Rocky Mountain College
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
- Also known as
- RMC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Church of Christ
- President
- Dr. Robert Wilmouth (President)
- Phone
- 4066571000
- Address
- 1511 Poly Drive, Billings, MT 59102-1796
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant. | $126,662 | |||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | $79,737 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Accounting and Business/Management. | - | |||
| Small Business Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew. | $54,109 | |||
| Aviation/Airway Management and Operations. | $54,109 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $35,762 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $26,110 | |||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $26,110 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $26,110 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $30,994 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geography. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - | |||
| General Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
Students
1,032 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 69.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 517
- First-year undergraduates 280
- Graduate students 181
- Transfers and others 54
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (851)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
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.
53 in 2025 · 4.2% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$29.8M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Frontier Conference
Frontier Conference: football, basketball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 135 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 51 | 51 |
| Basketball | 32 | 32 |
| Soccer | 28 | 28 |
| Volleyball | - | 30 |
| Golf | 14 | 14 |
| Skiing | 12 | 12 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 135 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 55 |
| Basketball | 28 | 28 |
| Soccer | 26 | 26 |
| Golf | 13 | 13 |
| Skiing | 13 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 130 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 55 | 55 |
| Basketball | 28 | 28 |
| Soccer | 26 | 26 |
| Volleyball | - | 28 |
| Golf | 13 | 13 |
| Skiing | 13 | 13 |
Nearby & Safety
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Rocky Mountain College:
-
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Colorado School of Mines - This university ranks 76 and specializes in engineering and applied sciences, particularly in energy and natural resources.
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Whitman College - A liberal arts college ranked 46, Whitman College is renowned for its small class sizes and strong emphasis on undergraduate education.
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United States Air Force Academy - Ranking 7, this prestigious institution provides a unique blend of military training and academic excellence.
-
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.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private 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
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).
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Jason Earles 1977–
Actor known for Hannah Montana
-
Arlo Guthrie 1947–
Folk singer-songwriter, son of Woody Guthrie
-
Kathlyn Williams 1879–1960
Early silent film actress
-
Lane Chandler 1899–1972
Actor known mainly for Westerns
-
Bill Bowers 1959–
Mime artist and actor
-
Tim Holmes 1955–
Sculptor, filmmaker and musician
-
Chris Horn 1977–
Former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver
-
Theresa Rose Bajt 1956–
Miss Montana 1977 and clinical psychologist
-
J. Timothy Hunt 1959–
Journalist, author and children's writer
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.