58 History
North Idaho College was first known as Coeur d’Alene Junior College, a private school that was started in 1933 and operated for six years. The state legislature passed the Junior College Act in January 1939, which permitted qualified areas to establish junior college districts by a vote of eligible electors. Coeur d’Alene Junior College became North Idaho Junior College in June of 1939. On July 31, 1971, the college changed its name to North Idaho College. NIC’s service area is the Idaho Panhandle, which includes Kootenai, Benewah, Bonner, Shoshone, and Boundary Counties.
Open-Door Policy
NIC subscribes to the philosophy of the comprehensive community college, including an “open-door” admissions policy. To truly reflect its role as a community college, NIC accepts the fundamental responsibility to meet the varying needs of individuals with widely divergent interests and abilities. At the same time, NIC seeks to respond to the needs of area businesses, industries, and governmental agencies by preparing competent, trained employees.
The commitment to an open-door admissions policy is defined as providing all eligible students with access to appropriate educational offerings at the college. NIC enrolls students seeking a post-secondary education, but reserves the right to guide students into the courses and programs that will enhance their opportunities for success.
Certain designated courses of study have special requirements for admission. The college tests and evaluates entering students to place them in the appropriate level courses.