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Best Master's Programs in Montana

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 11 schools · Agent Insights
11
Schools Analyzed
$45,810
Avg. Earnings (10yr)
46%
Avg. Graduation Rate
$16,020
Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right master's program can feel overwhelming, especially in a state like Montana with its unique educational landscape. Here, we’ve identified 11 schools that offer advanced degrees, each contributing to the workforce in different ways. For many, the decision revolves around finding a program that aligns with career goals and financial realities.

What sets these programs apart are their outcomes in key areas: earnings potential, graduation rates, student debt, and overall completion rates. As you explore the list below, consider how each school's statistics reflect its ability to prepare graduates for success in the job market. A high earning potential coupled with manageable debt can be a powerful indicator of a program’s effectiveness.

For instance, Carroll College stands out with an impressive average earning of $61,772 and a graduation rate of 68%. In contrast, Salish Kootenai College, while offering a lower net price of $7,945, has a graduation rate of just 32% and earnings of $32,725. This comparison highlights the trade-offs between financial considerations and the likelihood of completing a degree that leads to higher earnings.

Key Findings

Carroll College graduates earn an average of $61,772, the highest in the state.

Montana Technological University has a 58% graduation rate, above the average of 46%.

Salish Kootenai College has the lowest net price at $7,945 but also the lowest earnings at $32,725.

Montana State University-Northern graduates have an average debt of $18,500, with average earnings of $49,505.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 11
Avg. earnings at 10yr $45,810
Avg. graduation rate 46%
Avg. net price $16,020
Avg. median debt $20,479

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Montana ranked by graduate outcomes

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

$15K$68K$120K$0$50KNET PRICECarroll CollegeThe UniversityRocky MountainMontana StateMontana Technological

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Carroll College68%The University of Montana47%Rocky Mountain College48%Montana State University…29%Montana Technological Un…58%Montana State University…42%The University of Montan…50%Salish Kootenai College32%University of Providence36%Montana State University57%Blackfeet Community Coll…37%

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Full Rankings

#1

Carroll College

Helena, MT · 1,092 students · Private nonprofit

Carroll College in Helena is known for its strong academic programs and a graduation rate of 68%. With median earnings of $61,772 ten years after graduation, students are positioned well for successful careers. The college's emphasis on liberal arts education prepares graduates not just for jobs, but for meaningful engagement in their communities.
71% accepted 68% graduate $61,772 earnings
Carroll's full profile
#2

The University of Montana

Missoula, MT · 7,488 students · Public

The University of Montana in Missoula is home to 7,488 students, offering a vibrant college experience in a scenic environment. While its graduation rate is at 47%, the school's strong support systems and resources aim to help students reach their full potential in their academic journeys.
96% accepted 47% graduate $44,511 earnings
The's full profile
#3

Rocky Mountain College

Billings, MT · 840 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Billings, Rocky Mountain College serves around 840 students, offering a close-knit educational environment. With an acceptance rate of 70%, it aims to cultivate a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive and engage deeply with their studies and peers.
70% accepted 48% graduate $49,036 earnings
Rocky's full profile
#4

Montana State University Billings

Billings, MT · 2,626 students · Public

Montana State University Billings, with its larger student body of 2,626, offers a vibrant campus life in a public university setting. The graduation rate sits at 29%, indicating that while challenges exist, there is a supportive network for those determined to complete their studies.
29% graduate $44,296 earnings
Montana's full profile
#5

Montana Technological University

Butte, MT · 1,480 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 58%, Montana Technological University in Butte has a solid track record of helping students succeed in their studies. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and programs in high-demand fields, which aligns well with the median earnings of $54,329 a decade after graduation. This focus on practical skills is appealing for students who want to enter the workforce prepared and competitive.
91% accepted 58% graduate $54,329 earnings
Montana's full profile
#6

Montana State University-Northern

Havre, MT · 761 students · Public

Montana State University-Northern in Havre attracts students with its tight-knit community and focus on practical, career-oriented education. Though the graduation rate is 42%, the university's programs lead to median earnings of $49,505 ten years post-graduation, suggesting that students can find good opportunities in their fields despite the challenges.
42% graduate $49,505 earnings
Montana's full profile
#7

The University of Montana-Western

Dillon, MT · 1,198 students · Public

Located in the picturesque town of Dillon, The University of Montana-Western serves a tight-knit community of 1,198 students. With a 100% acceptance rate, it provides an accessible pathway for those looking to pursue higher education in a supportive environment focused on student success.
100% accepted 50% graduate $43,229 earnings
The's full profile
#8

Salish Kootenai College

Pablo, MT · 580 students · Public

Salish Kootenai College in Pablo serves a smaller student population of about 580, creating a close community atmosphere. The college’s graduation rate is lower at 32%, and while median earnings at ten years stand at $32,725, the institution focuses on serving Indigenous communities and fostering cultural connections in education, which can be invaluable for many students seeking a supportive environment.
32% graduate $32,725 earnings
Salish's full profile
#9

University of Providence

Great Falls, MT · 528 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community of just 528 students, the University of Providence in Great Falls, MT, offers an intimate learning environment that many students appreciate. The 36% graduation rate indicates that while some may struggle, there are students who find their path here and succeed in earning their degrees.
50% accepted 36% graduate $48,296 earnings
University's full profile
#10

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT · 14,451 students · Public

Montana State University, situated in the vibrant city of Bozeman, caters to a larger student body of 14,451. Known for its strong programs and engaging campus life, it offers a dynamic experience for students eager to learn and connect with peers from diverse backgrounds.
82% accepted 57% graduate $53,263 earnings
Montana's full profile
#11

Blackfeet Community College

Browning, MT · 286 students · Private nonprofit

Blackfeet Community College serves a smaller community of 286 students in Browning, MT, with a focus on accessibility and individualized support. The 37% graduation rate is a positive sign for those who need a nurturing environment to thrive, particularly for students who may be the first in their family to attend college.
37% graduate $22,953 earnings
Blackfeet's full profile

While examining the data, one notable pattern emerges between Carroll College and Salish Kootenai College. Carroll College not only boasts a higher earning potential with $61,772 but also has a significantly better graduation rate at 68%. In contrast, Salish Kootenai College, despite its lower tuition costs, sees average earnings of only $32,725 and a graduation rate of just 32%. This illustrates how investment in a program can pay off in the long run, both in terms of financial return and degree completion.

As you weigh these options, think about what matters most to you: Is it location, program fit, or financial implications? Use this data as a starting point, but also consider visiting campuses or reaching out to current students. Each school has its unique culture, and understanding the environment can be just as important as the numbers.

This data underscores the critical choice families face regarding education and stability. A degree can be a pathway to improved earnings and job security, but the right choice depends heavily on individual circumstances. Take a moment to reflect on how this information might guide you in finding a program that not only fits your aspirations but also supports your financial well-being.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics.

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.