Best
Public Colleges in Montana in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Montana prepares students to manage organizations across industries. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and entrepreneurship. Popular colleges include Montana State University in Bozeman, the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana Tech in Butte, and Carroll College in Helena. Graduates become business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or entrepreneurs in Montana. Programs also build communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills valued by local employers today.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Montana offers coursework in developmental psychology, research methods, statistics, cognition, abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Programs combine classroom learning with research or field experiences, preparing graduates for roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human services specialist, or research assistant; clinical practice usually requires graduate study and licensure. Popular options include the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana State University in Bozeman, and Montana Tech in Butte, each offering psychology programs.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Montana combines programming and theory with problem-solving. Typical courses include programming languages, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects while developing analytical and teamwork skills. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or data analysts. Popular colleges include Montana State University in Bozeman, the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana Tech in Butte, and Montana State University Billings.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Montana typically combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and research with supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in clinical mental health, school counseling, or substance use treatment. Montana colleges offering relevant programs include the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Montana State University Billings. Graduates work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, behavioral health clinicians, addiction counselors, or career advisors after meeting licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Montana combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and pediatric and mental-health nursing. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or pursue roles in public health and long-term care, depending on their degree and licensure. Popular study options include Montana State University, University of Providence, Carroll College, and the University of Montana campuses.

Best Colleges in Montana Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $19,785, compared with $30,578.40 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $10,793.40.
• An average of 96% of students receive financial aid, compared with 92.25% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 92.25%. Schools receive an average of 8,602.5 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 18,029.2 applicants. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 2,526.5 and 3,162.5, respectively.
• Average test scores are 1,183.33 on the SAT and 23.33 on the ACT.
• Schools average 4,225.33 enrolled students, including averages of 739.0 men and 741.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42.33%, compared with 57.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 43.0% for men and 40.0% for women.
• Eight institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• Nine schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men, and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, weigh the cost of attendance and availability of financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation outcomes, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, as well as higher graduation rates, while the overall average financial-aid rate is higher than the top-10% average.

How much does studying at a college in Montana cost?

The average total cost of studying in Montana is $17,711.44, a practical starting point as you plan for a degree. The figure is an average, not a guaranteed price for every college or the full cost of completing a multi-year program. At popular options such as Montana State University in Bozeman and the University of Montana in Missoula, your actual expenses will depend on your program, housing choice, and personal budget.

Typical cost figures include:

• Tuition and fees: $7,003.33
• Room and board: $10,732.14
• Books and supplies: $1,511.50

These amounts can help you compare the main parts of your budget and feel more prepared before choosing where to study. Keep in mind that tuition, housing, and course-material costs may differ by institution and student circumstances, so check each college's current estimates when making a detailed plan. Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid may also reduce what you personally pay. With a clear budget and a little research, earning a degree in Montana can feel more achievable.

How long does it take to finish college in Montana?

In Montana, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree often takes about two; changing majors, working, or taking lighter course loads can extend that timeline. At Montana State University in Bozeman, the University of Montana in Missoula, or Montana Tech in Butte, your pace depends on program requirements and credits completed each term.

Montana's average graduation rate is 42.33%, so outcomes show that completing a degree can take persistence; among the top 10% of schools, the average is 57.2%. The average rate is 43.11% for men and 42.0% for women. These figures offer context, not a prediction of your chances; with planning and support, your goal is achievable.

Ask an advisor about:

• AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits accepted by your program.
• Summer courses or a heavier load, if affordable and manageable.
• Accelerated or online options and prerequisites that may fit your schedule.

Salary

College graduates in Montana earn a median alumni salary of about $47,000. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is approximately $57,728. These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you consider studying at popular in-state options such as Montana State University or the University of Montana.

Your own earnings can vary based on your degree, career, experience, and where you find work. Still, completing a college degree can be an encouraging step toward building skills and pursuing better-paying opportunities in Montana.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Montana?

There is no official single "most prestigious" college, but Montana State University in Bozeman is often a leading answer, particularly for science, engineering, and research. The University of Montana in Missoula is also a major public flagship university, with strengths of its own. The best fit depends on your intended field and campus preferences.

Which city in Montana has the best public schools?

Bozeman is often considered one of Montana's strongest choices for public schools, thanks to its well-regarded school district and range of educational opportunities. Still, "best" can vary by grade level, individual school, and what matters most to your family. Check current school-level results and visit neighborhoods to find the right fit.

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

Montana State University in Bozeman offers a large-campus experience for students seeking broad academic choices and access to Montana's outdoor lifestyle. With 17,165 enrolled students, it is the largest school in this group. Its 57% graduation rate and 82% acceptance rate provide useful planning context. Estimated total study cost is $30,784, while median alumni salary is $50,109. For an in-state student, Bozeman combines university resources with mountain recreation and a lively college community, making it a strong all-around Montana option.

The University of Montana in Missoula gives students a university setting in a culturally active western Montana city. It enrolls 10,811 students, making it a substantial campus while smaller than Montana State University. Its 48% graduation rate, 96% acceptance rate, and $30,527 total study cost can help applicants assess fit and affordability. Median alumni salary is $40,109. Missoula's rivers, trails, arts, and community atmosphere add appeal for Montana residents seeking academics alongside outdoor access and a welcoming college-town lifestyle.

Montana Technological University in Butte is a focused, career-oriented campus known for strengths in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. Its 2,516 students create a smaller university environment than the state's largest campuses. The school reports a 58% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate, with total study costs of $24,079. Median alumni salary reaches $69,156, the highest figure among these five institutions. For Montana students prioritizing technical preparation, affordability, and strong reported earnings, Butte offers a distinctive in-state pathway in Montana.

Salish Kootenai College, located on the Flathead Indian Reservation near Pablo, is a tribally controlled college serving Native and other learners. Its intimate enrollment of 671 students may appeal to those wanting a close-knit community and education rooted in Indigenous perspectives. The graduation rate is 28%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $10,260, the lowest in this group, and median alumni salary is $47,000. For Montana residents, it offers an affordable, place-connected route to study and career preparation.

The University of Montana-Western in Dillon offers a smaller-campus experience in a rural southwestern Montana setting. With 1,358 enrolled students, it may suit learners who prefer a close community over a large university. Its 51% graduation rate and 100% acceptance rate make access straightforward to consider; total study cost is $18,420. Median alumni salary is $38,171. For Montana students, Dillon provides a quieter environment, access to outdoor recreation, and an in-state option for pursuing a degree with personal campus connections.