Acceptance Rate
82%
Avg. SAT
1285
75th percentile
“Montana State University blends rugged outdoor spirit with serious research in the heart of Bozeman’s mountain landscape.”
Bozeman, MT
Location
Small City
Campus Setting
Nestled in Bozeman, Montana, Montana State University (MSU) was founded in 1893 as the state’s land-grant institution, originally focused on agriculture and mechanical arts to serve the needs of a frontier region. Over the decades, it has grown into a hub of innovation and exploration, often called 'the University of the Yellowstone' for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park and its deep ties to environmental and natural sciences. MSU’s personality is shaped by the Rockies—rugged, independent, and unpretentious—with a campus that feels like a gateway to adventure as much as a place of study. The surrounding area, Bozeman, is a vibrant small city of about 50,000, known for its outdoor recreation, artsy downtown, and a growing tech scene, though it’s also remote, with the nearest major city (Billings) over two hours away.
For students, MSU attracts those who crave wide-open spaces and hands-on learning, especially if you’re drawn to fields like engineering, agriculture, or earth sciences. You’ll thrive here if you’re self-motivated, comfortable with a slower pace, and eager to balance academics with hiking, skiing, or fishing in the nearby Gallatin Valley. However, if you’re used to urban energy or need constant social buzz, the isolation of Bozeman and the long, harsh winters—with snow often lingering into spring—might feel confining. The campus community is tight-knit, but it’s not for everyone; some students find the rural setting and limited off-campus entertainment options a challenge to adjust to.
Photo Gallery
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Montana State University shines in fields tied to its land-grant roots and geographic setting, with standout programs in agriculture, engineering, and environmental sciences. The College of Agriculture is a powerhouse, offering practical training in sustainable farming and ranching, while the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering tackles real-world problems like renewable energy and infrastructure in harsh climates. Research is a big deal here—you can expect opportunities to work on projects studying everything from dinosaur fossils to glacier dynamics, often in collaboration with faculty who prioritize undergraduate involvement. Classes vary widely in size; introductory lectures in popular subjects might pack in hundreds, but upper-level courses and labs often shrink to small, focused groups where you’ll get to know your professors.
That said, academic life at MSU comes with some tradeoffs. While the hands-on focus is a strength, resources for certain humanities or social science fields can feel limited compared to larger public universities in more urban areas. Some students also note that advising can be inconsistent, so you’ll need to be proactive in planning your academic path, especially if you’re aiming for competitive graduate programs. Still, the intellectual culture rewards curiosity and grit, particularly if you’re inspired by solving problems in the natural world.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
15,046 undergrad • 2,089 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
83%
Black / African American
<1%
Hispanic / Latino
6%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
10%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Bozeman, MT
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at MSU pulses with a blend of academic focus and outdoor obsession. A typical week might include early mornings in the library, afternoons in class or at a lab, and weekends spent skiing at Bridger Bowl (just 16 miles away) or hiking in the nearby mountains. Traditions like 'Cat-Griz Week,' the lead-up to the annual football rivalry game against the University of Montana, ignite school spirit with events and friendly banter across campus. The social scene leans casual—think bonfires, outdoor gear swaps, and small gatherings rather than a booming party culture—though Greek life and student clubs offer ways to connect if you seek a tighter circle. Housing is a mix of dorms and off-campus options, but availability can be tight in Bozeman, where the cost of living has crept up due to the town’s popularity.
There are challenges to this lifestyle. Winters are brutal, with temperatures often dipping below zero, and snow can make getting around campus a slog if you’re not prepared. The rural vibe means entertainment options are limited compared to urban schools, and some students feel the social scene lacks variety. Still, if you embrace the outdoors and a slower rhythm, you’ll find MSU’s community welcoming and grounded, with a shared appreciation for the stunning natural backdrop.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
79%
4 Years Graduation Rate
35%
6 Years Graduation Rate
54%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$53,263
79% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Montana State University and return in the fall. 35% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 54% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
35%
4-5 years
19%
6-8 years
3%
Non-grad
43%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$5,824
Acceptance
82%
Undergrads
15,046
4-Year Grad Rate
35%
Endowment
$289M
Bozeman, MT 59717
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