Montana State University has been named the top college in Montana for 2026 by research.com, a website that publishes annual rankings of colleges and universities across the United States. In addition to this recognition, MSU was also ranked as the most affordable and best value college in Montana, and placed fourth as the most popular college in the state.
On a broader scale, MSU was ranked fifth for affordability among colleges in the western United States and eighteenth nationwide.
The rankings note MSU’s status as a public land-grant university serving Montanans, highlighting its strengths in agriculture, natural resource management, engineering, and research expenditures across many disciplines. The university’s location in Bozeman, near Yellowstone National Park and other natural attractions, is also mentioned.
According to research.com, their rankings are based on quantitative data from independent sources rather than surveys or opinion polls.
MSU has previously earned Carnegie R1 classification for “very high” research activity and doctoral education. In the 2024-25 academic year, the university reported $288.7 million in research expenditures. MSU has experienced significant enrollment growth recently, becoming the first institution in Montana to surpass 17,000 students in 2024. The university reports strong graduation rates and student retention. It is also noted as Bozeman’s largest employer and one of the top employers statewide.
Additional distinctions include regular placement among the top three military-friendly schools by militaryfriendly.com and ranking within the top 3.7% of institutions evaluated by the Center for World University Rankings.
More details about MSU’s academic programs can be found at https://www.montana.edu/academics/, while prospective students can apply at https://www.montana.edu/apply/.
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