Best
Private Colleges in Montana in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Montana combines coursework with the state's close-knit business communities. Students typically study accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and entrepreneurship, often completing internships or projects with local organizations. Popular options include the University of Montana in Missoula and Montana State University in Bozeman, along with Montana Tech in Butte. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or small-business owner across diverse industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Montana combines classroom learning with research into behavior, mental processes, and development. Typical courses include statistics, research methods, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Students can pursue psychology degrees at the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana State University in Bozeman, and Montana State University Billings. Graduates commonly work in human services, case management, community support, and human resources; advanced clinical or counseling roles generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Montana combines programming fundamentals with practical, often close-knit learning. Courses typically include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Montana State University in Bozeman, the University of Montana in Missoula, and Montana Tech in Butte offer opportunities to pursue the degree. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators in technology companies, government agencies, healthcare, and other industries statewide.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Montana combines classroom learning with supervised clinical experience. Students commonly study counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention, followed by practicum and internship placements. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors, depending on their degree, credentials, and licensure. Montana options include Montana State University, the University of Montana, and Montana State University Billings.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Montana combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical, pediatric, and mental-health nursing. Programs also teach ethics and patient communication. Graduates may work as registered nurses, practical nurses, nurse educators, or care coordinators, depending on degree and licensure. Montana options include Montana State University, Carroll College, Montana Tech, and the University of Providence statewide.

Best Colleges in Montana Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 30,048.0, compared with 37,896.8 at schools in the top 10%, indicating that the top-ranked group has a higher median cost.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 63.67% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 63.67%. Schools receive an average of 1,203.67 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 1,764.2. The median number of male applicants is 665.0, and the median number of female applicants is 740.0.
• Average test scores are 1,159.33 on the SAT and 22.33 on the ACT.
• Schools have an average of 613.2 enrolled students, including averages of 107.0 men and 110.67 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.75%, compared with 66.9% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 39.5% for men and 60.0% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, five offer bachelor's degrees, and three offer master's degrees; zero offer doctor's degrees.
• Five schools are coeducational, while zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes, admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment size, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, while the overall average financial-aid share is higher than the top-10% average.

How much does studying at a college in Montana cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Montana is $24,176.80. For a student planning a degree, that figure offers a starting point, but it is not a guaranteed price for completing an entire program: your actual bill depends on the college, degree length, residency status, and living choices. Montana State University in Bozeman and the University of Montana in Missoula are popular options, and their costs can differ from the statewide average.

Reported averages include $25,370.60 for tuition and fees, $10,556 for room and board, and $866.67 for books and supplies. Since these do not reconcile with the total, treat them as separate reference points, not amounts to add. Compare resident tuition, housing, and program charges at Montana State University or the University of Montana. Scholarships may make a degree more affordable. Budgeting for food, books, transportation, and personal alongside tuition can help you choose a campus in Montana confidently.

How long does it take to finish college in Montana?

Most full-time students in Montana need about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your timeline at Montana State University in Bozeman or the University of Montana in Missoula depends on major requirements, course availability, whether you attend full time, and how many credits transfer. Some programs, especially those with clinical or lab requirements, may take longer, so checking a degree map with an adviser can help you plan confidently.

Reported graduation rates offer another perspective: the average is 51.75%, rising to 66.9% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 42.25% for men and 60.25% for women. These figures show that finishing is not automatic, but planning and support can keep you moving toward your goal. To potentially finish faster:

• Use AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits to meet requirements.
• Take summer classes or choose an accelerated course schedule where available.

Salary

College graduates in Montana earn a median alumni salary of $50,631. At schools in the top 10% for alumni salaries, the median rises to about $66,605 - a promising benchmark if you're choosing where to study and build your career.

Whether you attend the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana State University in Bozeman, or Montana Tech in Butte, your earnings will depend on factors such as your major, work experience, and career path. These figures offer a broad snapshot rather than a guarantee for graduates of any particular school or program.

For a Montana student, earning a degree can be a meaningful step toward stronger career opportunities while staying connected to the state. Comparing programs, career services, and opportunities for internships can help you find a path that fits your goals.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Montana?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Montana in Missoula is a strong favorite for its dramatic setting. The campus sits beside the Clark Fork River, with Mount Sentinel rising right behind it, and features leafy paths and historic buildings. For students, that scenery can make an ordinary walk to class feel special.

What is the most selective college in Montana?

Carroll College in Helena is often cited among Montana's most selective colleges, though rankings can change from year to year and depend on how selectivity is measured. Its smaller, private-school setting and application review may appeal to students seeking a close-knit academic community. Check the latest admissions figures before comparing your chances.

What is the richest university in Montana?

If "richest" means the size of its endowment, Montana State University is a leading candidate among the state's universities. Endowment totals vary by reporting year and by whether figures include affiliated foundations, so the ranking is not a timeless measure. A larger endowment can support scholarships, research, and campus programs, but it does not determine a student's experience.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Montana Ranking in 2026-2027

Carroll College is a private Catholic college in Helena, offering students a close-knit campus experience in Montana's capital. It enrolls 1,160 students, with a 69% graduation rate and 71% acceptance rate. Its reported total cost of studying is $40,132, while median alumni salary is $50,631. Helena offers state-government access and outdoor recreation, including nearby trails and mountain scenery. Montana students should weigh Carroll's strong graduation rate against its listed cost when comparing degree options and seeking an in-state college experience.

University of Providence is a private Catholic university in Great Falls, giving Montana students a smaller-campus option in the state's north-central region. It enrolls 618 students, reports a 28% graduation rate and 50% acceptance rate, and lists total study costs of $30,048. Median alumni salary is $70,599, the highest figure among these five schools. Its compact enrollment may appeal to students seeking close campus connections; compare program availability, financial aid, and outcomes before choosing a suitable degree path in Montana.

Rocky Mountain College, located in Billings, offers Montana students a private-college setting in the state's largest city. Its enrollment is 932, with a 48% graduation rate and a 70% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $34,544, and median alumni salary is $39,828. Students can consider how its urban location fits their preferences for campus life, services, and access to eastern Montana communities. Comparing degree offerings and aid can help determine whether this option aligns with individual goals.

Blackfeet Community College in Browning is a tribal college serving students in northwestern Montana, with a community-centered setting near the Blackfeet Nation. It enrolls 318 students and reports a 62% graduation rate; acceptance-rate information is unavailable. Its listed total cost of studying is $2,880, while median alumni salary data is not available. For Montana learners seeking an accessible local college option, exploring its current programs, transfer pathways, student support, and financial aid can clarify how it fits their educational plans.

Montana Bible College is a small Christian college in Bozeman, offering a faith-focused setting for students considering Bible-centered education in Montana. Its enrollment is 38, giving it the smallest student body in this group. The listed total cost of studying is $13,280; graduation rate, acceptance rate, and median alumni salary figures are unavailable. Prospective students should contact the college to confirm current degree options, admissions details, and costs, then consider whether its religious focus and Bozeman location match their goals.