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Montana State University Billings offers the state's most affordable Natural Resources Conservation and Research program at just $15,044 net cost, nearly $10,000 less than Carroll College's $24,842. Montana's vast wilderness areas and outdoor recreation economy create strong demand for conservation professionals, with graduates earning between $25,194 and $36,221. The University of Montana-Western stands out with a 49.50% graduation rate despite its $16,669 net cost, making it an efficient choice for students entering this field.
6
Programs
$15,044 – $24,842
Net Price Range
$29,578
Avg. Program Earnings
48.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

6 Natural Resources Conservation and Research Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $15,044 $6,706 28.2%
2 $16,669 $6,430 49.5% 36.3%
3 $17,118 $8,152 45.4% 95.4%
4 $18,508 $33,252 46.7% 75.2%
5 $20,593 $8,083 57.3% 73.3%
6 $24,842 $40,352 66.3% 78.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $9,798 cost gap between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The difference reflects Montana's public versus private college structure. Montana State University Billings costs $15,044 while Carroll College charges $24,842, with public schools benefiting from state funding that keeps net costs lower.

How do graduation rates compare across these affordable programs?

Carroll College leads with a 66.30% graduation rate, followed by Montana State University at 57.30%. The University of Montana-Western achieves 49.50% despite being the second most affordable option at $16,669.

Where do graduates typically find employment with these earnings ranges?

Montana's $25,194 to $36,221 salary range reflects opportunities with the National Park Service, state fish and wildlife agencies, and private land management companies. The University of Montana-Western graduates earn $36,221, the highest among reporting schools.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.