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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Rocky Mountain College

Billings, Montana · www.rocky.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

69.6%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$35,582

$45,734 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

851

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

32.9%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.4%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Rocky Mountain College (RMC), located in Billings, Montana, is a private liberal arts college that offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a vibrant campus culture. Established in 1878, RMC is known for its commitment to fostering critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and an appreciation for the diversity of human experience. The college emphasizes a personalized education experience, boasting a small student-to-faculty ratio that allows for meaningful interactions between students and professors. With a diverse range of undergraduate programs, RMC provides students with the opportunity to explore various fields of study while encouraging interdisciplinary learning.

The campus of Rocky Mountain College is not only picturesque but also equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience. The college features state-of-the-art laboratories, a well-stocked library, and numerous spaces for collaborative learning and innovation. Students at RMC are also encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, with a strong emphasis on athletics and community service. The college's commitment to student life is evident through its various clubs, organizations, and sporting events, fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit. Moreover, RMC's location in Billings offers students access to stunning natural landscapes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. Overall, Rocky Mountain College cultivates an enriching academic environment that prepares graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Rocky Mountain College

Rocky Mountain College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in tuition, student retention, and graduation rates over the years. The tuition fees have consistently increased, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from approximately $23,718 in 2014 to $33,252 in 2024, reflecting a significant financial burden on students and families. This upward trajectory in tuition is not uncommon in higher education, as institutions strive to maintain quality amid rising operational costs.

In terms of student retention, there has been a concerning decline from a high of 71% in 2015 to around 60% in 2022, followed by a slight recovery to 65.75% in 2023. This fluctuation indicates potential challenges in student satisfaction or engagement, which could be exacerbated by financial pressures from rising tuition fees. Retention is critical as it directly influences graduation rates and institutional reputation.

Graduation rates have also been a point of focus. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has seen variability, starting at about 32.3% in 2013, peaking at 40% in 2020, and stabilizing around 34.8% in 2023. While the increase to 40% is promising, the overall rate remains low compared to national averages, suggesting that the college may need to enhance support systems for students to encourage timely completion of their degrees.

In summary, while Rocky Mountain College has demonstrated resilience in adapting to financial pressures with marginal improvements in graduation rates, the school must address retention challenges and the impact of rising tuition on its student body to foster a more supportive educational environment.

This college

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Ogden, about 360 mi
Nearest international airport
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), about 390 mi
Billings, Montana
Also known as
RMC
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Church of Christ
President
Dr. Robert Wilmouth (President)
Phone
4066571000
City
Billings, Montana
Address
1511 Poly Drive, Billings, MT 59102-1796

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
72.0%
Women
67.4%

In 2020: men 63.1%, women 56.4%.

Data insights

Analysis of Rocky Mountain College Admission Trends

The admission data from Rocky Mountain College reveals several significant trends over the years. Notably, the admission rates for both male and female students have shown fluctuations, demonstrating the college's shifting selectivity. For instance, in 2021, the male admission rate peaked at approximately 73.1%, while the female rate reached around 69.8%. This indicates a more inclusive environment for both genders compared to previous years, particularly when the male admission rate dipped to approximately 49.1% in 2010.
The enrollment numbers also tell an interesting story. In 2009, the college enrolled 276 students, but this number saw a considerable decline in 2012, dropping to 228 students. However, a gradual recovery began in 2013, with enrollment numbers rising again to 261 by 2023. The fluctuations in enrollment may reflect broader trends in higher education, such as demographic shifts and changing perceptions of college value.
Moreover, the number of applicants being denied admission has generally remained high, peaking at 638 in 2012. This suggests that while the college continues to attract a significant number of applicants, it also maintains rigorous admissions standards. The delayed admissions process, indicated by the number of students deferring their enrollment, has also seen an upward trend, especially in recent years, with 906 students opting to defer in 2022.
Overall, Rocky Mountain College exhibits a dynamic admission landscape, characterized by varying acceptance rates, consistent applicant denial figures, and a notable increase in deferred admissions, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities present in the current higher education climate.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—

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 · 6% submitted SAT, 44% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total893–1133Peer median 1158
ACT composite18–24
SAT Reading
488–565
600700800
SAT Math
405–568
600700800
ACT composite
18–24
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Rocky Mountain College Admission Trends

The admission data for Rocky Mountain College over the years reflects notable trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Analyzing the SAT and ACT statistics from 2007 to 2023 reveals fluctuations in both the number of students submitting scores and their corresponding performance metrics.

The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has shown significant variation, peaking at 45% in 2014, while dipping to as low as 9% in 2022. This decline could reflect broader national trends, where fewer students opt to submit standardized test scores due to test-optional policies adopted by many universities, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of scores, the range of SAT reading and math scores has generally remained competitive, with the 25th percentile scores for SAT reading fluctuating from a low of 403 in 2008 to a high of 500 in 2022. This indicates an overall improvement in the quality of admitted students regarding their academic preparedness. Similarly, ACT scores have shown comparable patterns, suggesting that the college is attracting more academically capable candidates over time.

Interestingly, the data also shows that the admissions landscape is becoming more competitive. As more institutions adopt flexible admission policies, the emphasis on holistic admissions processes may allow students with diverse backgrounds to gain acceptance, even if their test scores do not fit traditional standards.

In conclusion, the data indicates that Rocky Mountain College is evolving its admissions strategy in response to both external pressures and changing student demographics, aligning with broader trends in higher education towards inclusivity and academic excellence.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,405 applicants in 2025, 69.6% admitted

978 admitted 427 not admitted Yield 28.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1608 international (5.0%)
Master's630 international (0.0%)
Doctoral260 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew
28
Business Administration and Management, General
22
Psychology, General
21
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
15
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
9
Environmental Science
6
Small Business Administration/Management
6
Equestrian/Equine Studies
5
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
5
Geology/Earth Science, General
4

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Physician Assistant · Master's44 (0% international)
  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral25 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Accounting and Business/Management · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Doctoral1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Rocky Mountain College

The graduation data from Rocky Mountain College for 2023 reveals significant trends across various fields of study. Notably, the health-related professions, particularly in Occupational Therapy and Physician Assistant programs, have a pronounced emphasis with a total of 28 and 12 graduates, respectively. This highlights a growing interest in healthcare careers, which is consistent with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals globally, especially post-pandemic.

In the realm of business education, the college produced 23 graduates in Business Administration, complemented by 4 international students in the same category. This reflects a robust interest in business studies, aligning with national trends where business degrees remain among the most sought after by students.

Interestingly, education-related programs, including general education and specializations such as Educational Leadership, also demonstrate a solid output, with a total of 15 master's graduates. This suggests a commitment to improving educational leadership, which is crucial in addressing contemporary educational challenges.

Furthermore, the data shows limited international representation, particularly in the bachelor’s and master’s levels across various disciplines. For example, only 2 international students graduated in psychology and 1 in sports education. This indicates a need for institutions to attract a more diverse student body, which can enrich the academic environment and foster global perspectives.

Overall, the graduation numbers from Rocky Mountain College provide insight into the evolving educational landscape, emphasizing the importance of healthcare, business, and education fields while highlighting opportunities for increased international engagement.

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

Health professionshas 70 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Physician Assistant.$126,662
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$79,737
Businesshas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Accounting.-
Accounting and Business/Management.-
Small Business Administration/Management.-
Transportation has 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew.$54,109
Aviation/Airway Management and Operations.$54,109
Psychology has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$35,762
Educationhas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$64,023
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Social Studies Teacher Education.-
History Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$26,110
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$26,110
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$26,110
Biologyhas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$30,994
Social sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Geography.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Natural resources has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Science.-
Agricultural has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Equestrian/Equine Studies.-
Physical scienceshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Visual and Performing artshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Communication has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Computer and information sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer Science.-
English has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Creative Writing.-
General Literature.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy and Religious Studies, General.-

Students

1,032 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 69.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (851)

White
590 · 69.3%
Hispanic
78 · 9.2%
Two or more races
54 · 6.3%
International
53 · 6.2%
Black
45 · 5.3%
Asian
2 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
1.9%
18–19
45.6%
20–21
35.5%
22–24
12.2%
25 and over
4.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.6%
22–24
21.5%
25–29
53.6%
30–34
11.0%
35 and over
13.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Rocky Mountain College in 2023

The student demographics at Rocky Mountain College in 2023 highlight a significant diversity among the student body, particularly in terms of gender representation and racial/ethnic composition. Among undergraduate freshmen, there is a balanced gender ratio, with males constituting approximately 51.3% and females at 48.7%. This trend continues among undergraduate juniors, where 51.6% are male and 48.4% are female, suggesting a consistent pattern of gender parity in these cohorts.

In contrast, the graduate student population reflects a stark difference, with only 24.9% males and a remarkable 75.1% females. This indicates a growing trend of female representation in graduate studies, aligning with national trends that show increasing female enrollment in higher education, especially in graduate programs.

The racial composition further underscores the college's commitment to diversity. Although specific data on racial subcategories for undergraduate juniors and graduate students is not provided, the available data shows that among freshmen, the majority are white, followed by other racial groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students. This aligns with broader societal movements advocating for inclusivity and representation in educational institutions.

Overall, Rocky Mountain College appears to foster a diverse and inclusive environment, which is critical in today’s educational landscape. As institutions across the country continue to address equity and representation, the trends observed here may serve as a model for other colleges aiming to enhance their student demographics.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Rocky Mountain College

The age demographic data from Rocky Mountain College reveals intriguing insights into the student population's composition for 2023. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, representing a significant portion of the undergraduate population. Specifically, students aged 18-19 account for approximately 28% of the total student body, while those aged 20-21 contribute another 24%. This trend aligns with the typical college demographic, where younger students dominate, reflecting the increasing trend of high school graduates pursuing higher education immediately after graduation.

Interestingly, the data shows a stark contrast in the graduate programs. Students aged 25-29 form a notable group among the graduate population, particularly female students, who display a higher presence in this age bracket. This may signify a growing trend of individuals returning to education later in life, possibly for career advancement or shifts in professional paths, which has been a common narrative in recent years as workforce dynamics evolve.

Moreover, the representation of older age groups, such as those aged 30-39 and beyond, remains minimal, indicating that the college primarily attracts younger individuals. However, the presence of students in their 30s and 40s suggests that the institution also accommodates non-traditional students, which is essential in today’s diverse educational landscape.

Overall, the age distribution at Rocky Mountain College illustrates a vibrant mix of traditional and non-traditional students, essential for fostering a diverse learning environment. These insights can inform future recruitment strategies and support services, ensuring that the college meets the varied needs of its student body.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates6.2%

53 in 2025 · 4.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.2%2017: 3.6%2018: 3.7%2019: 3.6%2020: 3.6%2021: 3.8%2022: 5.3%2023: 5.4%2024: 5.7%2025: 6.2%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.6%

1 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.7%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.6%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Rocky Mountain College

The data from Rocky Mountain College reveals intriguing trends in international student enrollment over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international students in undergraduate programs has fluctuated significantly. Notably, the peak occurred in 2005, with 7.08% of undergraduates being international students, while the lowest point was in 2009 at 3.77%. This variance highlights the changing landscape of global education and student mobility, possibly influenced by geopolitical factors, economic conditions, and institutional policies.

In graduate programs, the representation of international students appears to be particularly low. For instance, in 2008, there was only one international graduate student, yielding a mere 1.92% representation. The absence of consistent data for subsequent years makes it challenging to draw comprehensive conclusions, but the figures suggest that graduate programs at Rocky Mountain College have not attracted international students as effectively as the undergraduate programs.

The overall trend suggests that Rocky Mountain College has experienced challenges in maintaining a stable international student population, particularly in graduate studies. This decline could be attributed to increased competition from other institutions, changing visa policies, or shifts in international student interest toward different regions or programs.

Given the increasing globalization of education, it is imperative for institutions like Rocky Mountain College to adopt strategic initiatives to enhance their appeal to international students. Building partnerships with overseas institutions, providing tailored support services, and actively marketing their programs can significantly improve their international enrollment figures. As the world recovers from the pandemic, now is an opportune time for the college to reinvigorate its international student outreach efforts.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$45,734

Undergraduate tuition
$35,582
Room and board
$10,152
Graduate tuition
$38,974
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$34.0M

Tuition and fees
$19.1M56.1%
Investment return
$6.0M17.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.3M12.6%
Government grants and contracts
$2.2M6.4%
Gifts and private grants
$2.0M5.8%
Other
$511K1.5%

Expenses$29.8M

Instruction
$11.3M38.0%
Student services
$7.5M25.2%
Institutional support
$4.8M16.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.7M12.4%
Academic support
$2.5M8.4%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$62,188peers $68,006
Professor
$72,529peers $78,041
Associate professor
$59,908peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$64,038peers $63,827
Instructor
$42,721peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference

Frontier Conference: football, basketball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football135-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5151
Basketball3232
Soccer2828
Volleyball-30
Golf1414
Skiing1212
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football135-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5555
Basketball2828
Soccer2626
Golf1313
Skiing1313
Volleyball-22
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football130-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5555
Basketball2828
Soccer2626
Volleyball-28
Golf1313
Skiing1313

Nearby & Safety

Data insights

Here are some notable colleges and universities near Rocky Mountain College:

  1. University of Utah - Ranked 115 in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Utah is a comprehensive university known for its research programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Brigham Young University - This university holds a rank of 115 in the 2024 US News rankings. It is a private university known for its strong emphasis on moral and ethical values, alongside a robust academic environment.

  3. University of Colorado Boulder - With a ranking of 105, the University of Colorado Boulder is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong programs in engineering, business, and environmental sciences.

  4. Gonzaga University - Ranked 93, Gonzaga University is a private institution known for its rigorous academic programs and a strong emphasis on community service and social justice.

  5. Colorado School of Mines - This university ranks 76 and specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in energy and natural resources.

  6. Whitman College - A liberal arts college ranked 46, Whitman College is renowned for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.

  7. United States Air Force Academy - Ranking 7, this prestigious institution provides a unique blend of military training and academic excellence.

  8. Colorado College - With a ranking of 33, Colorado College offers a distinctive block plan allowing students to immerse themselves in one course at a time.

These institutions contribute to a rich educational landscape surrounding Rocky Mountain College, offering various programs and opportunities for students.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
69
Drug referrals
10
Rape
6
Weapons referrals
5
Motor vehicle theft
4
Aggravated assault
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Rocky Mountain College

The crime statistics at Rocky Mountain College over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in campus safety and criminal incidents. From the data, we can observe a significant spike in the average crime rate per 1,000 students in 2015, with a staggering rate of 40.32. This peak raises concerns about student safety and the effectiveness of preventive measures during that year.

Following the 2015 peak, there was a notable decline in crime rates, particularly in 2016 when the rate dropped to 20.87. However, the years that followed saw fluctuating rates, with incidents related to drug arrests and alcohol-related offenses contributing significantly to the totals. In 2021, the crime rate fell to 13.81, indicating some improvement, but the increase to 16.26 in 2022 suggests that challenges remain.

Moreover, the data indicates that incidents of gun arrests have consistently been a concern, although specific numbers for other types of offenses like domestic violence, robbery, and stalking are not detailed. The variation in crime rates highlights the need for continuous monitoring and enhanced safety measures on campus.

Overall, while Rocky Mountain College has made progress in managing crime, the fluctuations in the data point to ongoing challenges that require attention. It is essential for the administration to analyze these trends closely and implement strategies aimed at enhancing student safety and reducing crime rates. For further details on how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Rocky Mountain College include Jason Earles (Actor known for Hannah Montana), Arlo Guthrie (Folk singer-songwriter, son of Woody Guthrie) and Kathlyn Williams (Early silent film actress).

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.