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Boise State named one of the most innovative universities in the country by U.S. News and World Report

A person stands in front of a projected graphic

College of Engineering Advanced Nanomaterials and Manufacturing Laboratory/Tissue Engineering, Graduate Research Assistant Mone’t Sawyer projected samples of her research in The Stein Luminary.

Boise State University has once again been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the most innovative universities in the nation. Boise State is the only Idaho institution and one of only three in the entire Northwest to be named to the list.

“It is exciting to be recognized for the incredible innovation that makes a positive difference across our state and the world,” said Dr. Marlene Tromp, Boise State president. “Our students, faculty and alumni pride themselves on being bold, pathbreaking thinkers and actors all across the academic and professional landscape. I am so proud that our work has been recognized with this achievement.”

Boise State is tied for No. 53 on the 2025 list, ranking higher than Columbia University, Northwestern University and Colorado School of Mines, among others.  The university previously received the designation in both 2019 and 2022. The U.S. News and World Report rankings are compiled based on a survey sent to administrators at peer institutions across the country.

“Our presence on the national and international stage demonstrates the remarkable impact of our research, teaching, and community engagement and has earned us this honor,” Tromp said. “Blue Turf Thinking has given us a rocketship trajectory, and we will continue to lead for the benefit of our students, our state and the nation.”

Boise State is leading the way in the semiconductor industry, snow science, the environment, student access and success and more. Learn more about these innovative programs in the stories linked on this page or on the Innovation website.