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Montana nursing programs span a remarkable $15,840 cost gap, from Salish Kootenai College's $9,002 net price to Carroll College's $24,842. University of Providence graduates earn $100,128 annually, nearly double the state average, reflecting the urgent need for skilled nurses in Montana's rural hospitals and tribal health facilities. With only seven programs serving the state's vast geography, these schools provide essential pathways into a profession where Montana hospitals consistently report nursing shortages across specialties.
7
Programs
$9,002 – $24,842
Net Price Range
$68,548
Avg. Program Earnings
47.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,002 $4,311 35.2%
2 $14,164 $6,269 42.3%
3 $15,044 $6,706 28.2%
4 $16,240 $8,050 58.1% 89.5%
5 $20,593 $8,083 57.3% 73.3%
6 $20,907 $29,018 46.7% 95.5%
7 $24,842 $40,352 66.3% 78.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive earnings difference between Montana nursing programs?

University of Providence graduates earn $100,128 compared to Montana Tech's $56,415, a $43,713 gap that reflects different career paths and specializations. Private programs often prepare students for advanced roles in nursing administration and research, while public universities focus more on bedside nursing positions that serve Montana's rural communities.

How do tribal colleges like Salish Kootenai fit into Montana nursing education?

Salish Kootenai College offers the state's most affordable nursing education at $9,002 net cost with a 35.20% graduation rate. The program specifically trains nurses to serve tribal communities and rural areas where cultural competency in Native American healthcare proves essential for addressing health disparities.

Does attending a private nursing school in Montana justify the higher costs?

Private schools like University of Providence charge $20,907 compared to public options starting at $14,164, but graduates earn significantly more with lower debt loads of $16,698. Carroll College students pay $24,842 but achieve a 66.30% graduation rate, the highest among Montana nursing programs.

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