Montana’s leading universities are celebrating a rise in enrollment, as shown in the recently released fall numbers. Montana State University in Bozeman reported a slight increase in student headcount, marking the second year with over 17,100 students, making it the largest institution in a region that includes Wyoming and the Dakotas. The University of Montana also announced an increase, with 11,064 students enrolled this semester, driven by growth at Missoula College and the graduate school.
MSU President Brock Tessman expressed gratitude for the rising enrollment, emphasizing the university’s commitment to providing quality education and resources. In Missoula, UM President Seth Bodnar highlighted the support and success students find at UM, stating, “Students choose UM because they will succeed here, our Griz community will support them, and we will help them launch a meaningful career and lead a fulfilling life.”
Missoula College, part of UM, saw a 17% growth over fall 2024, as noted in UM’s census data. The university’s graduate school hit a record with 2,910 students, making it the state’s largest, while the law school increased enrollment by 4% to 280 students. UM has recorded over 11,000 students for the first time since 2017, reversing a decade-long decline prior to 2021.
Both institutions reported large intakes of first-time college students, with MSU welcoming 3,743 and UM 3,621 new students. In-state students form the majority, with 69% of UM’s students and half of MSU’s being Montanans. Both schools are addressing workforce needs through expanded offerings at their two-year colleges and non-credit courses.
Gallatin College MSU recorded an enrollment of 1,078, marking the second consecutive year over 1,000. Provost Robert Mokwa stated, “The growth we’re seeing this fall reflects the confidence students and families place in Montana State University.” UM served 10,387 individuals in noncredit courses last year, aimed at helping learners “re-skill, upskill or change careers,” according to Bodnar.
MSU Fall Enrollment Highlights
- 3,743 new first-time college students, including 1,572 from Montana
- Record 15,142 undergraduates and 2,023 graduate students
- Record enrollment of 1,124 Hispanic and 153 Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander students, along with 848 Native American/Alaska Native students
- 81.8% retention rate, measuring students returning for a second fall
- 21% increase in students receiving veteran benefits, totaling 700
UM’s fall census data reveals 259 more graduate students than last year and a record 77.2% retention rate, an increase of nine points since 2018. The university reported a 40% rise in Native American student enrollment since 2018, and a significant number of first-generation college students.
President Bodnar noted that these achievements reflect a focus on student success, transforming the economic future for many Montana families. “Our No. 1 priority is to place student success at the center of all we do,” he said.
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