University campus in Montana
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Montana, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top cloud computing colleges in Montana. 5 accredited cloud computing schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from The University of Montana to Salish Kootenai College.

#1 ProgramSalish Kootenai College
Avg Salary$89,870
Tuition From$5,736/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

5

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$89,870

Montana median cloud computing salary

BLS OEWS 2024

69/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

17%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best cloud computing degree programs: Salish Kootenai College, ,

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $2,947 to $5,736/year

U of Montana offers the most affordable option at $5,736/yr

IPEDS 2024

Cloud Computing degree programs available: 4 associate's in Montana

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

1 online cloud computing degree programs in Montana

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2024

Montana community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

4 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises, onXmaps

Tech hubs in Bozeman and Missoula

Hakia Research 2026

Cloud Computing degree programs near 16+ cities across Montana

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Montana Cloud Computing programs

We rank 5 accredited cloud computing 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 methodology

Are Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Montana Worth It?

Answer
$89,870
Yes. The best cloud computing degree programs in Montana deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $89,870 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $4,666/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Cloud Computing Degree Rankings in Montana

Compare the top-ranked Cloud Computing programs in Montana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Cloud Computing Programs in Montana

4
Programs ranked
$4,564
Avg tuition/yr
100%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Montana offers 4 accredited associate's degree programs in cloud computing, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include U of Montana, Montana State University ..., Flathead Valley Community..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Montana offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,564/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $49,429 in Montana.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Montana's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Bozeman, Missoula, Billings areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Oracle, Workiva, Zoot Enterprises hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among cloud computing schools in Montana, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cloud computing degrees in Montana.

Best Bachelor's Cloud Computing Programs in Montana

1
Programs ranked
$5,076
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Montana ranks among the nation's top destinations for cloud computing education, with 1 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 1 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Salish Kootenai College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Montana cloud computing 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 $5,076 to $5,076 annually, with an average of $5,076/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. 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 cloud computing degrees in Montana, these top-ranked cloud computing schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Cloud Computing Degree Costs & Tuition in Montana

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$4,666/year
Average out-of-state tuition$11,665/year
Community college tuition$1,167/year
4-year savings for residents$27,996
2+2 transfer pathway savings$6,998

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cloud Computing Students in Montana

State Aid Programs

Montana students pursuing cloud computing degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The primary entry point for federal aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through (Federal Student Aid). This application determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities. Montana's higher education system, coordinated through the (Montana University System), ensures that students can apply these federal resources across all public institutions in the state.

Key Programs & Amounts

Montana high school graduates have access to the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, a merit-based tuition waiver program administered through (Montana University System). This state-level scholarship recognizes academic achievement and can significantly reduce the cost of attendance at public four-year and two-year institutions. Additionally, individual institutions such as The University of Montana and Montana State University offer institutional scholarships and grants specific to their cloud computing and information technology programs. Students should work with financial aid offices at their chosen institution to identify all available aid packages, including scholarships, grants, and loan options.

Institutional Scholarships

For detailed information about federal student aid programs, eligibility requirements, and loan repayment options, students should visit (Federal Student Aid) and review the (College Scorecard) for net price calculators at specific Montana institutions. These tools provide transparent cost estimates and can help students make informed decisions about their educational investment. The combination of federal, state, and institutional aid makes cloud computing education in Montana increasingly accessible.

Cloud Computing Degree ROI Calculator, Montana

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cloud computing 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.

Cloud Computing Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a cloud computing 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

Cloud Computing Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Montana metro areas

Bozeman$99K
Missoula$94K
Billings$90K
View data table
CategoryValue
Bozeman$99K
Missoula$94K
Billings$90K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Cloud Computing Graduates in Montana

Find cloud computing jobs in Montana. These major employers across Montana metro areas are actively hiring cloud computing degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Cloud Computing Jobs in Bozeman

MT
Oracle
tech
Workiva
tech
Zoot Enterprises
fintech

Cloud Computing Jobs in Missoula

MT
ATG (Advanced Technology Group)
consulting
University of Montana
education

Cloud Computing Jobs in Billings

MT
Billings Clinic
healthcare

Transfer Pathways for Cloud Computing Degrees in Montana

State Transfer System

Montana's 8 associate's degree programs in cloud computing provide a cost-effective pathway to bachelor's degrees through the state's strong transfer system. The Montana Common Course Numbering system ensures that credits earned at two-year institutions like Flathead Valley Community College, Great Falls College Montana State University, and Montana State University Billings transfer seamlessly to four-year universities (Montana University System). This standardized numbering eliminates course duplication and accelerates degree completion, allowing students to begin their cloud computing education at community colleges with average tuition of approximately $3,500–$4,800 before transferring to bachelor's degree programs at universities like Montana State University ($6,056 tuition) or The University of Montana ($5,736 tuition).

How Transfers Work

Articulation agreements between Montana's community colleges and four-year institutions streamline the transfer process by guaranteeing course credit acceptance and establishing clear pathways for degree completion. Students can earn their associate's degree in cloud computing at Great Falls College Montana State University or Montana State University Billings, ranked #2 and #3 respectively for associate's programs, then transition to bachelor's degree programs with junior-level standing. The Montana University System Honor Scholarship supports eligible Montana high school graduates with merit-based tuition waivers, reducing financial barriers for transfer students (Montana University System). Prospective students should explore related transfer-friendly programs in Network Administration in Montana, Information Technology in Montana, and Software Engineering in Montana to identify complementary specializations. For additional context, review national online programs and consult (College Scorecard) for institutional transfer rate data.

Why Pursue a Cloud Computing Degree in Montana?

Industry & Workforce

Montana offers a growing landscape for cloud computing education, with 10 institutions currently offering programs across associate's and bachelor's degree levels (IPEDS). The state's 8 associate's programs and 2 bachelor's programs provide flexible pathways for students seeking expertise in cloud infrastructure and services. The University of Montana leads the state with 8 completions, followed by Montana State University Billings with 5 completions, demonstrating strong program output and industry demand. These institutions benefit from Montana's strong higher education system, including 14 four-year institutions and 10 two-year institutions, creating ample opportunities for specialization and advanced study.

Salary Outlook

Montana's major employment hubs in Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls are home to significant employers like Billings Clinic, Providence Health, and Montana State University, all seeking cloud-computing professionals. Public in-state tuition averages just $4,747 at four-year institutions, making Montana an affordable option compared to national averages (College Scorecard). The state's commitment to workforce development is evident through the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, which provides merit-based tuition waivers for Montana high school graduates (Montana University System). Students interested in related IT fields should explore Network Administration in Montana, Information Technology in Montana, and Cybersecurity in Montana for complementary career pathways. For broader context, review national best cloud computing programs and most affordable options nationwide.

Cloud Computing Program Availability in Montana

5 Programs
Montana offers 5 accredited cloud computing programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bozeman, Missoula, Billings.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Cloud Computing Job Market & Salary Data in Montana

Employment Outlook

Montana's cloud computing job market is experiencing growing demand across the state's major metropolitan areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technology professionals in Montana are increasingly sought after by employers in healthcare, education, and government sectors. The state's largest metros. Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, represent the primary employment hubs for cloud computing professionals. With 10 institutions offering cloud computing programs across Montana, graduates have clear pathways into these regional job markets. The field remains competitive yet accessible, particularly for candidates completing degrees at Montana's top-ranked programs.

Salaries by Metro

Montana's cloud computing sector benefits from diversified employer demand spanning healthcare systems, educational institutions, and technology-focused companies. Entry-level positions offer competitive compensation packages, while experienced professionals command higher salaries in metropolitan areas. For comparative context, students interested in related fields should explore Network Administration in Montana and Cybersecurity in Montana, which share similar employment landscapes and often hire from the same talent pools. The Montana University System's common course numbering system ensures that graduates from both four-year and two-year institutions are well-prepared for workforce transitions, with 8 associate's programs and 2 bachelor's programs available statewide according to IPEDS data.

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 Cloud Computing Programs in Montana

Online Programs

1 available in Montana

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$4,199/yr$4,666/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 Cloud Computing Programs in Other States

Cloud Computing Degree Programs in Montana: FAQ

What are the best cloud computing degree programs in Montana?
The best cloud computing degree programs in Montana based on our methodology are: 1) Salish Kootenai College (highly ranked), 2) N/A, and 3) N/A. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Montana offers 5 total accredited programs across 5 public and 0 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 1 bachelor's programs.
How much do cloud computing degree programs cost in Montana?
Cloud Computing degree program costs in Montana vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $4,666/year, while private institutions average $10,265/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $1,167/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $18,664 at public schools to $41,061 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 cloud computing degree graduates earn in Montana?
Cloud Computing 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 cloud computing degree programs in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers 1 accredited online Cloud Computing 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 Flathead Valley Community College. 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 cloud computing degree graduates in Montana?
Major Cloud Computing 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 a cloud computing degree program worth it in Montana?
A cloud computing degree program in Montana offers strong ROI with a $89,870 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $4,666/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 cloud computing degree programs take in Montana?
Standard completion times for cloud computing 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 cloud computing degree students in Montana?
Montana cloud computing 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.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Cloud Computing program profiles in Montana

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Cloud Computing programs

#1The University of MontanaMissoula, MT

Why it stands out. Strong emphasis on distributed systems theory paired with hands-on AWS/Azure deployment, positioning graduates for architect-track rather than operator-track roles.

Hakia insight. Montana's program front-loads distributed systems theory before cloud specialization, a pedagogical choice that positions graduates for architect-track roles at Amazon and Microsoft rather than operator positions—an unusual advantage at the associate's level.

At the associate's level, cloud computing at Montana stands out for its embedded systems and distributed computing foundation, giving students a rigorous technical grounding before specializing in cloud architecture. The program leverages the school's strength in computer science fundamentals while building practical expertise in AWS, Azure, and containerization through hands-on lab work. Faculty in the Department of Computer Science maintain active research interests in systems programming and network infrastructure, which directly inform the cloud curriculum. Students gain real-world experience through partnerships with regional tech companies and a capstone sequence where teams architect and deploy actual cloud solutions. The proximity to Montana's growing startup ecosystem and remote-work culture means internship opportunities often lead to full-time positions with companies that have distributed cloud infrastructure as their core business. What differentiates this path is the emphasis on *why* cloud systems work the way they do—not just how to use them—preparing graduates for senior infrastructure roles rather than entry-level cloud administration.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Research labs & institutes

  • Computer Science Department Systems Lab — Distributed systems, network protocols, cloud infrastructure

Industry partners

Amazon Web Services (AWS)Microsoft Azure

Career outcomes

Top employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Google Cloud

Accreditation & certifications

ABET accredited (Computer Science)

Location advantage: Proximity to growing Montana tech startup ecosystem Access to companies leveraging distributed cloud infrastructure for remote work

#2Montana State University BillingsBillings, MT

Hakia insight. MSU Billings integrates cloud computing into a broader IT associate's degree, creating a direct 2+2 pathway to their four-year program without requiring students to leave Billings—valuable for regional students who can't absorb transfer friction.

At the associate's level, if you want a direct pathway to a four-year degree without leaving Billings, MSU Billings' cloud computing coursework is integrated into their information technology associate degree with clear articulation agreements to the bachelor's program on campus. Students develop competency across hybrid cloud environments and gain exposure to both AWS and Azure, positioning them to either enter the workforce immediately or advance seamlessly into upper-level studies. The real advantage here is staying rooted in your community while accessing university-level instruction and resources—you're not stuck at a satellite campus but embedded in a full university ecosystem. Employers around Billings recognize MSU Billings graduates as prepared and reliable candidates for infrastructure and support roles.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Billings Public Schools, Billings Clinic, City and County of Billings government IT, Regional financial institutions, Aerospace and defense contractors in the region

#3Flathead Valley Community CollegeKalispell, MT

Why it stands out. Flathead Valley Community College provides affordable Cloud Computing education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Hakia insight. Flathead Valley's affordability and flexible scheduling serve working adults in rural Montana, though prospective students should note the program lacks named industry partnerships that would signal employer-specific skill alignment.

Flathead Valley Community College offers Cloud Computing programs in Kalispell, MT. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

#4Great Falls College Montana State UniversityGreat Falls, MT

Hakia insight. Great Falls College's partnerships with Montana State Government IT Services and regional healthcare networks create a pipeline to state jobs with strong benefits and stability—a concrete advantage for students targeting public-sector cloud roles.

At the associate's level, students in Great Falls College's cloud computing pathway gain hands-on experience with industry-standard platforms through partnerships with local tech employers and state agencies. The program emphasizes practical troubleshooting and infrastructure basics, preparing graduates for immediate entry into help desk and junior systems roles while building a foundation for eventual transfer to four-year IT programs. What sets this program apart is its embedded workforce connections—many students transition directly into positions with Montana state government or regional healthcare systems that rely on cloud infrastructure. You'll work in modern labs and learn from instructors with real field experience, which means the skills you build are immediately relevant to jobs in your region.

Programs offered

  • Associate of Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Cloud Computing · 2 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Montana State Government IT Services, Great Falls Public Schools, Regional healthcare networks, Local telecommunications providers

Best Bachelor's Cloud Computing programs

#1Salish Kootenai CollegePablo, MT

Hakia insight. Salish Kootenai College's cloud computing bachelor's serves a student population historically underrepresented in tech, offering degree-level credentials that competitors typically gate behind associate's pathways.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Cloud Computing · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Cloud Computing · 4 years · online