Colleges and Universities in Montana: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you exploring higher education options in Montana? Known as "Big Sky Country," Montana offers a diverse range of colleges and universities, from private four-year institutions to public universities and two-year community colleges. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you find the right fit.
Montana's Higher Education Landscape
Montana boasts two public university systems: the Montana State University System and the University of Montana System. In addition to these, there are several private schools and tribal community colleges. Montana's landscape, with attractions like Glacier National Park and the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, fosters a unique environment for students. The state's largest industry is agriculture, with tourism being the fastest-growing sector.
Degree Completion Trends
It's worth noting that the completion of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees at Montana's colleges and universities has seen a decline over the past five years. In 2024, Montana's institutions awarded 9,484 degrees.
Featured Colleges and Universities
Here is a detailed look at some of Montana's prominent colleges and universities, categorized by type:
Four-Year Private Colleges and Universities
These institutions offer a range of undergraduate programs and provide a personalized learning environment. Approximately 7,480 undergraduate students are enrolled in these schools.
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Carroll College: Located in Helena. In 2024, 249 bachelor's degrees were completed.
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Avg Net Price: $14,618
- Avg GPA: 3.6
- Avg ACT: 22
- Avg SAT: 1170
Rocky Mountain College: Located in Billings. In 2024, 171 bachelor's degrees were completed, along with 68 master's degrees and 35 doctoral degrees.
University of Providence: Located in Great Falls. In 2024, 161 bachelor's degrees, 1 associate degree, and 73 master's degrees were completed.
- Acceptance Rate: 64%
- Avg Net Price: $25,023
- Avg GPA: 3.3
- Avg ACT: 17
- Avg SAT: 1030
Franklin University: A top choice for transfer students and online learners. In 2024, 1,602 bachelor's degrees, 98 associate degrees, 840 master's degrees, and 65 doctoral degrees were earned.
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Avg Net Price: $23,726
- Avg GPA: 3.6
- Avg ACT: 24
- Avg SAT: 1174
Four-Year Public Colleges and Universities
Montana's public universities offer a wide array of programs, from undergraduate to doctoral levels, and are a vital part of the state's educational system.
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Montana State University Billings: In 2024, 382 bachelor's degrees, 184 associate degrees, and 136 master's degrees were completed.
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Avg Net Price: $15,246
- Avg GPA: 3.4
- Avg ACT: 23
- Avg SAT: 1150
The University of Montana: Located in Missoula. In 2024, 1,190 bachelor's degrees, 285 associate degrees, 450 master's degrees, and 472 doctoral degrees were earned. The University of Montana's Pre-Law Program has seen significant success, with 100% of participating students being admitted to law school for two consecutive years.
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Avg Net Price: $20,615
- Avg GPA: 3.4
- Avg ACT: 20
- Avg SAT: 1087
Montana Technological University: Located in Butte. In 2024, 295 bachelor's degrees, 61 master's degrees, and 3 doctoral degrees were earned.
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Avg Net Price: $13,174
- Avg GPA: 2.8
- Avg ACT: 17
- Avg SAT: 892
Montana State University: Located in Bozeman. In 2024, 2,715 bachelor's degrees, 175 associate degrees, 479 master's degrees, and 125 doctoral degrees were earned. Agriculture and wildlife studies are prominent at Montana State University, given that about 64% of the land is agricultural.
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Avg Net Price: $13,929
- Avg GPA: 3.3
- Avg ACT: 18
- Avg SAT: 1030
The University of Montana-Western: Located in Dillon. In 2024, 256 bachelor's degrees and 121 associate degrees were completed.
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Montana State University-Northern: Located in Havre. In 2024, 108 bachelor's degrees, 104 associate degrees, and 7 master's degrees were earned.
Additional Considerations
Cost of Education
The average net price for degree programs at nonprofit schools in Montana is $28,050.
Accreditation
It is essential to ensure that any college or university you consider is institutionally accredited.
Job Market Outlook
Montana's job market is growing, with a 1.9% increase from 2023 to 2024, surpassing the national average. In 2024, there were approximately 784,866 jobs in Montana, with 101,829 job openings.
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
Montana residents can attend select colleges and universities in 14 states, including Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, through the Western Undergraduate Exchange, paying no more than 150% of the in-state tuition rate.
The College Experience in Montana
Montana offers a unique college experience, blending academic rigor with stunning natural surroundings. College towns like Missoula and Bozeman provide a friendly and laid-back atmosphere with local shops, cafes, and vibrant arts and music scenes. The state’s breathtaking landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to expansive national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, offer students unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, fishing, and mountain biking. This combination fosters a strong sense of community and connection to nature, contributing to a supportive college experience.
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