Business at Idaho State University: Helping students rise to the top

14 Nov 2017

“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.” – Thomas Jefferson

Idaho State University (ISU) has been built on a tradition of excellence since 1901, evolving into an elite, student-centered institution that’s globally-desired. The ISU we see today is cutting-edge and Carnegie-classified, producing innovative solutions in the fields of energy, health, nuclear research, teaching, humanities, engineering, technology, bio-science, pharmacy, business, performing and visual arts.

“At the main campus in Pocatello, and at locations in Meridian, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls, ISU offers access to high-quality education in more than 250 programs,” the institution notes. “Over 13,000 students attend ISU, receiving education and training in those programs.”

Promising first-rate academics in unforgettable locations, ISU is an outdoor-lover’s haven, set just a short drive from some of the best-loved recreation hotspots in the US. From Bear Lake to Jackson Hole, Lava Hot Springs to Pebble Creek, Sun Valley to Yellow Stone; ISU is nestled on a landscape that shows nature at its best.

ISU College of Business – Feeding eager corporate leaders and entrepreneurs

In 1978, ISU’s College of Business became the first business-focused school in the state to receive accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Today, the AACSB accredits less than 5 percent of the 16,000 schools offering business degrees in the world. In addition, only 175 of the accredited schools hold both an accounting and business accreditation, ranking ISU’s College of Business in the top 2 percent of business schools worldwide. The delivery of leading academics by well-known industry professionals soon cemented the college’s position on the global business stage, with the college earning a reputation for providing a private education for a public-school price. Now, the college stands as a national pioneer within the corporate disciplines, and the premier example for fellow business schools worldwide.

But what business specializations can you study at Idaho State?

Accounting

With a national average starting salary of US$51,475 and an average job market growth of 13 percent a year, prospects for ISU accounting students look increasingly bright. In addition, the College of Business’s accounting program is separately accredited by the AACBS and hold a certified public accountancy (CPA) exam pass rate of 88 percent for graduate students- which is nearly double the national average pass rate for the exam.

Economics

The college offers three separate program options in Economic Theory, Applied Economics, and Law and Economics (for pre-law students), so there’s something to suit every economically-minded student.

Finance

A finance-based degree represents the ideal route to a career in Commercial Banking, Investments, Stockbroking, Financial Planning, Entrepreneurship, and beyond.

Informatics and Computer Science

Specializing in Business and Health Informatics, graduates of this far-reaching discipline can expect to earn around US$67,420 a year upon graduation.

Management

ISU homes in on three distinct areas of management: Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, and Operations Management.

Marketing

Upon completion of a program built on real-world product selling and intensive market research into local business, ISU’s marketing graduates enter the working world at the top of their professional game.

With cosy class sizes and thriving campus vibe, college students are sure to receive an engaging and personalized experience that delves into business headfirst. The unique Professional Development Program promotes a learning culture that’s unrivalled, with students perfecting interview techniques, as well as résumé construction, high-end business etiquette, and professional expertise. On top of this, the program seeks to place students in valuable Career Path Internship (CPI) positions, letting them get to grips with their prospective career long before they graduate.

“Serving both alumni and students, ISU’s Career Center provides career development, employment connections and education,” the university website states. “Through initiatives like the Career Path Internship program, we give students the hands-on experience and confidence necessary to begin their careers. We also offer students and alumni assistance with resume building, interview skills and all things “career.””

To guarantee students receive a relevant, real-world education, both the college and ISU at large work hard to maintain strong relationships with regional organizations. The Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (CEED), for example, represents an umbrella of four corporations that have long been affiliated with ISU. These innovative service providers offer guidance and advice at low to no costs, empowering business potentials through consultation and expertise for aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as start-up business, existing companies and manufacturing organizations.

“CEED fosters entrepreneurship and economic development in Southeastern Idaho through partnerships with the business community…[it’s] a hub for business activity and serves as a one-stop shop for university [investors] and business startups,” the CEED website notes.

“One of the primary benefits for an entrepreneurship center is the opportunity for students to make real-world connections because the center will promote university, business and community links,” it adds. “Mentoring, coaching and other focused efforts by the community leaders would enhance the traditional university classroom experience.”

All things considered, it’s no wonder that 90 percent of ISU Business graduates find meaningful employment within months of graduation. And with an average starting salary of US$45,500 per year for both full- and part-time roles, the graduate incentives for ISU’s business prospective students are too good to ignore. So, if you’re after an elite, private school education for a public-school price, nowhere provides a better foundation that the College of Business at ISU.

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