Montana Geography Degree Programs

Montana offers geography students an exceptional learning environment, combining rigorous academic training with the state’s vast natural landscapes. Programs at Montana State University, the University of Montana, and Rocky Mountain College prepare students for careers in GIS, cartography, urban planning, and environmental science. With opportunities for fieldwork in places like Glacier National Park and the Yellowstone River watershed, students gain practical skills in spatial analysis, environmental research, and community planning. Graduate students benefit from research-driven programs, assistantships, and flexible admissions policies, while undergraduates enjoy small class sizes and interdisciplinary approaches.

This page provides detailed program profiles, affordability comparisons, and highlights of specialized study areas available across Montana. Visitors will find side-by-side comparisons of bachelor’s and master’s programs, tuition ranges, admission requirements, and career outcomes. The guide also explains which schools focus on field-based research, GIS technology, or human and environmental geography, making it easier for prospective students to align their academic and career goals with the right program. By showcasing both affordable pathways and advanced research opportunities, this page helps students make informed choices about geography education in Montana.

2026 Best Geography Degree Programs in Montana

Looking for the best geography degree programs in Montana? You have come to the right place. At geographydegrees.org, we carefully rank these programs to help you make a smart choice. Our rankings highlight schools that offer strong courses, experienced teachers, and good career support. We focus on what matters to students like you. Whether you want to study environmental science, mapping, or human geography, our list points you to top options in the state. Check out our https://www.geographydegrees.org/ranking-methodology/ to learn how we create these rankings.

#1

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT - Public 4-Year - montana.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Earth Sciences

Concentration: Geography - Campus Based - Visit Website

Montana State University's Master of Science in Earth Sciences with a Geography concentration provides an immersive campus experience focused on advanced research and practical applications. This graduate program prepares students for diverse careers in academia, government, and industry through hands-on learning opportunities. Notably, the program does not require GRE scores for admission, making it more accessible. Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, with preference given to those maintaining a GPA above 3.0 and submitting strong recommendation letters. Financial support through teaching and research assistantships is available, with a January 15th deadline for priority consideration.

• Concentration in Geography
• Campus-based program
• No GRE required
• Competitive admission
• GPA above 3.0 favored
• Teaching Assistantships available
• Research Assistantships available
• January 15th deadline for aid
• Provisional admission option
• Focus on research interests

#2

Rocky Mountain College

Billings, MT - Private 4-year - rocky.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Geography

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rocky Mountain College's Bachelor of Science in Geography provides an interdisciplinary education that explores complex spatial relationships through human geography, geological sciences, and advanced GIS training. Students develop expertise in spatial analysis, cartography, and remote sensing, with unique fieldwork opportunities in the Yellowstone River watershed region. The program emphasizes practical applications through service-learning and internships, preparing graduates for careers in environmental planning and conservation. As a bachelor's degree program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission.

• Interdisciplinary geographic perspectives
• Advanced GIS and technology training
• Unique Yellowstone River watershed focus
• Field-work and service-learning opportunities
• Spatial research and analysis skills

*National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Honorable Mention:

University of Montana

Missoula, MT

https://www.umt.edu/academics/programs/geography/default.php

The Bachelor of Science in Geography at the University of Montana (UM) is a four-year, 120-credit program that integrates human and physical geography with cutting-edge geospatial science. Students gain expertise in areas such as mountain landscapes, community planning, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with field-based learning opportunities that leverage Montana’s unique natural environments.

Accreditation and Academic Excellence

UM is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring the program meets high academic standards. Faculty are internationally recognized experts, offering a globally informed yet locally relevant curriculum tailored to address pressing societal and environmental challenges.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum includes foundational courses in physical and human geography, GIS, and cartography, with advanced courses in environmental planning, transportation planning, and water policy. Field-based learning in iconic locations such as Glacier National Park enriches the student experience. The program culminates in a senior capstone project, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world contexts.

Career Outcomes and Job Placement

With 97% of W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation graduates employed or in graduate school, UM’s geography program prepares students for diverse careers such as GIS analysts, city planners, cartographers, and environmental consultants. Graduates report an average starting salary of $67,000, and geographers nationally earn a median salary of $81,540, according to U.S. News.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

UM offers robust financial support for geography students, including scholarships through the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation and the Franke Sustainability Fellowships for research and study abroad. These opportunities help reduce the cost of education and encourage hands-on learning.

Program Costs and Online Availability

Tuition varies by residency, with financial aid available to assist students. While the program is primarily in-person, certain courses may be offered in hybrid or online formats. State-of-the-art geospatial labs enhance learning for students specializing in GIS.

Additional Programs Offered

UM also offers related programs, including a Master’s in Geography, GIS Certificate, and minors in Community and Environmental Planning and Mountain Studies. These options allow students to further specialize and enhance their career prospects.

The Geography program at UM equips students with technical skills, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of human-environment interactions, preparing them for impactful careers in public and private sectors.

Choosing the Right School for You: A Montana Program Guide

Selecting the right geography program in Montana requires careful consideration of your academic goals, career aspirations, learning preferences, and financial situation. Montana offers unique geography education opportunities that leverage the state’s extraordinary natural landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, providing unparalleled contexts for geographic study and field research. Here’s a comprehensive analysis to help you determine which program aligns best with your objectives.

Consider Your Academic Level and Career Goals

Choose for Undergraduate Studies:

• Rocky Mountain College – Interdisciplinary BS program with unique Yellowstone River watershed focus
• Montana State University – BS in Earth Sciences with Geography emphasis and strong job placement (96% employment rate)
• University of Montana – BS in Geography with international faculty expertise (97% employment rate)

Choose for Graduate Studies:

• Montana State University – MS in Earth Sciences with Geography concentration
• University of Montana – Master’s in Geography program

Choose for Specialized Career Paths:

• Environmental careers – University of Montana (mountain landscapes, environmental planning)
• GIS and technology roles – All programs offer strong GIS training
• Urban planning – Montana State University or University of Montana
• Conservation and fieldwork – Rocky Mountain College (Yellowstone focus) or University of Montana

Evaluate Your Financial Situation

Most Affordable Options (In-State):

1. Montana State University – $5,900-$8,800 annually (graduate in-state)
2. University of Montana – Competitive public university rates
3. Rocky Mountain College – $26,600-$39,900 annually (private)

Best Value Considerations:

• Exceptional employment rates at all institutions (96-97%)
• Average starting salary of $67,000 for UM geography graduates
• National median salary of $81,540 for geographers
• Strong financial aid and scholarship opportunities at public universities
• Career-focused scholarships available in geography and environmental sciences

Financial Aid Opportunities:

• Teaching and Research Assistantships at Montana State University
• Franke Sustainability Fellowships at University of Montana
• Work-study opportunities at both public institutions
• January 15th deadline for financial aid consideration at MSU

Match Your Learning Preferences and Specializations

Field-Based Learning Emphasis:

• University of Montana – Field-based learning in Glacier National Park and Montana landscapes
• Rocky Mountain College – Yellowstone River watershed research focus
• Montana State University – Hands-on training with practical applications

Technology and GIS Focus:

• All programs offer strong GIS training with state-of-the-art labs
• University of Montana – Specialized geospatial labs
• Rocky Mountain College – Advanced GIS and spatial statistics training
• Montana State University – GIS Science and spatial analysis emphasis

Environmental and Physical Geography:

• University of Montana – Mountain landscapes and environmental planning specialization
• Montana State University – Physical geography and global systems
• Rocky Mountain College – Geological sciences integration

Human Geography and Planning:

• University of Montana – Community planning and transportation planning
• Montana State University – Urban planning and environmental management
• Rocky Mountain College – Human geography with interdisciplinary approach

Consider Program Structure and Academic Rigor

Accreditation and Quality Assurance:

• Both public universities accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• High academic standards ensured through rigorous accreditation
• Internationally recognized faculty at University of Montana

Program Flexibility:

• Montana State University – Flexible electives for career customization
• University of Montana – Multiple related programs and certificates available
• Rocky Mountain College – Interdisciplinary approach with service-learning

Capstone and Research Requirements:

• All programs require senior capstone projects
• Montana State University – Research or teaching assistantship opportunities
• University of Montana – Real-world application focus
• Rocky Mountain College – Field research and spatial analysis projects

Geographic and Environmental Advantages

Unique Research Opportunities:

• Rocky Mountain College – Yellowstone River watershed ecosystem studies
• University of Montana – Glacier National Park and mountain geography research
• Montana State University – Energy resource geography and water systems

Natural Laboratory Settings:

• Diverse ecosystems from mountains to plains
• Climate and weather studies in varied environments
• Geomorphology research opportunities
• Conservation and environmental management applications

Field Experience Advantages:

• Unparalleled outdoor classroom access
• Seasonal variation studies opportunities
• Wildlife and habitat geography research
• Rural-urban interface analysis

Career Preparation and Outcomes

Exceptional Employment Rates:

• Montana State University – 96% employment or continued education rate
• University of Montana – 97% employment or graduate school placement
• Strong regional and national job placement networks

Career Path Preparation:

• GIS analysts and cartographers – All programs provide technical training
• Environmental consultants – Strong environmental focus at all institutions
• City and regional planners – Planning emphasis at MSU and UM
• Conservation specialists – Field experience and environmental focus

Professional Development:

• Industry connections through internships and partnerships
• Professional networking opportunities
• Real-world project experience through capstone requirements

Admission Requirements and Accessibility

Graduate Program Requirements:

• Montana State University – Bachelor’s degree, GPA above 3.0 preferred, no GRE required
• Strong letters of recommendation emphasized
• January 15th deadline for financial aid consideration

Undergraduate Accessibility:

• Standard admission requirements at public universities
• Transfer credit options available
• Provisional admission available for background coursework completion

Unique Program Features

Montana State University:

• No GRE requirement for graduate admission
• Multiple Earth Sciences options (Geology, GIS/Planning, Paleontology, Snow Science)
• Strong job placement rankings in the state

University of Montana:

• Internationally recognized faculty expertise
• Multiple certificate and minor options (GIS Certificate, Mountain Studies)
• Robust scholarship programs including sustainability fellowships

Rocky Mountain College:

• Unique watershed focus on Yellowstone River system
• Small class sizes with personalized attention
• Interdisciplinary approach integrating multiple fields

Quick Decision Framework

Choose Montana State University if: You want graduate-level education with research/teaching assistantships and strong job placement record

Choose University of Montana if: You want field-based learning in iconic landscapes with internationally recognized faculty

Choose Rocky Mountain College if: You want small class sizes, personalized attention, and unique Yellowstone watershed research focus

Choose MSU for career flexibility if: You want multiple Earth Sciences options and strong industry connections

Choose UM for environmental focus if: You want mountain geography specialization and conservation emphasis

Choose any Montana program if: You want exceptional field research opportunities and high employment outcomes

Making Your Final Decision

The best Montana geography program for you depends on balancing your academic goals, financial constraints, learning preferences, and career aspirations. Montana’s geography programs offer extraordinary advantages through access to some of North America’s most spectacular and diverse natural environments, providing unmatched opportunities for hands-on learning and field research.

Consider your preference for large research university versus small college environment, graduate versus undergraduate focus, and specific geographic interests (mountains, watersheds, conservation). All Montana programs benefit from the state’s unique position as a natural laboratory for geographic study, from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone ecosystems.

Remember that Montana’s geography programs prepare students for careers that often involve outdoor work, environmental analysis, and resource management – fields where hands-on experience in diverse natural settings provides invaluable preparation. The exceptional employment rates (96-97%) across Montana geography programs demonstrate the value employers place on this practical, field-based education.