Montana Technological University
Acceptance rate
91.1%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$26,094
In-state $8,289
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,497
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
29.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.6%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Montana Technological University (MTU), located in Butte, Montana, is renowned for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology programs. Established in 1893, the university has cultivated a rich tradition of providing practical, hands-on education that prepares students for careers in a variety of technical fields. The university's motto, "The University of Opportunity," reflects its commitment to offering accessible education that empowers students to pursue their professional aspirations. MTU is particularly well-known for its mining engineering, geological engineering, and computer science programs, which are among the best in the nation. The university's scenic location in the Rocky Mountains also provides unique opportunities for students to engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing, fostering a vibrant campus culture that balances academic rigor with an active lifestyle.
MTU boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and research centers that support innovative learning and discovery. The university prioritizes small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention from faculty members who are experienced professionals and researchers in their fields. This close-knit learning environment not only enhances the educational experience but also fosters meaningful connections among students and faculty. Additionally, MTU places a strong emphasis on student involvement, offering a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that enrich campus life. The university's commitment to student success is further reflected in its robust career services, which help students secure internships and job placements after graduation. With a focus on experiential learning and community engagement, Montana Technological University continues to prepare its graduates for successful careers in high-demand industries.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
Montana Technological University has experienced notable trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. The tuition fees for in-state undergraduate students have increased from $6,722 in 2014 to $7,993 in 2024, marking an increase of approximately 18.9%. For out-of-state undergraduate students, tuition has surged from $19,500 to $24,667, reflecting a significant rise of about 26.4%. This increase in tuition may pose financial challenges for prospective students, particularly those from out of state who already face higher fees.
Graduation rates have shown some fluctuation but have exhibited a positive trend recently. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from 17.5% in 2015 to 30% in 2023, indicating an improvement in student success and program effectiveness. The 150% graduation rate also improved, reaching approximately 56.3% in 2023. This upward trajectory in graduation rates could be attributed to enhanced academic support and resources, aimed at improving student outcomes.
Additionally, student retention rates have generally improved, with the retention rate climbing from 66.4% in 2013 to 71.9% in 2023. This increase suggests that students are finding the university environment supportive and conducive to their academic success, which may correlate with the improvements in graduation rates.
The student-to-faculty ratio has remained stable at around 13 to 15 students per faculty member, indicating a consistent level of academic support. Overall, while the rising tuition fees pose challenges, the university's improvements in graduation rates and retention reflect positive growth and a commitment to student success, which could help offset financial concerns for current and future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Boise, about 250 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 260 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Johnny MacLean (Chancellor)
- Phone
- 4064964256
- Address
- 1300 W Park St, Butte, MT 59701-8997
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 92.0%, women 88.7%.
Data insights
Admissions Trends at Montana Technological University
The admission data from Montana Technological University over the years reveals several intriguing trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, with male acceptance rates generally higher than female rates. For instance, in 2021, the male acceptance rate reached an impressive 97.07%, while the female rate was slightly lower at 97.62%. This discrepancy raises questions about gender dynamics in admissions, which is a topic of ongoing discussion in educational circles.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, with a notable peak in 2022, where the university admitted 325 students despite a significant number of denials and deferrals. The high number of deferrals indicates that many students may be opting to postpone their enrollment, possibly influenced by the ongoing uncertainties in the post-pandemic landscape.
Moreover, the university's ranking has fluctuated, which can impact its appeal to prospective students. As the competition in higher education escalates, institutions must adapt their strategies to attract and retain students. The data suggests that Montana Technological University is actively navigating these challenges, adapting its admissions processes to maintain a robust enrollment despite an increasingly competitive environment.
Overall, the changes in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and deferrals reflect the dynamic nature of the university's admissions landscape, influenced by both internal policies and external societal factors. As we move forward, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve and what new strategies the university may employ to enhance its attractiveness to future students.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 13% submitted SAT, 82% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Montana Technological University
The data from Montana Technological University reveals notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Starting from 2008, when the institution began to report specific score ranges for the SAT, we see that the scores of admitted students have generally shown an upward trajectory. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores increased from 470 in 2008 to a high of 540 in 2022, indicating a rise in the academic preparedness of incoming students.
However, the percentage of applicants submitting scores has fluctuated significantly. In 2008, 23% of applicants submitted SAT scores, but this figure has seen a decline, reaching as low as 8% in 2022. This drop may reflect broader national trends where students increasingly opt for test-optional policies in college admissions, a movement accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many institutions to reconsider the weight of standardized tests in their evaluation processes.
Moreover, the ACT scores also exhibit a similar pattern, with the composite scores showing slight increases over the years. The data demonstrates a complex relationship between the number of applicants providing test scores and the overall performance of students who choose to submit them. While the acceptance of test-optional policies may diversify the applicant pool, it raises questions about how this impacts the academic standards of enrolled students.
In conclusion, Montana Technological University’s admissions data reflects both an increase in the academic qualifications of those who submit scores and a significant decrease in the proportion of students who choose to provide them. This evolving landscape underscores the changing dynamics in higher education admissions and the ongoing debate about the role of standardized testing in assessing student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,811 applicants in 2025, 91.1% admitted
1,649 admitted 162 not admitted Yield 21.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene · Master's35 (0% international)
- Engineering, General · Master's10 (10% international)
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other · Master's5 (0% international)
- Engineering, Other · Master's4 (0% international)
- Engineering, Other · Doctoral3 (100% international)
- Metallurgical Engineering · Master's3 (67% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Montana Technological University
The graduation data from Montana Technological University reveals significant trends and highlights within various academic fields for the year 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 51 graduates at the bachelor's level, showcasing the strong demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with the increasing emphasis on healthcare education and workforce needs, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has amplified the importance of nursing and healthcare services.
In the engineering disciplines, Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering reported 37 and 34 graduates, respectively. The robust output in these fields reflects a steady interest in engineering careers, which are crucial to infrastructure and technological advancements in society. Moreover, the presence of international students in the Civil Engineering program highlights its global appeal.
Interestingly, the data shows no graduates from certain programs, particularly in the realms of computer science and interdisciplinary studies. This could indicate a potential misalignment between student interests and available programs, suggesting a need for curriculum adjustments or enhanced recruitment strategies.
Additionally, the lack of international students in most programs, particularly at the bachelor's level, could reflect broader trends in international education, possibly influenced by recent global events and immigration policies. The university may need to explore initiatives to attract a more diverse student body to enhance its educational environment.
Overall, the data provides a snapshot of the university’s strengths in healthcare and engineering while also indicating areas where strategic improvements could be beneficial for future academic growth and student diversity.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene. | $106,252 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,788 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Management Information Systems and Services, Other. | $52,600 | |||
| Construction Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Environmental Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences, Other. | - | |||
| Materials Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | |||
| Mathematics and Statistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
Students
1,702 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 62:38 · Freshman retention 76.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,038
- First-year undergraduates 347
- Graduate students 205
- Transfers and others 112
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,497)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Montana Technological University Students in 2023
The demographic data for Montana Technological University in 2023 reveals interesting trends in student composition. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 309, with a notable gender distribution where 61.5% are male and 38.5% are female. This male-dominant trend persists across other categories, including undergraduate seniors and transfer students, where male representation is approximately 61.3% and 68.8%, respectively. The graduate student body, while smaller with 188 individuals, also reflects a similar pattern, with about 62.8% males.
Diving deeper into the ethnic composition, the majority of students identify as White, which aligns with broader trends observed in many universities across the United States. This demographic makeup raises questions about inclusivity and diversity on campus. Although the data does not detail the proportions of other ethnic groups in the undergraduate categories, it is essential for institutions to strive for a diverse environment that reflects a wider range of backgrounds.
As universities increasingly focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, Montana Technological University appears to have opportunities to enhance its outreach and support for underrepresented groups, including women and students from various ethnic backgrounds. The current gender ratios suggest a potential need for initiatives aimed at attracting more female students, particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields like engineering and technology. Overall, this snapshot of student demographics provides a foundation for discussing broader trends in higher education and the challenges that lie ahead in fostering a more inclusive academic community.
Age Distribution Among Students at Montana Technological University
The age distribution data from Montana Technological University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of its student body. The largest cohort of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 279 male undergraduates and 205 female undergraduates, representing about 40% of the total male and 41% of the total female student population. This significant presence of younger students aligns with national trends, where many individuals pursue higher education immediately after high school.
As we move to the 20-21 age bracket, we observe a slight decrease in the number of male and female students, with 277 males and 179 females. This may indicate a typical pattern of retention and graduation, where some students may transfer or drop out for various reasons, including financial constraints or personal decisions.
The data also highlights a noticeable drop in enrollment among students aged 25 and older. For instance, only 96 students aged 25-29 are enrolled, which may reflect the challenges adult learners face in balancing education with work and family responsibilities. The presence of older students in the graduate programs, however, suggests that many individuals return to education to advance their careers.
Interestingly, the data shows a gender disparity as well, particularly in the graduate programs, where male students outnumber female students in nearly all age categories. This trend may reflect broader societal patterns in STEM fields, where men have historically been overrepresented.
Overall, the age composition at Montana Technological University highlights a vibrant mix of young and returning students, emphasizing the institution's role in catering to diverse educational needs. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective support systems for all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
18 in 2025 · 13.5% in 2016
30 in 2025 · 6.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Montana Technological University
The data from Montana Technological University reveals noteworthy trends in international student enrollment over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of undergraduate international students has generally increased, peaking at 201 in 2010, which corresponds to approximately 9.79% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has seen a significant decline in recent years, dropping to just 1.67% in 2023, indicating a concerning trend for the institution.
In contrast, the enrollment of international graduate students has shown more fluctuation, with notable peaks in 2006 and 2008, where the percentage reached around 12.90% and 14.42%, respectively. The data indicates a general decline in proportions in the following years, with a slight recovery observed in 2023, where international graduate students constituted 10.11% of the total graduate enrollment.
This decrease in international student numbers could be attributed to several factors, including global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in immigration policies. The pandemic significantly disrupted international travel and affected student mobility worldwide. As universities adapt to this changing landscape, focusing on recruitment efforts, enhancing support services for international students, and creating an inclusive environment will be crucial for reversing the downward trend.
Overall, the data suggests that while there have been periods of growth, the recent decline in international student enrollment at Montana Technological University highlights the need for strategic initiatives to attract and retain a diverse student body in the future.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,214
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,094
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $8,289
- Room and board
- $12,120
- Graduate tuition
- $22,493
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$82.7M
Expenses$67.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference
Frontier Conference: football, basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 128 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 59 | 24 |
| Basketball | 19 | 17 |
| Golf | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 129 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 70 | 36 |
| Basketball | 21 | 15 |
| Golf | 12 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 115 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 64 | 33 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Golf | 10 | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 218.0 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 224.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 244.1 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 255.7 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 276.8 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Utah State UniversityLogan · 297.5 mi
U.S. News #288
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Montana Technological University:
-
University of Idaho - Ranked 185 in the US News 2024 rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its research initiatives.
-
Washington State University - With a rank of 178, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Gonzaga University - A prestigious institution ranked 93rd, Gonzaga is known for its rigorous academic programs, especially in law and business.
-
Whitman College - This liberal arts college is ranked 46th and is celebrated for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
-
University of Utah - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is known for its research programs and vibrant student community.
-
Brigham Young University - Also ranked 115, BYU offers a unique educational experience with a strong emphasis on moral and ethical values.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - Ranked 40th, this university is renowned for its research contributions and diverse academic programs.
-
Reed College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, ranked 67th, known for its strong emphasis on critical thinking and creativity.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and experiences for students in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Montana Technological University
The crime data from Montana Technological University over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in campus safety. In 2013, the university experienced a high crime rate, with 7.59 incidents per 1,000 students, which can be attributed to various factors including increased reporting or a rise in actual incidents. The following years saw a notable decline, with 2014 recording the lowest rate at 3.08 per 1,000 students, indicating an improvement in campus safety.
However, the data shows a concerning spike in 2020, where the crime rate rose to 9.57 per 1,000 students. This increase might correlate with broader social issues affecting college campuses, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student behavior and mental health, which has been reported in various studies.
By 2023, the crime rate significantly decreased to 2.09 per 1,000 students, suggesting that recent safety measures or changes in campus culture may be yielding positive results. The recorded incidents are primarily related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses, highlighting ongoing challenges in these areas.
Overall, while the trends indicate fluctuations, the recent decline in crime rates reflects positively on the university’s efforts to provide a safer environment for its students. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential to maintain and further improve campus safety. For those interested in understanding how these crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Montana Technological University include Arnold Olsen (Former Montana attorney general and US congressman), Ryan Lance (Chairman and CEO of ConocoPhillips) and Christina Hulbe (Antarctic researcher and professor at University of Otago).
-
Arnold Olsen 1916–1990
Former Montana attorney general and US congressman
-
Ryan Lance 1962–
Chairman and CEO of ConocoPhillips
-
Christina Hulbe
Antarctic researcher and professor at University of Otago
-
Jack Gentry 1923–2006
World War II veteran and founder of Positronic
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.