🥇
$6,299
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad rate
75.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Montana is a small but growing CS market, Bozeman has emerged as a tech pocket with Oracle, Workiva, and Zoot Enterprises hiring locally
With only 7 accredited CS institutions statewide, program options are limited but public-school tuition is among the lowest in the West
Hakia Research 2026
Montana State University leads with an 85% graduation rate, CAE-CDE cybersecurity designation, and just $6,056/yr in-state tuition
The University of Montana in Missoula follows at $5,736/yr with a perfect 100% CS graduation rate, though from a smaller cohort
Montana CS graduates earn an $89,870 median salary, and the state's low cost of living makes that go further than similar salaries in coastal states
Job growth is projected at 22% through 2032, though the absolute number of CS positions is smaller than in more populous states
Aaniiih Nakoda College offers the only associate's CS program in the state at $3,080/yr
The limited two-year pipeline means most students enter directly into four-year bachelor's programs at Montana State or the University of Montana
Montana Technological University in Butte ($6,113/yr) provides an engineering-focused alternative to the two flagship campuses
Carroll College and Rocky Mountain College offer private options, but at $39,152/yr and $32,282/yr respectively, the public schools are significantly better value
Updated June 26, 2026
How we ranked Montana Computer Science programs
We rank 10 accredited computer science 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$89,870
Are Computer Science Degree Programs in Montana Worth It?
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Montana deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $89,870 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $17,291/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Montana
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Montana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Montana
6
Programs ranked
$20,558
Avg tuition/yr
51%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science 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 computer science 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 science degrees in Montana, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
🥉
$6,358
Tuition/yr
58%
Grad rate
67.1
Hakia Score
#4
University of Providence
Great Falls, MTPrivate nonprofit
$30,048
Tuition/yr
28%
Grad rate
66.8
Hakia Score
#5
$5,964
Tuition/yr
48%
Grad rate
65.2
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Rocky Mountain College | Billings, MT | Private nonprofit | $34,544 | 48% | 64.3 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Montana
2
Programs ranked
$6,132
Avg tuition/yr
53%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana offers 2 master's degree programs in computer science, 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 computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
🥇
$6,299
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad rate
70.6
Hakia Score
🥈
$5,964
Tuition/yr
48%
Grad rate
59.7
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Montana
1
Programs ranked
$6,299
Avg tuition/yr
57%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Montana is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer science, 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 science 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 Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Montana
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $17,291/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $43,228/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,323/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $103,748 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $25,936 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Montana
State Aid Programs
Montana computer science students have access to multiple layers of financial support, starting with federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Federal Student Aid portal provides comprehensive information about grants, loans, and work-study opportunities available to eligible students. Additionally, Montana offers the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, a merit-based tuition waiver program designed specifically for Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees within the state's public university system. This scholarship significantly reduces the financial burden for qualifying students attending institutions like Montana State University and The University of Montana.
Key Programs & Amounts
Individual institutions within Montana also provide institutional scholarships and aid packages to computer science majors. Montana State University and The University of Montana, the state's two largest computer science programs with 115 and 23 completions respectively, offer various merit and need-based scholarships. Students should explore the College Scorecard to compare net price and aid offerings across Montana's 12 institutions offering computer science programs. Beyond state and federal resources, prospective students can investigate scholarships through professional organizations like the ABET-accredited programs, which often maintain partnerships with industry sponsors offering additional funding opportunities for computer science majors.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Montana
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science 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 Science Graduates in Montana
Find computer science jobs in Montana. These major employers across Montana metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Bozeman
MTOracle
tech
Workiva
tech
Zoot Enterprises
fintech
Computer Science Jobs in Missoula
MTATG (Advanced Technology Group)
consulting
University of Montana
education
Computer Science Jobs in Billings
MTBillings Clinic
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Montana
State Transfer System
Montana offers strong transfer pathways for computer science students through the Montana Common Course Numbering system (https://mus.edu/), which standardizes course numbering and content across all institutions in the Montana University System. This system ensures that credits earned at Montana's 10 two-year institutions (IPEDS) transfer seamlessly to 14 four-year institutions, creating a coherent educational pipeline. Students pursuing an associate's degree in computer science at participating community colleges can complete foundational coursework, including programming, mathematics, and general education requirements, before transferring to bachelor's programs at flagship institutions like Montana State University and The University of Montana. This approach reduces overall education costs while maintaining academic rigor and credential quality.
How Transfers Work
Articulation agreements between Montana's two-year and four-year institutions help smooth transitions and reduce redundant coursework. The Montana University System (https://mus.edu/) administers these agreements, which explicitly define how associate's degree credits map to bachelor's degree requirements. Students transferring from community colleges benefit from consistent course content through Montana Common Course Numbering and often receive priority admission to upper-division computer science programs. Transfer students should work with academic advisors to ensure their course selections align with bachelor's degree requirements at their target institution. Financial aid remains portable across institutions through the Montana University System Honor Scholarship program, which supports merit-based tuition waivers for qualified Montana residents. For comprehensive transfer planning, prospective students should consult Federal Student Aid resources and individual institution websites to maximize educational and financial benefits.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Montana?
Industry & Workforce
Montana offers a compelling environment for computer science education with 12 institutions dedicated to preparing graduates for the digital economy (IPEDS). The state's flagship program at Montana State University has produced 115 completions in recent years, demonstrating the strength of computer science training in the region. With average public in-state tuition of just $4,747 for four-year institutions, Montana provides an affordable pathway to quality CS education compared to national averages (College Scorecard). Students benefit from strong regional tech hubs in Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, where major employers including Montana State University and the University of Montana drive demand for skilled computer science professionals.
Salary Outlook
The state's computer science programs span multiple degree levels, 6 institutions offer bachelor's degrees, 2 institutions provide master's programs, and 1 institution offers doctoral training (IPEDS). Top-ranked schools like Montana State University and The University of Montana consistently lead state rankings. Beyond traditional computer science, Montana students can explore specialized pathways including Software Engineering in Montana, Data Science in Montana, Artificial Intelligence in Montana, and Cybersecurity in Montana. This diverse program landscape ensures students can align their education with emerging tech sectors while maintaining affordable tuition and personal access to faculty mentors typical of Montana's educational culture.
7 Programs
Computer Science Program Availability in Montana
Montana offers 7 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bozeman, Missoula, Billings.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Montana
Employment Outlook
Montana's computer science job market is growing steadily, supported by a diverse employer base across the state's major metropolitan areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technology roles continue to expand in regions like Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls, where companies are increasingly investing in digital infrastructure and software development capabilities. The state's unemployment rate remains competitive, and computer science graduates from Montana institutions find strong placement opportunities both within the state and nationally. Entry-level positions focus on software development, systems administration, and IT support roles, with median salaries reflecting both regional cost of living and national market trends.
Salaries by Metro
The demand for computer science talent in Montana is particularly strong in healthcare, higher education, and government sectors. Major employers like Billings Clinic and Providence Health actively recruit computer science professionals for their digital transformation initiatives. Montana State University and the University of Montana serve as both educational hubs and significant employers themselves, creating a concentrated job market in Bozeman and Missoula. Students interested in career pathways can explore related fields like Software Engineering in Montana, Data Science in Montana, and Cybersecurity in Montana to understand the broader technology employment landscape. For broader context, review national computer science job trends and compare with opportunities in other states like California and Texas.
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 Science Programs in Montana
Online Programs
0 available in Montana
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$15,562/yr$17,291/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 Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Idaho
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Wyoming
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $4,100
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in North Dakota
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $9,200
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $7,800
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Montana: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Montana?
The best computer science 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 7 total accredited programs across 4 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Montana?
Computer Science degree program costs in Montana vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $17,291/year, while private institutions average $38,040/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,323/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $69,164 at public schools to $152,161 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 science degree graduates earn in Montana?
Computer Science 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 science degree programs in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers 0 accredited online Computer Science 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 science degree graduates in Montana?
Major Computer Science 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 science degree program worth it in Montana?
A computer science degree program in Montana offers strong ROI with a $89,870 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $17,291/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 science degree programs take in Montana?
Standard completion times for computer science 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 science degree students in Montana?
Montana computer science 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.