🥇
$6,056
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
74.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: Montana State, U of Montana, U of Providence
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $5,736 to $39,152/year
Montana State offers the most affordable option at $6,056/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 2 master's, 1 doctoral in Montana
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Major employers: Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises, onXmaps
Tech hubs in Bozeman and Missoula
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 17+ cities across Montana
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Montana Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 9 accredited artificial intelligence programs in Montana using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Montana Worth It?
Answer
$89,870
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Montana deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $89,870 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $19,660/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in Montana
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in Montana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Montana
6
Programs ranked
$19,660
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Montana State, U of Montana, U of Providence, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Montana artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $76,390, 22% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Bozeman, Missoula, Billings metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,736 to $39,152 annually, with an average of $19,660/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Montana's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Montana, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
🥈
$5,736
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad rate
53.5
Hakia Score
#4
$6,113
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
41.7
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Rocky Mountain College | Billings, MT | Private | $32,282 | — | 36.2 |
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Montana
2
Programs ranked
$5,896
Avg tuition/yr
92%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana offers 2 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Montana State, U of Montana, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Montana earn a median salary of $89,870, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Bozeman, Missoula, Billings creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $5,896/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Montana's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$6,056
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
68.6
Hakia Score
🥈
$5,736
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad rate
44.1
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Programs in Montana
1
Programs ranked
$6,056
Avg tuition/yr
85%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana is home to 1 doctoral programs in artificial intelligence, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Montana State are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Montana PhD holders earning a median of $112,338, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Bozeman, Missoula, Billings region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Montana programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in Montana, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in Montana
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $19,660/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $49,150/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,915/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $117,960 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $29,490 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in Montana
State Aid Programs
Montana students pursuing Artificial Intelligence degrees have access to multiple funding sources to make their education more affordable. The primary federal resource is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Montana residents should complete the FAFSA to unlock federal Pell Grants and Direct Loans, which don't require repayment and interest-based repayment, respectively. Additionally, Montana's higher education system administers merit-based support through the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, which provides tuition waivers for qualifying Montana high school graduates attending public institutions within the state system.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions across Montana offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to AI program students. Montana State University and The University of Montana, the state's largest AI programs with 115 and 23 completions respectively, offer need-based and merit-based aid directly through their financial aid offices. Private institutions like Carroll College and University of Providence also provide substantial institutional scholarships. Students should contact each school's financial aid office to explore program-specific scholarships, graduate assistantships, and employer partnerships. For comprehensive guidance on federal aid options, visit Federal Student Aid and cross-reference school-specific offerings through the Montana University System website.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, Montana
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in Montana. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Montana metro areas
Bozeman$99K
Missoula$94K
Billings$90K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Bozeman | $99K |
| Missoula | $94K |
| Billings | $90K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in Montana
Find artificial intelligence jobs in Montana. These major employers across Montana metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Bozeman
MTOracle
tech
Workiva
tech
Zoot Enterprises
fintech
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Missoula
MTATG (Advanced Technology Group)
consulting
University of Montana
education
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Billings
MTBillings Clinic
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in Montana
State Transfer System
Montana provides strong transfer pathways for students pursuing artificial intelligence degrees, supported by the state's coordinated higher education system. The Montana Common Course Numbering system ensures consistent course numbering and transferability across public universities and community colleges, allowing students to move seamlessly between institutions. Montana's 10 two-year institutions offer foundational coursework in mathematics, computer science, and related disciplines that articulate directly with bachelor's degree programs at 14 four-year institutions in the state. This structured pathway enables community college students to complete associate degrees and then transfer to comprehensive universities like Montana State University or The University of Montana to complete AI bachelor's degrees.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between Montana's two-year and four-year institutions help smooth transitions and minimize the loss of credits during transfer. Students can begin their AI education at more affordable community colleges, such as Aaniiih Nakoda College with tuition as low as $3,080, and then transfer to bachelor's degree programs at institutions like Montana State University ($6,056 tuition) or The University of Montana ($5,736 tuition). This pathway maximizes financial aid opportunities and allows students to benefit from the Montana University System Honor Scholarship at the university level. The Montana Common Course Numbering system guarantees that general education and prerequisite courses transfer without duplication. For students interested in related fields, explore data analytics programs in Montana and computer science programs in Montana, which share common transfer pathways and foundational coursework within the Montana system.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in Montana?
Industry & Workforce
Montana offers a growing landscape for artificial intelligence education with 9 institutions offering AI programs across associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Montana institutions awarded 136 bachelor's degrees, 11 master's degrees, and 5 doctoral degrees in artificial intelligence, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to this emerging field. Montana State University leads the state with 115 completions, making it a powerhouse for AI education, while The University of Montana contributed 23 completions to the state's pipeline of AI professionals.
Salary Outlook
Studying AI in Montana provides exceptional affordability compared to national averages. The average public in-state tuition at Montana four-year institutions is just $4,747, while out-of-state students pay $16,688, making Montana a cost-effective destination for AI education (Montana University System). Beyond tuition savings, Montana high school graduates may qualify for merit-based tuition waivers through the Montana University System Honor Scholarship. The state's major metropolitan areas. Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, host thriving tech communities and major employers including Billings Clinic, Providence Health, and the universities themselves, creating internship and career opportunities for AI graduates. For more context on national opportunities, explore best artificial intelligence bachelor's programs nationwide and most affordable AI programs across the United States.
Artificial Intelligence Program Availability in Montana
6 Programs
Montana offers 6 accredited artificial intelligence programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bozeman, Missoula, Billings.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in Montana
Employment Outlook
Montana's artificial intelligence job market is experiencing steady growth across multiple sectors, with opportunities concentrated in the state's major metropolitan areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the technology and healthcare sectors are driving demand for AI professionals in cities like Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls. The state's AI workforce is supported by 9 institutions offering AI programs at various degree levels, producing 136 bachelor's degree completions annually. This educational pipeline ensures a consistent supply of talent to meet regional employer needs across Eastern Montana, Western Montana, and Central Montana regions.
Salaries by Metro
Career prospects for AI graduates in Montana are strongest in healthcare and higher education sectors. Major employers actively recruiting AI talent include Billings Clinic, Providence Health, Montana State University, and University of Montana. The average public in-state tuition across Montana's four-year institutions is $4,747, making it cost-effective for students to gain local expertise and remain in the state's job market. For detailed labor market insights, the College Scorecard provides comprehensive data on AI program outcomes and employment trends. Students interested in related fields should explore Machine Learning in Montana and Data Science in Montana for complementary career pathways that enhance AI job prospects.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Montana$58,416$130,312
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in Montana
Online Programs
0 available in Montana
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$17,694/yr$19,660/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Idaho
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 5
- Median Tuition
- $7,800
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 112
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Montana: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in Montana?
The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Montana based on our methodology are: 1) Montana State University (85% graduation rate), 2) The University of Montana, and 3) University of Providence. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Montana offers 6 total accredited programs across 3 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in Montana?
Artificial Intelligence degree program costs in Montana vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $19,660/year, while private institutions average $43,252/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,915/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $78,640 at public schools to $173,008 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in Montana?
Artificial Intelligence professionals in Montana earn a median salary of $89,870, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $58,416, while senior roles exceed $130,312. Salaries vary by metro area: Bozeman ($98,857), Missoula ($94,364) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers 0 accredited online Artificial Intelligence programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire artificial intelligence degree graduates in Montana?
Major Artificial Intelligence employers in Montana include Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises, onXmaps, RightNow Technologies. The Bozeman and Missoula metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Montana universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Montana's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in Montana?
An artificial intelligence degree program in Montana offers strong ROI with a $89,870 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $19,660/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($101,553), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do artificial intelligence degree programs take in Montana?
Standard completion times for artificial intelligence degree programs in Montana are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Montana community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Montana university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in Montana?
Montana artificial intelligence degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Montana state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Montana's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Montana salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.