Online Nursing Programs in Montana: Choosing the Right School
Ready to start nursing school in Montana? Use this guide to better understand what to expect on the path to becoming a nurse, the types of nursing programs Montana has to offer, and what to expect after graduation and beyond. Review salary info, compare top schools, and more.
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Inside Online Nursing Programs in Montana
For prospective nursing students who prefer online coursework, Montana offers hybrid nursing programs which combine virtual classroom instruction with practical, face-to-face training through in-person clinicals, internships, or practicums.
While this style of learning may not work for everyone, the flexibility of hybrid programs allows students to tailor their education to best fit their needs by offering the ability to choose:
- Location: Face-to-face training can be done in a number of different clinical settings, including your current workplace.
- Schedule: Both weekday and weekend options are typically offered.
- Learning Format: Coursework can either be completed at set times (synchronous) or on your own schedule (asynchronous).
Let’s dive deeper into the various levels of nursing degrees and take a look at some of Montana’s top programs.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
For anyone interested in becoming a nurse, undergraduate programs provide a solid foundation by teaching basic nursing principles, hands-on clinical skills, and safe patient care practices. Furthermore, students can gain critical insight to help guide future career planning.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Becoming a CNA is one of the most efficient ways to enter the field of nursing. These programs help you learn basic patient care skills and often can help you get your foot in the door.
Example: Montana Technological University Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Cost: $1,450
- Length: 75 hours (50 hours online classroom instruction, 2-day weekend skills lab, 25 hours clinical instruction)
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Start building your nursing career with a strong foundation as a Licensed Practical Nurse. LPN programs tend to be slightly shorter than an associate degree and can often bridge to an RN or BSN. LPNs may choose to work in a variety of settings while pursuing their RN or BSN.
- Cost: $6,060/semester (12+ credits – cost includes tuition/fees, books, supplies & other course materials)
- Length: 40 credits (3 semesters of 13-14 credits each)
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program (also called an Associate of Science in Nursing or ASN) is the quickest way for students with no prior healthcare experience to become Registered Nurses. Most ADN programs last just two years and provide individuals with the classroom education and clinical experience needed to pass the NCLEX-RN exam after graduation.
Example: Miles Community College Associate of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $203/credit hour (in Custer County), $263/credit hour in-state
- Length: 5 semesters (72 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Accelerated BSN programs are like traditional BSN programs in terms of content, but are designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to obtain their BSN within two years or less. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: University of Providence Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $1,126/credit hour
- Length: 12 months (54 credits)
- Mode: Hybrid
Graduate-Level Nursing Programs
Are you curious about becoming a nurse practitioner or taking a stronger role in nursing leadership or education? If so, pursuing an advanced degree such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctorate in Nursing, or obtaining a post-master’s nursing certificate might be the right choice for you.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The standard MSN program takes around one to three years to complete and is designed for BSN-prepared nurses looking to increase their knowledge in a specific area. Depending on the chosen degree track, graduates are better suited for roles in leadership, education or informatics, and may also become Nurse Practitioners.
Example: Montana State University Master of Nursing Degree
- Cost: $467/credit hour (in-state residents)
- Length: 42 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Doctoral nursing programs are considered the pinnacle of nurse training and education, but DNP and PhD programs have a few key differences. DNP programs offer more hands-on training and leadership development and are ideal for practicing nurses who want advanced clinical or management skills. PhD programs focus on research and theory, well suited for future nurse educators at the postsecondary level.
Example: Montana State University Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Cost: $470.69/credit hour
- Length: 3 years (full-time), 4 years (part-time)
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-master’s Certificate Programs
Post-graduate certificates programs are intended for advanced degree nurses looking to shift to a specialized area or concentration. These programs offer formal training to allow nurses to expand their knowledge without having to embark on another full degree.
Example: University of Providence Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Concentration Certificate
- Cost: $1,044/credit hour
- Length: 23 credits and 90 practicum hours
- Mode: Hybrid
Nursing Bridge Programs
Bridge programs are a great tool for students who have already earned a certification, license, or degree in nursing and want to build their knowledge base. These programs allow students to move through coursework and clinicals at a much quicker pace by eliminating educational and experiential redundancies.
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN programs are designed for licensed practical nurses who want to become registered nurses. By recognizing the education and hands-on experience already achieved by LPNs, bridge programs expediate the path towards an RN license which helps save them both time and money.
Example: University of Montana Missoula College LPN to RN Program
- Cost: $698.50/credit hour
- Length: One year
- Mode: Hybrid
RN to BSN
RN to BSN bridge programs are designed for working RNs who have only an associate degree and wish to expand their nursing education. In many cases, earning a BSN also opens up a number of job opportunities that graduates would not have otherwise qualified for.
Example: Salish Kootenai College RN to BSN Program
- Cost: $87 – $299/credit hour (depending on residency & heritage status)
- Length: 6 quarters part time, 3 quarters full time
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
BSN to DNP programs are for those with a BSN seeking to earn their DNP more efficiently. These programs simplify the process by bundling both master’s and doctorate-level coursework into one degree path, allowing students to complete it much quicker.
Example: Montana State University Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Family Nurse Practitioner Option
- Cost: $467/credit hour
- Length: 82 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Information & Requirements for RNs in Montana
The general requirements for becoming an RN in Montana are governed by the Montana Board of Nursing. Like most states, students must first graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam before applying for licensure. These steps and beyond are detailed below.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
Before becoming an RN in Montana, you need the necessary formal training from an accredited RN program that’s been approved by the Montana Board of Nursing. You can confirm which programs have this approval through the Montana Board of Nursing.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Prior to registering for the NCLEX-RN, you must complete the Licensure by Examination application, submit supporting documentation, and pay $100 to the Montana Board of Nursing.
Once approved, you’ll receive an ATT or Authorization to Test which makes you eligible to register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE. The exam fee is $200, and after passing the test, your scores will be sent to the Montana Board of Nursing within 10-14 days.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
In order to finish the process of licensure, applicants will also need to submit fingerprints and pass a criminal background check. This can be done while in the process of working on your licensure application, but it’s important to remember that the Board must have your completed RN application within six months of receiving your fingerprint results.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
RN licenses expire every two years on December 31st and must be renewed. Renewal requirements include completing 24 hours of continuing education during the two-year period and paying a renewal fee of $100 to the Montana Board of Nursing.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Specialty certifications are a great option for seasoned nurses who find themselves drawn to a specific area of nursing such as pediatrics, critical care, or ambulatory care. While these often require additional coursework and passing a specialty exam, earning one can improve confidence, enhance job opportunities, and increase salary potential. Check out our quiz to see if there’s a specialty that might be a good fit for you!
Career & Salary Outlook for RNs in Montana
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $67,720 | $81,560 | $109,450 |
| Billings, MT | $67,720 | $85,580 | $109,450 |
| Bozeman, MT | $77,750 | $86,000 | $119,220 |
| Great Falls, MT | $65,830 | $75,470 | $99,140 |
| Helena, MT | $70,250 | $87,630 | $124,300 |
| Missoula, MT | $68,720 | $79,210 | $101,580 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Montana | 10,360 | 11,890 | 1,530 | 14.80% | 750 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Top Online Nursing Schools in Montana
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $19,625 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Providence
- The University of Providence Nursing program offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing that blends online learning with in-person skill labs and clinical immersions for flexible, efficient completion.
- Students benefit from a cohort-based RN to BSN degree-completion track designed for working RNs, with courses offered one day per week and faculty-led nursing instruction integrating evidence-based practice.
- The program emphasizes developing professional nurse leaders equipped to manage healthcare change, with a curriculum grounded in compassion, ethics, patient safety vigilance, and collaborative inter-professional practice.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $19,625 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $9,477 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Montana State University
- The Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing offers five campuses across Montana, allowing students to rank campus preferences and providing diverse geographic options for clinical experiences and education.
- The program provides a dedicated support program specifically for Native American students, promoting inclusivity and cultural support within nursing education.
- The College emphasizes rural primary care nursing, preparing students to meet critical healthcare needs in underserved rural communities with specialized curriculum and clinical placements.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $9,477 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $8,199 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected The University of Montana
- Montana State University's Nursing program offers a fully online RN to BSN completion pathway with flexible start dates and locally mentored clinical hours, enabling students to balance study with current employment and community engagement.
- The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Montana State Board of Nursing, ensuring graduates are prepared for leadership roles, advanced clinical practices, and graduate education.
- The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) online program at Montana State University-Bozeman includes specialized tracks such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse-Midwifery, with clinical practicums completed at approved healthcare sites near the student's location, promoting accessibility without relocation.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $8,199 Avg. Aid Amount
- 44% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Montana State University Billings
Billings, MTProgram Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $2,541 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Montana State University Billings
- Montana State University Billings Nursing program offers clinical placements in students' local communities, allowing for hands-on experience close to home and reducing travel burdens.
- The Practical Nursing certificate features a hybrid model with online coursework combined with limited, intensive on-campus lab days, balancing flexibility with essential in-person training.
- The program includes a competitive application process ensuring committed cohort selection and provides comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam, supporting strong exam readiness.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $2,541 Avg. Aid Amount
- 30% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 14/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,466 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Montana Technological University
- Montana Tech's Nursing program maintains exceptional NCLEX-RN pass rates of 95-100%, significantly above state and national averages, highlighting strong student success in licensure.
- The program supports student-athletes uniquely by providing a dedicated nursing advisor to balance demanding clinical coursework and athletics, enabling continued athletic participation during rigorous study.
- Montana Tech offers advanced simulation training with specialized rooms including simulation, debriefing, telehealth, and medication areas, enhancing realistic clinical preparation in diverse healthcare scenarios.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,466 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $1,225 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 6/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Salish Kootenai College
- Salish Kootenai College Nursing program features small faculty-to-student ratios and patient-centered clinical placements in diverse rural and urban healthcare settings, enhancing personalized learning and hands-on experience.
- The program maintains high standards with goals of at least 85% NCLEX first-time pass rate and 90% job placement within six months of graduation, demonstrating strong outcomes for licensure and employment.
- SKC Nursing is nationally recognized for leading in graduating Native American Registered Nurses and supporting students with individualized education tailored to rural and tribal community healthcare needs.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $1,225 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 6/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,802 Avg. Aid Amount
- 17% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Blackfeet Community College
- The BFCC Nursing program offers high clinical placement rates in diverse healthcare settings, ensuring practical, hands-on experience for students.
- It provides strong employer partnerships, enhancing job placement opportunities upon graduation through connections with local hospitals and healthcare providers.
- Students benefit from personalized faculty expertise and mentorship, supporting a comprehensive learning environment tailored to individual career goals.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $3,802 Avg. Aid Amount
- 17% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $5,736 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Miles Community College
- Miles Community College’s Nursing Program offers strong community and healthcare facility partnerships in Eastern Montana, facilitating hands-on clinical experiences and workforce connections.
- The program emphasizes preparing students comprehensively to pass the NCLEX boards and earn RN licensure, ensuring career readiness upon graduation.
- The nursing curriculum includes specialized clinical courses focused on advanced patient care skills like ECG interpretation and complex pharmacologic regimens, enhancing critical care competencies.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $5,736 Avg. Aid Amount
- 52% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,208 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Montana State University-Northern
- MSU-Northern’s Nursing program offers small class sizes with personalized mentoring and one-on-one tutoring from experienced faculty, enhancing individual student success.
- The program provides advanced hands-on training through state-of-the-art simulation labs including virtual reality (Meta Quest VR) and an Advanced Stroke Life Support Training Center, preparing students for complex clinical scenarios.
- The RN-BSN Completion program’s online format enables working nurses to advance their education while maintaining employment and residency in their communities, supporting flexible career progression.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $4,208 Avg. Aid Amount
- 34% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $26,961 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carroll College
- The Carroll College Nursing BSN program features the E.L. Wiegand Nursing Simulation Center, offering high-fidelity simulation experiences from sophomore year to reduce graduate performance anxiety in clinical settings.
- Students gain approximately 850 hours of diverse clinical experience starting in their first semester, including hospitals, public health, long-term care, and psychiatric facilities, ensuring readiness for professional nursing roles.
- The program offers multiple entry options including an accelerated nursing track for post-baccalaureate students, allowing flexible pathways tailored to students' backgrounds and career timelines.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $26,961 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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