Most
Popular Colleges in Montana in 2026

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Montana offers a comprehensive education in areas like management, marketing, finance, and accounting. Typical courses include organizational behavior, business law, economics, and strategic management. Graduates often pursue careers as business analysts, marketing managers, or financial advisors. Popular colleges offering this degree in Montana include the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Carroll College, providing strong programs that combine practical skills with theoretical knowledge to prepare students for various roles in the business world.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Montana involves courses like developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Graduates often pursue careers in counseling, social work, or human resources. Popular colleges offering psychology programs include the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Carroll College. These schools provide a strong foundation for understanding human behavior and mental processes, preparing students for diverse roles in mental health, education, and community services across the state and beyond.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Montana typically involves courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, and database systems. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, or IT specialists. Popular colleges offering computer science programs include the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Carroll College. These schools provide solid academic foundations combined with opportunities for research and hands-on experience in technology fields, preparing students for diverse roles in the growing tech industry.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Montana typically includes courses in psychology, human development, counseling techniques, and ethics. Graduates often pursue careers as mental health counselors, school counselors, or substance abuse therapists. Popular colleges offering counseling degrees in Montana include the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Rocky Mountain College. These programs prepare students to support individuals and communities through various challenges, combining academic knowledge with practical experience for effective counseling practice.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Montana typically includes courses in anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and healthcare ethics. Graduates often pursue careers as registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or clinical nurse specialists. Popular colleges offering nursing degrees in Montana include Montana State University, University of Montana, and Carroll College. These programs prepare students for licensure exams and provide practical experience through clinical rotations, equipping them to work in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings across the state and beyond.

Best Colleges in Montana Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $28,800, while for schools in the top 10%, the median cost rises to $35,030.
• All students on average receive financial aid, with 100% receiving aid overall; however, this percentage decreases to 83.14% in the top 10% of schools.
• The average acceptance rate is relatively high at 83.14%, indicating a generally accessible admission process.
• The average number of applicants per institution is 5,348.14, but top 10% schools have significantly more applicants, averaging 14,468.4, which suggests higher competition for admission.
• Median male applicants number 735.0, and median female applicants slightly exceed this at 754.0, showing near parity in gender application rates.
• The average SAT score across schools is 1171.33, and the average ACT score is 22.83, providing benchmarks for prospective students' academic preparedness.
• Institutions enroll an average of 4,847.86 students, with 468.86 men and 452.43 women typically enrolled, showing balanced gender distribution in enrollment.
• The average graduation rate overall is 52.71%, but top 10% schools enjoy a higher average graduation rate of 61.2%, reflecting potentially stronger academic support or student outcomes.
• Median graduation rates by gender reveal a disparity, with men at 42.0% and women significantly higher at 56.0%.
• Degree offerings vary, with 5 institutions offering associate's degrees, 7 offering bachelor's degrees, 6 offering master's degrees, and 3 offering doctor's degrees, indicating a range of academic options.
• Seven of the institutions are coeducational, with no single-gender schools present.

Potential students should consider a variety of factors when selecting a college. Cost is a critical measure, especially as the top 10% of schools are more expensive but may offer slightly better graduation rates. Financial aid availability is crucial, but it tends to be less extensive at more competitive schools. Admission competitiveness and application volume should be noted since top-tier schools attract many more applicants, increasing selectivity. Academic preparedness should be aligned with average SAT and ACT scores required. Graduation rates, particularly the gender disparities, suggest the importance of evaluating student support services. Finally, degree offerings and the coeducational environment may influence students' preferences and career goals.

How much does studying at a college in Montana cost?

The average total cost of earning a degree in Montana is approximately $28,283. This includes several key expenses that a student should consider when planning for college life in the Treasure State. For example, tuition and fees amount to around $26,271, which is quite competitive compared to national averages, making Montana an attractive choice for many students. Additionally, room and board costs average about $11,942, reflecting living expenses whether you choose to stay on campus or nearby.

Other necessary expenses include books and supplies, averaging $1,423, which is essential for staying prepared and succeeding in your courses. Montana's colleges, such as the University of Montana and Montana State University, offer a welcoming environment and great value for students looking to invest in their futures.

Here's a breakdown of the typical costs:

• Average tuition and fees: $26,271
• Average room and board: $11,942
• Average books and supplies: $1,423

How long does it take to finish college in Montana?

In Montana, completing a college or university degree typically takes about four years for most traditional bachelor's programs. Schools like the University of Montana and Montana State University offer structured paths to graduation within this timeframe, helping students plan their academic journey effectively. However, there are exciting options for those looking to accelerate their studies:

• Taking summer classes to reduce time spent on campus during regular semesters
• Enrolling in accelerated degree programs designed to finish in less than four years
• Transferring credits from community colleges, such as Missoula College, to shorten overall completion time

The graduation rates provide insight into student success in Montana. On average, about 52.71% of students manage to complete their degrees, with the top 10% of schools reaching an average graduation rate of 61.2%. Women tend to graduate at a higher rate (57.14%) compared to men (46.86%), reflecting encouraging trends for female students pursuing higher education in Montana.

Salary

Graduates from colleges and universities in Montana typically earn a median salary of around $41,924. This figure represents the average earnings for alumni entering the workforce after completing their degrees in the state, offering a realistic expectation for prospective students.

However, if you aim for top-tier institutions or excel academically, your earning potential can increase significantly. For example, graduates from the top 10% of schools in Montana see median earnings rise to about $69,622, demonstrating the value of choosing well-regarded colleges and putting strong effort into your studies.

Some popular schools in Montana that can help you achieve these outcomes include:

• The University of Montana in Missoula, known for strong programs in business, health sciences, and environmental studies.
• Montana State University in Bozeman, offering excellent engineering, agriculture, and technology degrees.
• Carroll College in Helena, with a focus on liberal arts and pre-professional programs.

Choosing to study in Montana not only provides access to quality education but also positions you well to enter the local job market with solid salary prospects. Focus on building skills and leveraging university resources, and you can feel confident about your earning potential post-graduation.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Montana?

The University of Montana, located in Missoula, is the most attended college in Montana. It draws a large and diverse student body attracted by its wide range of programs, vibrant campus life, and strong research opportunities. This university provides a welcoming environment for students eager to engage both academically and socially.

What is the most popular school in Montana?

The Montana State University in Bozeman is often considered the most popular school in Montana due to its strong emphasis on STEM fields, active student organizations, and beautiful campus setting. Its popularity comes from a blend of academic strength and an engaging community that resonates with many students.

What is the most famous university in Montana?

The University of Montana holds the title of the most famous university in Montana, recognized nationally for its programs in forestry, wildlife biology, and creative writing. Its reputation extends beyond the state, making it a proud beacon of higher education for Montana students aiming to make a mark.

What is the hardest university to get into in Montana?

Among Montana universities, Montana State University's Bozeman campus is generally considered the hardest to gain admission to, thanks to its competitive programs and steadily rising application numbers. This selectivity speaks to the quality and demand for education here, encouraging students to bring their best.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges in Montana Ranking in 2025-2026

The University of Providence in Montana enrolls 765 students and offers a graduation rate of 47%. With an acceptance rate of 64%, it provides a total cost of studying of $28,618. Graduates earn a median salary of $78,414, reflecting strong career outcomes for students in this private institution focused on personalized education in Montana.

Carroll College, a liberal arts school in Montana, has 1,103 enrolled students and a graduation rate of 66%. It admits 73% of applicants, with a total study cost of $39,152. The median alumni salary is $41,924, making it a solid choice for students seeking a rigorous education and moderate earnings in the state.

Rocky Mountain College in Montana enrolls 1,032 students with a 47% graduation rate. It accepts 73% of applicants and has a total cost of $32,282 to study. Alumni earn a median salary of $36,498, suitable for students wanting a Montana-based education with a focus on career readiness.

Montana State University is a large public university in Montana with 17,144 students. Its graduation rate is 57%, and it has an acceptance rate of 87%. Total costs amount to $29,047, while median alumni salary is $44,828. It offers diverse programs and strong connections in Montana's job market for students.

Montana Technological University enrolls 1,622 students with a 58% graduation rate. It has a high acceptance rate of 90% and a total cost of $22,706, the most affordable option here. With a median alumni salary of $63,761, it's ideal for Montana students seeking technical degrees with strong earning potential.