montana state university vs university of montana

Montana State University vs University of Montana

Subject Strength & World Rankings (2025/2026)

Montana State University (MSU), situated in Bozeman, is particularly strong in the fields of Engineering, Agriculture, Architecture, and Environmental Sciences. It stands in the 1001–1200 band of QS World University Rankings 2026 and the 801–1000 band of THE World University Rankings 2025.

The University of Montana (UM), Missoula, is known for Liberal Arts, Environmental Studies, Business, Law, and Health Professions. It is in the =1200+ range in QS 2026 and in the 1001–1200 band in THE 2025, thus placing MSU marginally higher worldwide, especially for STEM areas.

General Information

Montana State University, established in 1893 as a land-grant college, has around 16,000 students and focuses on STEM research and outdoor experiential education, with a campus situated close to Yellowstone National Park.

The University of Montana, established in 1893 as well, enrolls around 10,000 students and features a robust liberal arts heritage through nationally renowned creative writing, environmental law, and public service programs. MSU is more STEM-centered, while UM features liberal arts and professional studies.

Acceptance Rate & Admission

MSU boasts an acceptance rate of approximately 82%, accepting students with average GPAs of around 3.5 and ACT scores ranging from 21–27.

UM has an acceptance rate of approximately 88%, accepting students with average GPAs of 3.4 and ACT scores ranging from 20–26. Both universities are open, but MSU is just a little more selective.

Research Impact & Facilities

MSU is a Carnegie R1 research university, having the top in engineering, agricultural sciences, physics, and environmental research. It also oversees substantial federal research funding and collaborations with NASA.

UM is an R2 research university, which is known for environmental sciences, forestry, public policy, and health research. Whereas UM has regional and applied research strengths, MSU has wider national standing in STEM research.

Cost & Financial Aid

The cost of tuition at MSU is approximately $9,500 a year for residents and $29,000 for non-resident/international students.

UM fees are marginally lesser, at around $8,900 for locals and $28,000 for international/out-of-state students. Both schools have scholarships and assistantships available, though MSU offers more STEM-related funding and research grants.

Graduate Studies & Alumni Outcomes

MSU graduates typically find employment in the fields of engineering, environmental sciences, technology, and agriculture, with mid-career income averaging about $82,000 (INR 67 lakh).

UM alumni are successful in law, public policy, education, environmental science, and the creative arts, and have mid-career incomes of around $78,000 (INR 64 lakh). MSU alumni are stronger in STEM and research, whereas UM is stronger in law, liberal arts, and public service.