Montana State University Billings: Is It Worth It?

Graduate earnings, costs, and ROI analysis with federal data

By Appffeine Research Team · Updated February 11, 2026

Overview

Montana State University Billings is located in Billings, MT. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Montana State University Billings actually earn.

Data last updated: February 11, 2026

| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $44,296 | | In-State Tuition | $6,706 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $21,347 | | Acceptance Rate | N/A | | Graduation Rate | 28.2% | | Student Population | 2,710 |

Graduate Earnings

According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Montana State University Billings graduates is $44,296 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.

This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.

How This Compares

Compare Montana State University Billings's graduate earnings to:

  • [Similar schools in MT](/schools/mt)
  • [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
  • [National averages by major](/majors)

Cost Breakdown

Understanding the true cost of attending Montana State University Billings:

| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $6,706 | $21,347 | | Room & Board | $9,800 | $9,800 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $66,024 | $124,588 |

Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

ROI Analysis

To calculate your personal ROI:

  • Estimate your total cost after financial aid
  • Compare to median earnings of $44,296
  • Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
  • Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
[Calculate Your Personal ROI →](/tools/roi-calculator)

Top Majors at Montana State University Billings

The highest-earning majors at Montana State University Billings typically include:

  • Engineering and Computer Science programs
  • Business and Finance degrees
  • Healthcare and Nursing programs
[See earnings by major at Montana State University Billings →](/school/montana-state-university-billings/majors)

Similar Schools to Consider

Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:

  • Schools in MT with similar outcomes
  • Institutions with comparable admission rates
  • Universities with strong programs in your intended major
[Compare with similar schools →](/compare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Montana State University Billings worth the tuition?

With median graduate earnings of $44,296 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $124,588, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.

What percentage of Montana State University Billings students graduate?

The graduation rate at Montana State University Billings is 28.2%, which is below the national average.

How competitive is admission to Montana State University Billings?

Admission rate data is not currently available.

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This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.