

Our four-year teaching certification program emphasizes preparing educators for Idaho schools. It encompasses undergraduate study toward completion of a BA degree and an internship semester of student teaching to complete remaining licensure requirements.

The College of Idaho has a proud tradition of producing quality educators. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in teaching and school administration, earning countless awards, grants, and recognition for their outstanding work as educators in Idaho and around the world. Education majors may also go on to earn graduate and doctoral degrees and teach at the college level.

Ours is an age when both non-human and human well-being depend on reframing conventional questions and developing ourselves as agents of intellectual change. Through the Environmental Studies major, we seek to understand the complex and influential interactions between the conceptual and the material aspects of human-environment relations. Students majoring in Environmental Studies and planning to go on to professional or graduate school are advised to pursue a minor, specialization or double major in an accompanying, complementary field of study, such as conservation biology, geography and geoscience, history, law, philosophy, international political economy, or political economy.

Environmental Studies prepares skilled critical thinkers who are ready to provide leadership in a variety of career fields. Education, public policy, resource management, public health, public administration, international development, non-profit work, and the sciences are popular choices for our graduates. Many alumni also go on to graduate school to study environmental law and policy, economics, environmental literature, plant and animal biology, and other related sciences.

The College of Idaho offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Exercise Science, which use exercise as the lens to analyze human performance and human health.

Through the Bachelor of Art degree in Exercise Science, students will be challenged to apply analytical, biological, chemical and physical principles to health and human performance. Students first take introductory biology, human anatomy and physiology, and health and wellness courses to build fundamental knowledge of the human body before moving into exercise-specific coursework that include exercise physiology and principles in biomechanics. Graduates of the Exercise Science program will understand how the structure and function of the human body respond to different exercise stimuli, appreciate the factors important for wellness as a basis for personal choice, be competent in data collection and analysis, and engage in experiential learning opportunities such as collaborative research or substantive internships.  The program prepares students for careers in the health professions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, athletic training, physician's assistant, as well as cardiac rehab, exercise physiology, biomedical research, health promotion and education, coaching, personal fitness, sports psychology, motor development, and teaching. 

The Bachelor of Science program emphasizes the application of analytical, biological, chemical, and physical principles to understand the human body’s response to exercise. Students begin with foundational coursework in biology, human anatomy and physiology, and health and wellness to develop a strong understanding of human biology. They then progress to more specialized subjects in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and related fields. 

Graduates of the Exercise Science program will possess a comprehensive understanding of how the structure and function of the human body adapt to various exercise stimuli, recognize key factors influencing wellness, and develop proficiency in data collection and analysis. The program also includes opportunities for experiential learning, such as collaborative research or internships, allowing students to gain practical experience in the field. 

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science prepares students for careers in a wide range of health and human performance professions, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, athletic training, physician's assistant roles, cardiac rehabilitation, exercise physiology, biomedical research, health promotion, education, sports psychology, coaching, personal fitness, motor development, and teaching. The program’s rigorous scientific focus equips graduates with the technical knowledge and research skills necessary for success in these dynamic and interdisciplinary fields.

The Finance major provides an understanding of financial markets, investment analysis, and corporate finance principles. Coursework covers essential topics like risk management, financial modeling, portfolio analysis, and capital budgeting. Through hands-on projects and an internship, students gain practical skills in quantitative analysis and strategic financial decision-making. The program emphasizes ethical financial practices and adaptability, preparing graduates for diverse careers in areas such as investment banking, corporate finance, wealth management, and financial consulting. This major equips students with the expertise needed to thrive in today’s dynamic financial landscape.

You will find history isn't contained simply in the pages of a textbook at The College of Idaho. Our engaging faculty breathe life into the events that have shaped human history, and you will find plenty of opportunities to interact with history first-hand from visiting historically significant sites overseas to performing in-depth historical research. Our History majors graduate with a knowledge of historical methodology and research, as well as a foundation in the histories of at least four regions of the world. The study of history is rewarding for students with any program of study but is particularly suited to students pursuing careers in business, law, teaching, health sciences, media, or the arts and humanities, where an understanding of human experience is particularly valuable.

International Affairs investigates the political, economic, and social relations between countries and within countries. As an interdisciplinary program of study, course topics span political philosophy, political economy, comparative studies, economic development, international law, history, geography, and regional studies. It cultivates transferable skills in research, analysis, data interpretation, evidenced-based argumentation, policy evaluation, collective decision-making, cultural awareness, and global literacy. Developing future leaders aiming to contribute to the international community, an International Affairs Major helps prepare students for post-graduate professional activity in fields such as public service, law, public policy, diplomacy, political activism, journalism, economic development, international education, non-government organizations, and internationally-oriented careers in the private sector.

The Literature and Creative Writing major offers study in the areas of American, British, and postcolonial literature and creative writing (poetry, fiction, and nonfiction).  The major is designed for anyone interested in literature and writing and prepares one for a wide variety of careers and graduate programs, including but not limited to writing, editing, teaching, publishing, journalism, law, marketing, public relations, and the fine arts.

For centuries, mathematics has given its students a lifetime of intellectual excitement, deep creative satisfaction, mental acuity and agility, and appreciation of an austere and elegant beauty. More than anything else, the study of mathematics enhances the student's power of thinking. Mathematics majors at The College of Idaho learn to think, both deeply and creatively, about a wide range of important and interesting topics and areas of mathematical inquiry.

Our Mathematics majors learn the fundamental principles of mathematical thought as they progress through the Mathematics Core. They also begin to gain an understanding of the relevance and utility of mathematics to, and interconnectedness with, other disciplines of the liberal arts and the world as a whole. This program of study is completed with choices from a broad selection of proof-based courses. The curriculum reflects the intellectual sweep of undergraduate mathematics and the applied, interdisciplinary sensibilities of the Department of Mathematics and Physical Sciences.

Since much mathematical activity resembles a kind of logical problem-solving, and since this activity is such excellent mental training, mathematics is an excellent major field of study for many exciting and interesting careers. Recent graduates have found careers in medicine, finance, software development, education, various engineering fields, and have gone on to graduate study in mathematics, physics, astronomy, computer science, and engineering, among others.  

The Music major helps students improve their musicianship while providing an in-depth study of music and its place in culture. Students also gain professional knowledge to help them in careers or graduate school related to digital visual and audio production and the larger music industry.

Studying music at the College produces graduates who are able to think deeply about music and perform at a high level. The College has produced an Academy Award-winning composer and many other successful musicians. Professional performance, musical theatre, teaching, writing, composing, conducting and producing are common careers for our graduates, though a College of Idaho music degree prepares its holder to succeed in a wide variety of work environments.

H2: Groups & Ensembles

Students at The College of Idaho also have access to attend or participate in dozens of professional-level musical performances every school year. Student performance opportunities include opera and musical theatre productions.  Below is a list of the groups and ensembles available on campus.  For more information, please click the heading above the group or ensemble you are interested in and you'll be connected to an appropriate person.

The Philosophy major invites and provokes students to examine themselves and the world in more comprehensive ways, as well as to look at the most fundamental aspects of human reasoning, discourse, and experience. In addition to the methodological and historical core of the program, majors have the flexibility to pursue their interests in ethics, religion, science, mind, and the environment, among other areas. The major culminates in a senior project, in which students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on a topic of their interest.

The Philosophy major prepares students for a range of professional pursuits and can also serve as an excellent complement to other majors at the College. Recent graduates have gone on to graduate school in a variety of fields, medical school, law school, the non-profit sector, teaching, and more.

The Physics-Mathematics major provides an excellent basis for many post-college paths, including teaching, engineering, industry or tech-related business fields, and graduate study in physics, astronomy, and engineering. Our majors enjoy a wide variety of after-college options because they undergo training to become independent problem solvers who utilize both physics and mathematics and who can effectively communicate their understanding.

Political economy involves analyzing and explaining the ways in which government affects the allocation of scarce resources in society through public policies and the ways the economic system affects the policies created by government. In this program, students are required to develop critical reasoning skills while recognizing the importance of economic, political, and philosophical principles in the process of developing a better understanding of how Western and non-Western societies interact with each other and provide for their material well-being. 

Political economy is an excellent field for students interested in how society organizes itself through government, the market, and non-governmental actors. It is a fine complement for programs that are affected by political economic forces both domestically and globally.

A Political Economy major helps prepare students for post-graduate professional activity in fields such as public service, law, public policy, diplomacy, political activism, journalism, economic development, education, non-government organizations, and a variety of careers in the private sector.

The Psychological Science major is designed for students to gain foundational knowledge and empirical skills and then progress to more advanced work. Students also experience growth in social and personal skills such as teamwork, ethical and social responsibility, self-regulation, and project management. Psychological Science majors complete a thesis project in their graduating year. Career exploration is an essential part of the psychology programs; students examine how to enter the workforce directly after graduation and how to continue their education through graduate and professional training. The Psychological Science major emphasizes depth in empirical knowledge and skills and requires a psychology research thesis project.

A psychology major enables students to acquire skills valued in a wide range of professions. For example, an understanding of psychology can help a business owner know how to deal with customer complaints, help teachers provide classroom experiences that maximize learning, train medical personnel to understand ways to help patients comply with prescriptive advice, and provide actors and writers with a better understanding of the foibles of human (mis)behavior.  Additionally, our graduates have pursued graduate education in psychology as well as careers in research or applied psychology. 

The Psychology major is designed for students to gain foundational knowledge and empirical skills and then progress to more advanced work. Students also experience growth in social and personal skills such as teamwork, ethical and social responsibility, self-regulation, and project management. Psychology majors complete a thesis project in their graduating year. Career exploration is an essential part of the psychology programs; students examine how to enter the workforce directly after graduation and how to continue their education through graduate and professional training. The Psychology major emphasizes student choice in survey courses and focuses on an applied thesis experience.

A psychology major enables students to acquire skills valued in a wide range of professions. For example, an understanding of psychology can help a business owner know how to deal with customer complaints, help teachers provide classroom experiences that maximize learning, train medical personnel to understand ways to help patients comply with prescriptive advice, and provide actors and writers with a better understanding of the foibles of human (mis)behavior.  Additionally, our graduates have pursued graduate education in psychology as well as careers in research or applied psychology.

A Spanish major develops student proficiency in the language and an understanding of cultures in Spanish-speaking societies. Students develop advanced language skills in speaking, understanding, writing, and reading, and learn about the history, literature, and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Understanding Spanish language and Spanish-speaking cultures offers students many professional opportunities in today’s global society. Many students choose to double major with Spanish and another discipline, because a Spanish major helps to prepare students for success in a variety of career fields and future endeavors: graduate studies, education, diplomacy, business, social work, public service, law, journalism, and health and mental health professions.

A degree in Spanish Language and Business prepares students for a range of careers in local businesses, international corporations, government agencies, non-profits, or any organization needing bilingual skills and knowledge of Spanish-speaking markets. Through this program, students benefit from:

• Career Flexibility: Graduates can work in roles like international business, finance, marketing, consulting, or human resources, or within NGOs, government agencies, or non-profits where bilingual skills are desired. 
• Cultural Insight: An understanding of the language and culture allows graduates to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking clients, partners, and colleagues. 
• Competitive Advantage: Bilingual skills in business enhance job prospects in competitive fields, especially in the U.S., where the Spanish-speaking market is one of the fastest-growing consumer groups.
• Experiential Learning: Students complete a study aboard study program or internship to provide real-world immersion experience.

The Theatre major is a generalist degree for the student who wants a broad and flexible theatre education experience. Theatre at The College of Idaho aims to provide many opportunities for students to use theatre as an instrument for personal, intellectual, social, and creative development.

Students are actively involved in making theatre at The College of Idaho by participating in mainstage productions ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary plays to musical theatre. Scarlet Masque, a student theatre organization on campus, provides additional opportunities to hone your theatrical skills. Our comprehensive curriculum includes classes in acting, stagecraft, directing, theatre history, stage makeup, stage combat, and applied theatre (lighting, costuming, and scenery practicum). All the while, students receive individual mentoring from professors who work professionally as actors, directors, and theatrical designers.