Montana State University Billings
The Vibe Check
Montana State University Billings offers a practical, commuter-focused experience where students are often balancing work, family, and education. The campus feels like a tight-knit community hub rather than a traditional residential college, with a strong emphasis on serving the needs of working adults and non-traditional students. You'll find a down-to-earth atmosphere where faculty know your name and the pace is manageable.
Academics & Majors
MSU Billings excels in career-oriented programs, particularly in Health Professions, Business, and Education, with strong ties to local industries for hands-on learning. The university prioritizes accessible, quality teaching with small class sizes, making it easier for students to get personalized attention. While research opportunities exist, they are more focused on undergraduate involvement and community-based projects rather than large-scale graduate research.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Billings
Billings is Montana's largest city, offering a mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. Students can explore hiking and biking in the nearby Rimrocks or visit the Yellowstone Art Museum, and the downtown area has a growing scene of breweries, cafes, and live music venues. For outdoor enthusiasts, access to fishing, skiing, and national parks is just a short drive away.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,296):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting with standard safety measures in place, including campus security and emergency alerts. Billings is generally considered safe, but as with any city, students should remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Very affordable in-state tuition and low average net price
- ✓ Strong programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Mechanic & Repair Tech
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible faculty for personalized attention
- ✓ Ideal for non-traditional students and working adults with flexible scheduling
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation and retention rates may indicate challenges with student support or completion
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing and traditional college-town social life
- ✗ Fewer research opportunities compared to larger research universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
MSU Billings is known for its career-focused programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Education, with strong ties to local industries. It serves a large population of non-traditional and commuter students, offering flexible scheduling and affordable tuition. The university is also recognized for its hands-on training in Precision Production and Mechanic & Repair Tech fields.
Montana State University Billings has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts most applicants with a high school diploma or GED. The acceptance rate is generally high, but admitted students should be prepared to meet placement requirements for math and English. With a 28.4% graduation rate, success here depends more on student commitment and utilizing support services than on selective admissions.
Campus life at MSU Billings is commuter-oriented, with many students balancing school with work and family. The campus offers student clubs, intramural sports, and events, but the social scene is quieter compared to large residential universities. Students often engage with the wider Billings community for entertainment, from outdoor activities to cultural events downtown.
For in-state students, MSU Billings offers excellent value with low tuition and a reasonable average net price. The 10-year median earnings of $44,296, combined with strong job placement in healthcare and trades, make it a worthwhile investment for career-focused students. Out-of-state students should weigh the higher tuition against potential scholarships and career opportunities in Montana.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,884
- In-State Tuition $6,706
- Out-of-State $21,347
- Zip Code 59101
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition of $6,706 and an average net price of $15,044, MSU Billings is one of the more affordable options for a bachelor's degree. The 10-year median earnings of $44,296 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for in-state students in high-demand fields like healthcare and trades. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition may require more careful consideration of financial aid and career prospects.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.