Best Online Colleges in Montana

Colleges with online classes offer a flexible option to earn your degree while also balancing many of life's other responsibilities. Check out the most popular online programs of 2023 below.

Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Montana State University-Billings

Billings, MT

$12503

27%

Another of the best online colleges in Montana, Montana State University Billings offers more than 240 online courses and several fully online degrees and certificates, including programs at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. The college offers dozens of degree in fields such as public relations, applied science, liberal studies, mental health counseling, and special education. While some courses may include weekly chat sessions held at designated times, most classes use an asynchronous format to allow students to complete assignments at any time. Distance learners at MSU Billings benefit from several helpful resources, including academic advising, tutoring, library services, and career services. Academic advisors assist with registration, course selection, and degree planning to help students transition to online learning. The academic support center provides online tutoring in writing and math, with experienced tutors who maintain weekly availability for distance students. The college's career services office assists with career planning, counseling, and internship opportunities.

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#2 Montana State University

Bozeman, MT

$15411

54%

Home to more than 16,000 students, Montana State University is the largest school in the state, as well as one of the best online colleges in Montana. MSU primarily offers graduate programs online, with options such as agricultural education, family financial planning, land resources and environmental sciences, school library media, and science education. Distance students can also pursue an undergraduate certificate in gerontology and a bachelor's completion program in liberal studies. Most of MSU's online courses use an asynchronous format with no set log-in times or scheduled class sessions. Most programs also occur fully online and include no required campus courses. However, online students may need to visit the MSU campus in Bozeman for certain obligations, such as orientation sessions and final presentations. All online students receive comprehensive support from the school, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, library services, and remote exam proctoring.

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#3 University of Providence

Great Falls, MT

$19367

45%

A private Roman Catholic college located in Great Falls, the University of Providence ranks among the best online colleges in Montana for Christian students, with a wide variety of online programs available primarily at the graduate level. Distance learners choose from nearly a dozen online degrees and certificates in fields such as organizational leadership and management, criminal justice, and addictions counseling. UP also offers a wide selection of healthcare programs, including infection prevention and epidemiology, nurse educator, and medical assistant. UP's online programs include a mixture of synchronous and asynchronous elements, and some courses feature live video conference sessions that require students to log on at designated times each week. Other programs are delivered entirely asynchronously, enabling students to complete coursework at any time. Most programs take place entirely online. However, students may need to attend an in-person orientation session held on the UP campus. These orientation sessions typically last no more than one day.

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#4 The University of Montana

Missoula, MT

$13682

46%

Recognized as one of the top public schools in the country, the University of Montana also ranks among the best online colleges in Montana, serving more than 10,000 students from its campus in Missoula. The school offers online programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. Students can pursue programs in fields such as media arts, social work, public health, music education, and curriculum studies. UM also offers blended options that enable students to combine campus and online learning. As a comprehensive public research college, UM provides extensive support services for distance learners, including advising, library resources, and online tutoring. UM's Writer Center offers tutoring services for students of all levels through a video conferencing platform. Students can share their writing assignments online and receive live feedback from experienced tutors. Online learners can also meet with academic advisors through email or telephone.

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#5 Montana Tech of the University of Montana

Butte, MT

$12104

41%

The state's premier institution for STEM education, Montana Technological University enrolls around 2,700 students annually from its campus in Butte. The school offers four online programs: a post-licensure undergraduate completion program in nursing, a healthcare informatics graduate certificate, and master's degrees in industrial hygiene and project engineering and management. Montana Tech offers online courses in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, and students can choose between blended and fully online options. Given its technical and professional focus, many Montana Tech programs require applicants to meet certain academic and professional prerequisites. Online programs may hold more rigorous admission requirements due to their independent nature. For example, the industrial hygiene program requires applicants to possess either 19 college-level credits in math and science or professional certification. Online applicants must also possess two years of relevant work experience in a safety or health-related field.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best online colleges in Montana?

Some of the best online colleges in Montana include the University of Montana, Montana State University, Montana Tech, and Great Falls College. These institutions offer a wide range of online programs and have a strong reputation for academic excellence.

2. Can I earn a degree entirely online in Montana?

Yes, many colleges in Montana offer fully online degree programs. These programs allow students to complete their coursework and earn a degree without having to attend classes on campus. Online degrees are a convenient option for individuals who have work or family commitments.

3. How do I apply to an online college in Montana?

The application process for online colleges in Montana is similar to traditional colleges. You will need to visit the college's website and complete an online application form. Additionally, you may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

4. Are online degrees from Montana colleges respected by employers?

Yes, online degrees from reputable colleges in Montana are generally respected by employers. Employers value the skills and knowledge gained through online education, as long as the institution is accredited. It is important to choose an accredited online college to ensure the quality and recognition of your degree.

5. Can I receive financial aid for online programs in Montana?

Yes, many online colleges in Montana offer financial aid options for eligible students. You can apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Additionally, some colleges may offer scholarships or grants specifically for online students.

6. How do online classes in Montana work?

Online classes in Montana typically utilize a learning management system (LMS) where students can access course materials, participate in discussions, submit assignments, and communicate with instructors and classmates. These classes are often asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace within set deadlines.

7. Are online courses more affordable than traditional on-campus courses?

Online courses in Montana can be more affordable than traditional on-campus courses. Online students often save on commuting costs, housing expenses, and campus fees. However, tuition rates may vary depending on the institution and program. It is recommended to compare the costs of online and on-campus options before making a decision.

8. Can I transfer credits earned from an online college in Montana?

Yes, many online colleges in Montana accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. However, the transferability of credits depends on factors such as the similarity of the courses and the accreditation status of the sending institution. It is advisable to consult with the admissions office of the college you plan to transfer to for specific requirements.

9. Are online courses more flexible than traditional on-campus courses?

Yes, online courses in Montana offer greater flexibility compared to traditional on-campus courses. Online students can access course materials and complete assignments at their own convenience, allowing them to balance their studies with work, family, or other commitments. However, it is important to manage time effectively to stay on track with coursework.

10. Can I receive support services as an online student in Montana?

Yes, online students in Montana have access to various support services. These may include online tutoring, academic advising, library resources, technical support, and career services. Online colleges strive to provide comprehensive support to ensure the success and satisfaction of their online students.