Best Online Colleges in Montana

Montana ranks among the largest states in the U.S. by land area, but it’s also one of the least populous, making online education a terrific choice for students who may not live near a college campus. This ranking highlights some of the best online colleges in Montana, offering a starting point to begin your research into higher education in the state. Below you’ll find information on each school’s online degree offerings, program delivery formats, and helpful resources available to distance students.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online education offers several advantages for learners, chief among them convenience and affordability. Many online programs give students the flexibility to complete coursework at any time of day, with no scheduled times for class meetings and no required campus visits. Many schools also offer reduced tuition rates for online students, while learners can further reduce expenses by avoiding transportation or housing costs. These factors make online learning a popular choice for working students.

Prospective online learners should note some additional key differences from on-campus courses. For example, most online courses require a greater level of independence than campus courses, and students must be able to complete their work without the structure of weekly class meetings. Online learning still offers chances to interact with peers and faculty, but some students may miss the sense of community that comes with classroom learning. For many working students, however, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

College graduates in Montana benefit from a strong economy that has consistently outpaced national averages since the turn of the century. The state’s unemployment rate ranks below the national average (3.3% as of September 2019) and Montana’s GDP growth ranks among the fastest in the country. The state’s economy owes its success to several strong industries, including financial activities, government, education and healthcare, trade, and transportation and utilities.