Salish Kootenai College
Out-of-state tuition
$11,583
In-state $6,399
Peer median $3,980
Undergraduates
636
Student-faculty ratio 6:1
Peer median 10 : 1
Graduation rate
22.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 33.3%
“Peers” are all 30 public tribal colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Salish Kootenai College (SKC) is a tribal college located in Pablo, Montana, on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Established in 1977, SKC is dedicated to providing higher education that reflects the values, culture, and traditions of Native American communities. The college offers a unique blend of academic programs that include degrees in fields such as business administration, environmental sciences, and Native American studies, all designed to equip students with the skills necessary for both professional success and community service. The college’s commitment to cultural heritage is evident in its curriculum, which often incorporates indigenous perspectives and teachings.
The campus environment at Salish Kootenai College is characterized by a strong sense of community and support. With a student body that includes a significant number of Native American students, SKC fosters an inclusive atmosphere where students can explore their cultural identities while pursuing their educational goals. The college emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships and hands-on projects that connect them with local communities. SKC also boasts a variety of student organizations and extracurricular activities, promoting a vibrant campus life that encourages personal development and leadership skills. Overall, Salish Kootenai College stands out as a crucial institution for promoting higher education within Native communities, helping to empower students through knowledge and cultural appreciation.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Salish Kootenai College
Salish Kootenai College has exhibited significant trends in various metrics over the years, particularly in graduation rates, student enrollment, and retention rates. The graduation rate for on-time completion of undergraduate programs has fluctuated dramatically; for instance, it dropped to just 5% in 2015 but saw an increase to 43% in 2021, only to fall to 15% in 2023. Such variability raises concerns about program effectiveness and support for students, suggesting the need for targeted interventions to improve outcomes.
Student enrollment has also seen a downward trend, declining from 906 in 2013 to 591 in 2023. This decline could be a reflection of changing demographics, economic factors, or perhaps the institution's ability to attract and retain students. Notably, the college's gender ratio is skewed towards a higher female population, with women comprising approximately 71% of undergraduate students by 2023. Such gender disparity may influence the campus culture and availability of resources tailored to diverse student needs.
Retention rates, which indicate the percentage of students who continue their studies, have been inconsistent as well, with a notable peak of 71% in 2016 but dropping to 50% by 2023. This decline is concerning, as it suggests that students may be facing challenges that lead them to leave before completing their degrees. A closer examination of support services and academic advising could be beneficial in addressing these issues.
Lastly, the tuition rates for in-state undergraduate students have remained relatively stable, only increasing slightly from $6,279 in 2014 to $6,399 in 2023. However, the overall affordability of education remains a crucial factor for prospective students, especially given the rising costs of living. Balancing affordability with the quality of education is essential for the college to thrive in the future. Addressing these key metrics holistically will be vital for Salish Kootenai College as it continues to navigate the challenges of higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Spokane, about 150 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Spokane International Airport (GEG), about 160 mi
- Also known as
- SKC
- Academic calendar
- Quarter
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Michael Munson (President)
- Phone
- 4062754931
- Address
- 58138 US Highway 93, Pablo, MT 59855
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Salish Kootenai College
The graduation data from Salish Kootenai College for 2023 reveals significant insights into the educational trends and focus areas of students at the institution. Notably, the highest number of graduates, particularly in the bachelor's degree category, comes from the fields of Business Administration and Management, as well as Environmental Resources Production and Management. This aligns with the current job market trends where there is a growing demand for professionals in both the business and environmental sectors.
Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of international students graduating in various disciplines, indicating a potential area for growth. Enhancing international student recruitment could diversify the academic environment and foster a richer cultural exchange. Additionally, the absence of master's and doctorate graduates in most fields suggests that the college may need to develop its graduate programs to meet the educational aspirations of its students, particularly in high-demand areas like healthcare and technology.
Moreover, the presence of associate degree graduations in education and health-related programs points to a strong foundation being laid for future bachelor's degree pursuits in these fields. This trend may reflect the increasing emphasis on early childhood education and healthcare, as communities seek qualified professionals to fill essential roles.
In conclusion, while Salish Kootenai College shows promising figures in specific areas, there is an opportunity for growth and enhancement in attracting international students and expanding graduate programs to better meet the evolving demands of the workforce. This could ultimately position the college as a leading educational institution within the region.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Project Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling. | - | |||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $67,847 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bilingual and Multilingual Education. | - | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy, General. | - | |||
| Forest Resources Production and Management. | - | |||
| Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Computer Programming/Programmer, General. | - | |||
| Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Preservation and Conservation, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
Students
671 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 31:69 · Freshman retention 82.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 391
- First-year undergraduates 139
- Graduate students 35
- Transfers and others 106
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (636)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Salish Kootenai College in 2023
The student population at Salish Kootenai College in 2023 reflects a diverse landscape, particularly among undergraduate students. With 78 new freshmen enrolled, the gender distribution indicates a significant female majority, with 65.4% identifying as women compared to 34.6% men. This trend continues among the returning undergraduate students, where 400 students show an even more pronounced female representation at 74.3%.
The transition students, numbering 36, also exhibit a majority of female students at 69.4%. This pattern is interesting, especially considering the historical context of gender representation in higher education, which has seen women's participation increase over the years.
In terms of graduate students, the total of 28 reveals a similar trend, with 75% of the cohort being women. This could suggest a broader shift in educational pursuits and career aspirations within the demographics of the college community.
Regarding racial and ethnic diversity, the data indicates that white students constitute a significant portion of the student body in all categories, though detailed breakdowns are not available for all groups. Notably, the representation of students from different backgrounds is crucial for enriching the educational experience and fostering an inclusive environment.
Overall, Salish Kootenai College's 2023 student demographics illustrate a growing female presence across various student categories, alongside an ongoing commitment to diversity in education. This trend may reflect broader societal changes and the college’s initiatives to support and empower underrepresented groups in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Salish Kootenai College
The age composition of students at Salish Kootenai College in 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment across different age groups. The data shows that the majority of students are concentrated in the 18-24 age range, which is consistent with national trends in higher education where younger students typically make up a significant portion of the student body. Among these, the 22-24 age group appears to be the largest, indicating a robust number of students who may be pursuing their undergraduate studies during this phase of their life.
Interestingly, there is a notable absence of graduate male students across all age categories, which may suggest a potential gap in graduate enrollment for males at the college. In contrast, the number of undergraduate females outnumbers their male counterparts significantly, particularly in the 25-29 age group, where there are 66 females compared to only 26 males. This discrepancy raises questions about the factors influencing these enrollment patterns, such as societal trends, career choices, or support systems available for female students.
Additionally, the representation of older students (ages 30 and above) remains relatively modest, with only a handful of students enrolled in these categories. This could reflect the challenges faced by non-traditional students, such as work and family commitments, which may limit their ability to pursue higher education.
Overall, the data from Salish Kootenai College provides a snapshot of the student demographic landscape, highlighting both the strengths and areas for potential growth in attracting a more diverse student body across various age groups and gender identities.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 30 public tribal colleges in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Data at Salish Kootenai College
The absence of data regarding international students at Salish Kootenai College presents a unique opportunity to reflect on the broader context of international education in the United States. As institutions strive to diversify their student populations, understanding the dynamics of international enrollment has never been more vital.
International students contribute significantly to the cultural and academic environment of colleges and universities. They bring diverse perspectives, foster global understanding, and enhance the overall learning experience for all students. However, the challenges faced by these students, including visa regulations, financial constraints, and cultural adjustments, cannot be overlooked.
Moreover, recent trends indicate a fluctuating interest in studying in the U.S. due to various geopolitical factors, including changes in immigration policies and global health crises. These factors can directly impact enrollment figures, as prospective students weigh their options for higher education.
Salish Kootenai College, known for its commitment to serving Native American communities, could benefit from a strategic approach to attracting international students. By developing targeted outreach programs and partnerships with institutions abroad, the college can enhance its global presence while providing its students with valuable cross-cultural experiences.
In conclusion, while the current lack of specific data on international students at Salish Kootenai College limits our understanding, it highlights the importance of fostering a diverse academic community. Educational institutions must continue to adapt and respond to the evolving landscape of international education to ensure a rich and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$18,603
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,583
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $6,399
- Room and board
- $7,020
- Graduate tuition
- $9,318
Peer median tuition + room and board $11,737 · all 30 public tribal colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 1% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 1%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$36.0M
Expenses$31.2M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 30 public tribal colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
| Independent | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 10 | 10 |
| Independent | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 10 | 10 |
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IdahoMoscow · 149.0 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Gonzaga UniversitySpokane · 153.2 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Washington State UniversityPullman · 155.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Whitman CollegeWalla Walla · 225.7 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
Boise State UniversityBoise · 293.9 mi
U.S. News #299
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Salish Kootenai College:
-
University of Idaho: Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Idaho is a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Gonzaga University: This university is ranked 93rd and is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, along with excellent programs in business, law, and engineering.
-
Washington State University: With a rank of 178, Washington State University is a comprehensive institution offering diverse academic programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
Whitman College: A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 46th, Whitman College is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on student-faculty engagement.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus: Ranked 40th, this is a leading public research university offering a wide array of programs and a vibrant urban campus.
-
Seattle University: This university is ranked 163rd and is recognized for its commitment to social justice and community service, alongside its comprehensive academic offerings.
-
University of Utah: Ranked 115th, the University of Utah offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
These institutions provide a diverse range of educational opportunities and can be great choices for students in the region.
Peer median 0.0 · all 30 public tribal colleges 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Salish Kootenai College
The data from Salish Kootenai College reflects a significant decline in crime rates over the past decade. Starting with a crime rate of 30.46 incidents per 1,000 students in 2013, the rates showed a gradual decrease, reaching a notable low of 0.00 in 2022. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including increased campus security measures, community outreach programs, and heightened awareness around safety protocols.
The various types of crimes reported, including gun-related arrests and drug offenses, indicate that the college has faced typical challenges seen on many campuses. However, the consistently low figures in recent years suggest that the institution has made strides in creating a safer environment for students. Notably, incidents of domestic violence and sexual assault have become areas of focus for educational institutions nationwide, and the absence of such crimes in recent reports is a positive indicator for the campus community.
The spike in crime rates observed in 2014 could be linked to a variety of situational factors, but the overall trend of decreasing crime rates is encouraging. It is essential to maintain this momentum by continuing to promote a culture of safety and support, ensuring that students feel secure both on and off campus. As we see improvements in campus safety statistics, it is also crucial to remain vigilant and proactive to prevent any future rise in crime rates.
For additional insights on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.