At $20,593/yr net price, Montana State University graduates earn $53,263/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $19,263/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,593 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $82,372 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $53,263/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$19,263/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 57.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $16,713/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,165/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,572/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,456/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,771/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $78,343 | |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $72,325 | $21,750 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $65,387 | $21,747 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $65,332 | $27,000 |
| Construction Engineering Technologies. | Bachelor | $63,997 | $25,185 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $61,090 | $24,980 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $59,411 | $22,802 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $57,860 | $16,345 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $57,318 | $28,000 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $57,318 | $18,366 |
The Risk Factor
57.3% of students at Montana State University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Montana State University delivers solid returns for STEM majors but creates financial risk for students in lower-earning programs. The median graduate earns $53,263 after 10 years, which provides reasonable payback on the $22,500 typical debt load, but nearly half of students never graduate.
Engineering and computer science programs justify their costs with strong regional demand from tech companies and energy firms. Nursing graduates earn $78,343 annually, making it the school's best financial bet. Computer science majors see $72,325 returns with manageable debt under $22,000. Engineering disciplines consistently deliver salaries above $63,000.
The 57% graduation rate creates significant downside risk. You face real chances of accumulating debt without completing your degree. Students who struggle academically or lack strong study skills should consider this carefully.
Montana's job market favors technical skills, making this school a good choice if you can handle rigorous STEM coursework. The state's energy sector, healthcare systems, and growing tech presence provide local opportunities that align with the university's strongest programs.
Financial aid reaches only 17% of students, suggesting most families pay close to the full $20,593 net price. Merit scholarships exist but competition is intense. In-state students get the best deal, while out-of-state students should compare costs against similar programs elsewhere.
This school works financially if you choose the right major and graduate on time. Stick to engineering, computer science, or nursing for the strongest returns. Avoid programs without clear career paths in Montana's economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montana State University worth the cost?
Montana State University offers solid value for students in high-paying majors like nursing ($78,343) and computer science ($72,325), but the overall 10-year earnings of $53,263 barely justify the $20,593 annual cost. Students should focus on the university's strong STEM programs to maximize ROI.
What are the best paying majors at Montana State University?
Nursing leads Montana State University's earnings with $78,343 median salary, followed by computer science at $72,325 and engineering programs around $65,000. Liberal arts and general studies majors typically earn significantly less than the university average.
How much debt do Montana State University graduates have?
Montana State University graduates leave with a median debt of $22,500, which is manageable for high-earning majors but concerning given the 57% graduation rate. Students who don't finish face debt without the degree's earning potential.
Does Montana State University have good job placement after graduation?
Montana State University's 57% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to finish, though graduates in nursing and engineering fields typically find stable employment. The school's location in Montana may limit job opportunities compared to urban markets.