Idaho State University (ISU) is a public research university in Pocatello, Idaho. Founded 1901 as the Academy of Idaho, ISU offers more than 280 programs at its main campus and at locations in Meridian, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls. The university has a Carnegie classification of "Doctoral/Professional: Research University" and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. ISU is the state's designated lead institution in health professions and medical education. The university has a faculty of more than 1,000 and a student body of over 12,000, including 3,000 graduate students. The university's sports teams are called the Bengals and compete in the Big Sky Conference.