Montana State University (MSU), located in Bozeman, Montana, is a prominent public research university known for its strong emphasis on agriculture, engineering, and the sciences. Established in 1893, MSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with a particular focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences. The university's motto, "A Tradition of Excellence," reflects its commitment to high academic standards and fostering a culture of innovation. The picturesque campus, surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, provides a unique environment for students to thrive both academically and personally.

The university is renowned for its robust research initiatives, particularly in fields related to environmental science and sustainable practices. MSU boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station and the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering, which enhance the learning experience and provide students with opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research. The vibrant campus culture is characterized by active student organizations, outdoor recreational activities, and a strong sense of community. With a commitment to student success and a track record of high graduate employment rates, MSU prepares its students not only for academic achievement but also for meaningful careers in their chosen fields. Additionally, the university has produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various sectors, further solidifying its reputation as a leading institution in higher education.

Analysis of Key Trends at Montana State University

Montana State University has demonstrated notable trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student demographics over recent years. The increase in tuition fees is particularly significant. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition rose from $6,752 in 2014 to $8,083 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 19.7%. Out-of-state students faced an even steeper hike, with fees escalating from $20,716 to $31,337, which represents a staggering increase of about 51.1%. This escalating cost of education raises concerns regarding affordability and accessibility for prospective students.

Graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory, with the on-time graduation rate climbing from 17.1% in 2013 to 30.2% in 2023. This increase is encouraging as it suggests improved academic support and resources for students, enhancing their likelihood of completing their degrees efficiently. Furthermore, the 150% graduation rate also reflected improvement, rising from approximately 46.9% to 58.7% within the same period. These figures indicate a commitment to student success and retention.

In terms of student demographics, there has been a slight shift in gender distribution among undergraduates, with male students comprising about 53.3% in 2023, a slight decrease from 54.5% in 2014. This gradual shift towards a more balanced gender representation is noteworthy as it reflects broader trends in higher education where institutions aim for inclusivity.

Moreover, the retention rate has remained relatively stable, ranging from 74.3% in 2013 to 75.2% in 2023. Despite fluctuations, the retention rates indicate that a substantial proportion of students choose to continue their studies at Montana State University, which is a positive reflection of the university's environment and support systems.

Overall, while tuition increases pose challenges, the improvements in graduation rates and stable retention rates highlight the university's efforts in enhancing student experiences and outcomes. These trends warrant attention from policymakers and educational leaders as they navigate the complexities of higher education financing and student success.

Analysis of Graduation Data at Montana State University

The graduation data from Montana State University reveals significant trends across various academic disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the Business/Commerce program stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 287 graduates. This suggests a strong interest and demand for business-related education, which is consistent with the growing importance of entrepreneurship and management skills in today's job market.

Furthermore, the data illustrates a limited presence of international students in some programs, particularly at the master's and doctorate levels, where no graduates were reported. For instance, while the Science Teacher Education program awarded 51 master's degrees, it only included three international graduates, indicating potential barriers for international students in pursuing advanced studies in this field.

In contrast, the Animal Sciences program demonstrated a small but valuable international representation with no bachelor's degree graduates but a noticeable interest in the associate level, which could indicate a pathway for future growth in this area.

Interestingly, the Critical Infrastructure Protection program has not produced any graduates this year, highlighting a possible disconnect between educational offerings and market needs, especially in light of recent global security concerns.

Overall, the graduation data not only reflects the academic strengths of Montana State University but also indicates areas for potential improvement, particularly in enhancing international student participation and aligning programs with market demands.

Analysis of Montana State University's Admission Trends and Rankings

Montana State University has experienced notable fluctuations in its admission rates and rankings over the years. The data reveals a significant decrease in its ranking from 205th in 2019 to 296th in 2025. This downward trend may reflect increasing competition among universities, as more institutions vie for recognition in the ever-expanding landscape of higher education. The admission rates for both male and female applicants show an interesting trend. For instance, in 2014, the male admission rate soared to nearly 90.5%, while the female admission rate was 78.4%. However, this has not been consistent across the years, with both rates experiencing fluctuations. The latest available data indicates that the male admission rate was approximately 79.3% and the female rate about 69.0% in 2023. This suggests that while more students are being admitted, the university may need to address gender disparities in its admission processes. Additionally, the total number of enrollments has generally increased over the years, peaking at 3,874 in 2022. However, the number of denied applicants has also risen significantly, reaching over 7,200 in the same year. This could indicate a growing pool of applicants, which, although beneficial for the institution's reputation, may lead to tougher competition and increased pressure on admission committees. Overall, while Montana State University continues to attract a large number of applicants, the declining ranking coupled with the increasing number of rejections highlights challenges that the university must navigate to maintain its standing and improve its admission practices moving forward.

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Montana State University

Over the years, Montana State University has experienced notable fluctuations in the standardized test scores of its admitted students, particularly in SAT performance. The data indicates a general increase in the minimum SAT reading and math scores required for admission, reaching a high of 550 for the lower quartile in recent years, compared to a starting point of 490 in 2007. This upward shift suggests that the university has been raising its academic standards, likely in response to increasing applicant competition and a desire to attract academically strong candidates.

Conversely, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has shown a declining trend. For instance, in 2007, nearly half of the admitted students submitted SAT scores, but this percentage dropped to below 30% in recent years. This decline may reflect broader national trends where more institutions adopt test-optional policies, encouraging students to apply without submitting standardized test scores.

The performance of admitted students in ACT scores has mirrored these trends, with the lower quartile scores for ACT composite and subject-specific areas also reflecting a gradual increase over the years. While this suggests that the academic caliber of the students has improved, it raises questions about the accessibility of higher education for students from diverse backgrounds who may have less access to test preparation resources.

Overall, Montana State University's data illustrates the complex interplay between admissions policies, standardized testing, and the changing landscape of higher education, warranting further exploration into the implications for student diversity and academic achievement.

Analysis of Student Demographics at Montana State University in 2023

Montana State University showcases a diverse student body with a significant number of undergraduate freshmen, returning undergraduates, transfer students, and graduate students. In the undergraduate category, freshmen comprise 3752 students, while returning undergraduates account for 10118 students. The proportion of male students in these groups is relatively balanced, with males representing approximately 53.3% of freshmen and 53.5% of returning students. This trend reflects a steady male presence in undergraduate education, which is crucial for fostering a competitive academic environment.

In contrast, graduate students, numbering 2056, display a notable gender imbalance, with females making up 57.1% of this demographic. This shift towards a higher representation of female graduate students highlights a broader trend in higher education, where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, potentially indicating changing societal norms and aspirations.

The racial composition within these categories is also noteworthy, particularly among freshmen and returning students, where white students dominate the demographics. The data indicates that while the majority of students are white, there is room for growth in representation from other ethnic groups. The university's commitment to diversity could be enhanced by actively promoting inclusivity and support for underrepresented students.

Overall, the demographics at Montana State University in 2023 reveal both stability in traditional undergraduate populations and evolving trends in graduate education. The university has the opportunity to strengthen its diversity initiatives to better reflect the changing landscape of higher education and society at large.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Montana State University

The age distribution data at Montana State University reveals intriguing insights into the student population. A significant portion of undergraduate students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 3106 male and 2901 female students, indicating a vibrant young demographic. This age group typically comprises first-year students who are transitioning from high school to college, reflecting a robust recruitment strategy.

As we examine the 20-21 age bracket, we see a slight decline in enrollment, with 2601 males and 2242 females. This drop may suggest challenges in retention or shifts in academic choices as students become more selective about their paths. Interestingly, the numbers for graduate students aged 22-24 show a healthy engagement, with a notable presence of both male and female students pursuing advanced degrees.

The data also highlights a gradual aging of the student body, with a noticeable representation of students aged 25-29 and even 30-34. This trend points to a growing acceptance of non-traditional students, who may be balancing education with work or family commitments. The rise in older students could reflect broader societal changes, where lifelong learning becomes increasingly valued.

Moreover, the presence of students aged 40 and above, while small, signifies that education is being pursued at various stages of life, emphasizing the importance of accessible learning opportunities. Overall, the demographic composition at Montana State University mirrors national trends in higher education, where diverse age groups contribute to a rich academic environment. This diversity not only enhances peer learning but also prepares students for a workforce that values varied experiences and perspectives.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Montana State University

The data from Montana State University reveals significant trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. For undergraduate students, the percentage of international students has gradually increased from 1.55% in 2004 to 1.35% in 2023, indicating a general interest among international students in pursuing undergraduate education at this institution. However, it's worth noting that there was a peak in 2009 with 2.62%, followed by fluctuations in the subsequent years. The decline observed post-2011 might reflect broader trends in international mobility, possibly influenced by economic factors or changing immigration policies.

On the graduate student side, the percentage of international students showed a more robust trend, starting at 9.96% in 2004 and reaching 10.07% in 2023. This increase is notable, especially considering the challenges posed by global events such as the pandemic and geopolitical tensions. The graduate program has consistently attracted a significant portion of international students, highlighting the university's strong reputation in research and advanced studies.

The varying trends in both undergraduate and graduate populations suggest that while international students are increasingly drawn to Montana State University, the factors influencing their decisions are complex and multifaceted. The university may need to adopt targeted recruitment strategies to maintain and enhance its appeal to prospective international students, ensuring a diverse and enriching campus environment. Overall, these statistics reflect a growing recognition of the importance of international perspectives in higher education.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Montana State University:

1. University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 46th in the 2025 US News rankings, it is a premier research university located in Seattle, Washington, known for its diverse programs and strong emphasis on innovation.

2. University of Utah - With a rank of 136, this university is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is recognized for its research contributions and a vibrant campus life.

3. Gonzaga University - This university is ranked 98th and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, located in Spokane, Washington.

4. University of Idaho - Ranked 179th, it is the state's flagship university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in Moscow, Idaho.

5. Brigham Young University - This university, ranked 109th, is located in Provo, Utah, and is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture.

6. Whitman College - Ranked 53rd, this liberal arts college is located in Walla Walla, Washington, and is known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

7. Colorado School of Mines - With a rank of 76, this university specializes in engineering and applied sciences, located in Golden, Colorado.

These institutions offer a range of academic programs and environments, making them excellent choices for students in the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Montana State University

The crime statistics at Montana State University over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2013 witnessed a high crime rate of 33.58 incidents per 1,000 students, which has seen a general downward trend in subsequent years. By 2014, this rate significantly decreased to 15.82, marking a positive shift towards reduced criminal activity on campus.

Throughout the years, various types of offenses have been recorded, including gun-related arrests, drug-related incidents, and alcohol-related arrests. The data shows that while some years experienced spikes in crime, such as 2018 with a rate of 21.95, most recent years like 2021 and 2022 have shown a stable decline in average crime rates, falling to 15.33 and 15.07 respectively. The 2023 data indicates a slight increase to 17.43, which may warrant further investigation to understand the factors contributing to this rise.

It is important to consider that crime rates in university settings can be influenced by various external factors, including changes in campus security policies, student population dynamics, and broader societal issues. The overall trend suggests that Montana State University has made strides towards improving campus safety, yet continuous efforts are required to maintain this positive trajectory and address any emerging issues.

For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.