At CWI’s inception in 2007, Boise was the last metropolitan area in the country lacking a community college. In March of that year, the Idaho Legislature appropriated funds for the college. Later that May, a supermajority of voters in Canyon and Ada counties voted to form a community college district. With the monetary support of the Albertson Foundation and the appointment by the Idaho State Board of Education of CWI’s first Board of Trustees, the College of Western Idaho was launched. CWI acquired the programs, personnel, and property of the recently defunct Selland College and officially opened its doors to students at its main campus on what was formerly Boise State University’s West Campus. The College of Western Idaho expands learning and life opportunities, encourages individual advancement, contributes to Idaho’s economic growth, strengthens community prosperity, and develops leaders. By 2040, the College of Western Idaho will be a best-in-class, comprehensive community college that will influence individual advancement and the intellectual and economic prosperity of Western Idaho. By providing a broad range of highly accessible learning opportunities, this Vision will be realized through the College’s Presence, Practice, and Impact. Classes only available on campus. Financial aid available to those who qualify.
Accreditation
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) is accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
