🥇
$6,056
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
74.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best computer engineering degree programs: Montana State, U of Montana, Montana Technological
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
Computer Engineering degree programs available: 3 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
Computer Engineering degree programs near 16+ cities across Montana
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Montana Computer Engineering programs
We rank 10 accredited computer engineering 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 Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Montana Worth It?
Answer
$89,870
Yes. The best computer engineering 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
Computer Engineering Degree Rankings in Montana
Compare the top-ranked Computer Engineering programs in Montana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering 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, Montana Technological, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Montana computer engineering 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 computer engineering degrees in Montana, these top-ranked computer engineering schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
🥈
$5,736
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad rate
50.9
Hakia Score
🥉
$6,113
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
47.4
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 | — | 35.2 |
Best Master's Computer Engineering Programs in Montana
3
Programs ranked
$5,968
Avg tuition/yr
89%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana offers 3 master's degree programs in computer engineering, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Montana State, U of Montana, Montana Technological, 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 $5,968/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 computer engineering schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$6,056
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
71.7
Hakia Score
🥈
$5,736
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad rate
43.0
Hakia Score
🥉
$6,113
Tuition/yr
82%
Grad rate
39.8
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering, 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 computer engineering 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.
Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Students in Montana
State Aid Programs
Montana computer engineering students have access to multiple funding pathways to support their education. The primary federal aid mechanism is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available through (Federal Student Aid), which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Montana residents attending in-state institutions benefit from competitive public tuition rates, with average four-year public institution tuition at $4,747 annually, significantly below the national average (IPEDS). Beyond federal aid, the Montana University System administers the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, a merit-based tuition waiver program designed specifically for Montana high school graduates attending public universities in the state (Montana University System).
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions also offer scholarships and institutional aid packages. Montana State University and The University of Montana, the state's largest computer engineering programs with 171 and 23 completions respectively, provide need-based and merit-based assistance to enrolled students. Students exploring computer science programs in Montana or software engineering options will find similar financial aid structures across Montana's higher education system. The Montana Common Course Numbering system (Montana University System) enables students to transfer credits seamlessly between institutions without losing financial aid eligibility, reducing overall program costs. For detailed information on federal aid eligibility and state-specific programs, prospective students should consult (Federal Student Aid) and verify requirements with individual institution financial aid offices.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator, Montana
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering 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.
Computer Engineering Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer engineering degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
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
$133,333
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)$2,712,662
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)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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
Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Graduates in Montana
Find computer engineering jobs in Montana. These major employers across Montana metro areas are actively hiring computer engineering degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Engineering Jobs in Bozeman
MTOracle
tech
Workiva
tech
Zoot Enterprises
fintech
Computer Engineering Jobs in Missoula
MTATG (Advanced Technology Group)
consulting
University of Montana
education
Computer Engineering Jobs in Billings
MTBillings Clinic
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Computer Engineering Degrees in Montana
State Transfer System
Montana's higher education system is designed to help seamless transfer pathways between institutions. The state operates 10 two-year institutions that prepare students for upper-level work at 14 four-year universities, creating accessible entry points for computer engineering study (IPEDS). The Montana Common Course Numbering system (Montana Common Course Numbering) ensures that courses completed at community colleges transfer with full credit recognition to four-year institutions within the Montana University System, eliminating duplicate coursework and reducing time-to-degree. Students beginning at two-year schools can complete foundational mathematics, physics, and engineering science courses before transferring to bachelor's programs at Montana State University, The University of Montana, or Montana Technological University, each offering strong upper-level computer engineering coursework.
How Transfers Work
The Montana University System (MUS) administers formal articulation agreements that streamline the transfer process, with clear curriculum mapping between community colleges and four-year programs. Prospective transfer students should work closely with advisors at both their current and target institutions to ensure prerequisite alignment. Additionally, the Montana University System Honor Scholarship provides merit-based support for Montana residents, including transfer students, helping offset the average $4,747 in-state tuition costs (Montana University System). Students can explore complementary fields like Information Technology in Montana and Network Administration in Montana at two-year institutions before specializing in computer engineering at four-year universities. Transfer pathways require 60 transferable credits before advancing to upper-level engineering coursework, allowing students to build strong foundational competencies while managing costs efficiently.
Why Pursue a Computer Engineering Degree in Montana?
Industry & Workforce
Montana offers a strong computer engineering education landscape with 10 institutions offering programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state boasts 6 bachelor's-granting institutions and 3 master's-granting universities, providing pathways for both undergraduate and graduate study. Montana State University dominates the field with 171 completions, establishing itself as the state's premier computer engineering hub, while The University of Montana and Montana Technological University each contribute significantly to the talent pipeline with 23 and 22 completions respectively (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Montana's affordability advantage sets it apart nationally. Public in-state tuition averages just $4,747 annually, with top-ranked programs like The University of Montana offering tuition as low as $5,736, among the most affordable options nationwide (College Scorecard). The state's major employment centers in Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, home to employers like Billings Clinic and Providence Health, create real-world opportunities for internships and careers. Students can explore Computer Science in Montana and Software Engineering in Montana as complementary fields, while benchmarking against national leaders via National Best Bachelor's Programs. The Montana University System (MUS) further supports student success through coordinated degree pathways and merit-based financial aid.
Computer Engineering Program Availability in Montana
6 Programs
Montana offers 6 accredited computer engineering programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bozeman, Missoula, Billings.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Engineering Job Market & Salary Data in Montana
Employment Outlook
Montana's computer engineering job market is supported by a diverse employer landscape across multiple metro areas and regions. The state's major hiring centers include Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, which together represent the strongest metro markets for tech professionals. According to BLS employment data for Montana, the state offers competitive opportunities across Eastern Montana, Western Montana, Central Montana, and the Flathead Valley regions. Local demand is driven by healthcare, education, and technology sectors that continue to invest in digital infrastructure and engineering talent.
Salaries by Metro
Montana's computer engineering programs are well-positioned to meet regional employment needs. With 10 institutions offering computer engineering degrees (IPEDS), the state produces 197 bachelor's degree completions annually, alongside 23 master's completions and 6 doctoral completions. Average public in-state tuition of $4,747 makes Montana programs particularly accessible compared to national averages. Students who graduate from top-ranked programs like Montana State University and The University of Montana benefit from strong regional employer connections. For broader career context, explore how Montana's opportunities compare with Computer Engineering in California or Computer Engineering in Texas, which represent larger competitive markets.
High-Growth Sectors
Career advancement in Montana's computer engineering sector is enhanced by proximity to major employers and educational hubs. Students can leverage resources like Federal Student Aid and the Montana University System Honor Scholarship to support their education. For detailed salary and employment outlook information specific to your region, consult BLS Montana occupational data. Consider complementary degree paths in Computer Science in Montana or Software Engineering in Montana to expand career opportunities.
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 Computer Engineering 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 Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Idaho
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in North Dakota
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $7,800
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 187
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,000
Best Computer Engineering Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 129
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Computer Engineering Degree Programs in Montana: FAQ
What are the best computer engineering degree programs in Montana?
The best computer engineering degree programs in Montana based on our methodology are: 1) Montana State University (85% graduation rate), 2) The University of Montana, and 3) Montana Technological University. 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 computer engineering degree programs cost in Montana?
Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree graduates earn in Montana?
Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree programs in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers 0 accredited online Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree graduates in Montana?
Major Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering degree program worth it in Montana?
A computer engineering 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 computer engineering degree programs take in Montana?
Standard completion times for computer engineering 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 computer engineering degree students in Montana?
Montana computer engineering 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.