🥇
$6,056
Tuition/yr
85%
Grad rate
74.8
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best machine learning 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
Machine Learning 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
Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning programs
We rank 9 accredited machine learning 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 Machine Learning Degree Programs in Montana Worth It?
Answer
$89,870
Yes. The best machine learning 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
Machine Learning Degree Rankings in Montana
Compare the top-ranked Machine Learning programs in Montana by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Machine Learning 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 machine learning 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 machine learning 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 machine learning degrees in Montana, these top-ranked machine learning 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 Machine Learning 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 machine learning, 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 machine learning 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 Machine Learning 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 machine learning, 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 machine learning 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.
Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning Students in Montana
State Aid Programs
Montana students pursuing machine learning degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways at the federal and state levels. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step for all students seeking grants, loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Montana's higher education system, managed through the Montana University System, administers the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, a merit-based tuition waiver program designed specifically for Montana high school graduates. This program significantly reduces the financial burden for qualified in-state students attending public four-year institutions throughout the state.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, individual institutions offering machine learning programs provide institutional scholarships and financial packages. The University of Montana and Montana State University, which together produce the majority of machine learning graduates in the state, offer competitive aid packages to qualifying students. Students should explore aid eligibility through the College Scorecard, which provides detailed financial aid and affordability data for specific institutions. Understanding aid options is particularly important for out-of-state students, as public tuition averages $16,688 annually compared to $4,747 for in-state attendees (IPEDS). Combining federal grants, state scholarships, and institutional aid can substantially offset these costs and make Montana machine learning programs accessible to a broader range of students.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator, Montana
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a machine learning 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.
Machine Learning Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a machine learning 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
Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning Graduates in Montana
Find machine learning jobs in Montana. These major employers across Montana metro areas are actively hiring machine learning degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Machine Learning Jobs in Bozeman
MTOracle
tech
Workiva
tech
Zoot Enterprises
fintech
Machine Learning Jobs in Missoula
MTATG (Advanced Technology Group)
consulting
University of Montana
education
Machine Learning Jobs in Billings
MTBillings Clinic
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Machine Learning Degrees in Montana
State Transfer System
Montana's transfer pathways for machine learning students are streamlined through the Montana Common Course Numbering system, which ensures consistent course coding and credit recognition across the state's higher education institutions. This system allows students to complete general education requirements and foundational computer science courses at 10 two-year institutions throughout Montana before transferring to 6 bachelor's-degree-granting schools specializing in machine learning. Community colleges such as those participating in the Montana system offer affordable entry points. For example, Aaniiih Nakoda College, the most affordable associate's option at $3,080 annually, provides pathways for students seeking lower-cost initial college experiences. Articulation agreements between two-year and four-year institutions guarantee that completed coursework transfers with full credit toward bachelor's degrees, eliminating lost progress and tuition waste.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing the associate-to-bachelor's pathway benefit from predictable progression timelines. After completing a machine learning-focused associate's degree at a community college, students transfer to institutions like Montana State University or The University of Montana to complete upper-level machine learning coursework, capstones, and research. The Montana University System Honor Scholarship, detailed on the Montana University System website, may support merit-based tuition waivers throughout this progression. Transfer students should verify specific articulation agreements with their chosen four-year institution to confirm major requirements and ensure seamless degree completion. For context on machine learning pathways nationally, review national best programs and explore related fields through data science and computer science transfer pathways in Montana.
Why Pursue a Machine Learning Degree in Montana?
Industry & Workforce
Montana's machine learning education landscape offers strong opportunities for students seeking technical expertise in a growing field. According to IPEDS, Montana institutions awarded 136 bachelor's degrees in machine learning across 6 institutions in 2023, with Montana State University leading the state by a significant margin with 115 completions. Beyond undergraduate programs, the state supports 2 master's programs with 11 completions and 1 doctoral program producing 5 graduates, demonstrating a comprehensive pathway from entry-level to advanced study. This multi-tiered educational infrastructure means students can pursue machine learning credentials at virtually any degree level without leaving Montana.
Salary Outlook
Montana's major employment hubs. Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman, and Helena, host significant employers including Billings Clinic and Providence Health, creating genuine career prospects for graduates. The state's average public in-state tuition of $4,747 at four-year institutions remains among the nation's most affordable options, with The University of Montana charging just $5,736 in annual tuition for in-state students. Prospective students should also explore Montana's financial aid landscape through the Montana University System Honor Scholarship, which offers merit-based tuition waivers for qualifying high school graduates. For national context, explore national best bachelor's programs and data science opportunities in Montana to understand how Montana compares competitively.
Machine Learning Program Availability in Montana
6 Programs
Montana offers 6 accredited machine learning programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Bozeman, Missoula, Billings.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Machine Learning Job Market & Salary Data in Montana
Employment Outlook
Montana's machine learning job market is growing steadily, with opportunities concentrated in major metropolitan areas including Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technology and data-driven roles are increasingly vital to Montana's economy. The state's machine learning landscape is supported by 9 institutions offering programs at various levels, with 6 bachelor's programs, 2 master's programs, and 1 doctoral program producing qualified graduates (IPEDS). In 2023, Montana institutions completed 136 bachelor's degrees, 11 master's degrees, and 5 doctoral degrees in machine learning, creating a strong pipeline of talent for employers across the state.
Salaries by Metro
The strongest job markets exist in Eastern Montana, Western Montana, Central Montana, and the Flathead Valley regions, where healthcare, technology, and research sectors are expanding. Career opportunities extend across sectors including healthcare analytics, agricultural technology, and government research. Students exploring machine learning careers in Montana benefit from affordable in-state tuition, with average public four-year institutions charging just $4,747 for in-state students compared to $16,688 for out-of-state enrollment (Montana University System). This affordability advantage allows graduates to enter the workforce with minimal debt while competing nationally. For detailed occupational data and salary information relevant to machine learning professionals, the BLS State Data portal provides comprehensive labor market insights. Students interested in related fields should explore Data Science in Montana and Artificial Intelligence in Montana programs, which complement machine learning training.
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 Machine Learning 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 Machine Learning Programs in Other States
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Idaho
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in South Dakota
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $7,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 179
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 39
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 73
- Median Tuition
- $9,000
Best Machine Learning Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 119
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Machine Learning Degree Programs in Montana: FAQ
What are the best machine learning degree programs in Montana?
The best machine learning 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 machine learning degree programs cost in Montana?
Machine Learning 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 machine learning degree graduates earn in Montana?
Machine Learning 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 machine learning degree programs in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers 0 accredited online Machine Learning 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 machine learning degree graduates in Montana?
Major Machine Learning 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 machine learning degree program worth it in Montana?
A machine learning 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 machine learning degree programs take in Montana?
Standard completion times for machine learning 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 machine learning degree students in Montana?
Montana machine learning 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.