Higher Education in Billings
As the largest city in Montana and the healthcare, business, and cultural hub of a large region, Billings has developed a strong higher education ecosystem. Students can pursue associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, graduate programs, professional certifications, and workforce training without leaving the city. Lower living costs compared to many college towns, a robust job market, and access to world-class outdoor recreation make Billings an attractive place to study.
Below are ten of the best colleges and college-level programs in Billings, ranked on academic quality, career outcomes, student experience, and value.
1. Rocky Mountain College
Founded in 1878, Rocky Mountain College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Montana. This private liberal arts college offers small class sizes, close faculty relationships, and a beautiful campus near the Rimrocks. Rocky is especially well known for its aviation program, one of the few of its kind in the region, as well as its Master of Physician Assistant Studies program, equestrian studies, and strong athletics. Graduates benefit from a tight-knit alumni network across the West.
2. Montana State University Billings
MSU Billings is the largest higher education institution in the city, offering bachelor's and master's degrees in business, education, health sciences, liberal arts, and more. It is known for affordability, flexible scheduling, and a strong focus on serving working adults, first-generation students, and transfer students. Its College of Education has a long history of preparing teachers for schools across Montana.
3. City College at Montana State University Billings
City College is the two-year, technical, and workforce-focused arm of MSU Billings. It offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as nursing, automotive technology, diesel technology, welding, process plant technology, paramedic training, and information technology. City College's close partnerships with local employers help graduates move quickly into well-paying jobs in Billings and beyond.
4. Yellowstone Christian College
Yellowstone Christian College is a small, faith-based institution offering programs in ministry, business, education, and liberal studies. Students value its supportive environment, personal attention, and focus on integrating faith and learning. The college is a good choice for students seeking a values-centered education in a close community.
5. Billings Clinic Education Programs
Billings Clinic, one of the largest healthcare organizations in the region, offers residency programs, clinical training, and education partnerships with colleges throughout Montana. For students pursuing medicine, nursing, or allied health careers, clinical rotations and training at Billings Clinic provide experience in a large, nationally recognized health system.
6. Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital Training
St. Vincent Regional Hospital, part of Intermountain Health, has a long history in Billings and partners with academic institutions to provide clinical training in nursing, radiology, laboratory sciences, and other allied health fields. Its role as a regional referral center gives students exposure to a wide range of specialties.
7. Montana State University Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing, Billings Campus
Montana State University's College of Nursing operates a campus site in Billings, allowing students to complete highly regarded nursing coursework and clinical experience locally. Given the size of the Billings healthcare sector, this program is a valuable pipeline for nurses who want to build careers in the region.
8. Aviation Training Programs
Billings Logan International Airport and Rocky Mountain College together create a strong environment for aviation education. Flight training, aviation management, and related programs prepare students for careers as commercial pilots and aviation professionals at a time when demand for pilots remains high nationwide.
9. Online and Hybrid Degree Programs
Both MSU Billings and Rocky Mountain College have expanded online and hybrid course options, making it easier for working adults, rural students, and parents to earn degrees. MSU Billings in particular has a strong reputation for online programs, allowing students from across Montana to earn a degree from a Billings institution without relocating.
10. Professional and Continuing Education Programs
For professionals seeking career advancement, continuing education programs at MSU Billings and other local institutions offer certificates and short courses in leadership, project management, healthcare administration, and technology. These programs help adults upskill quickly while staying in the workforce.
Why Study in Billings
Billings combines the advantages of a mid-sized city with the charm of the American West. Students enjoy an affordable cost of living, plentiful part-time job opportunities, and internships in healthcare, energy, finance, agriculture, and government. The city's cultural offerings include the Yellowstone Art Museum, the Alberta Bair Theater, a thriving downtown brewery scene, and events at MetraPark. Outdoor enthusiasts have easy access to hiking, skiing, fly fishing, and mountain biking, with the Beartooth Mountains and Yellowstone National Park within a few hours' drive.
Higher Education Trends in Billings
Several trends are shaping higher education in the city. Healthcare programs are expanding rapidly to meet regional workforce demand. Dual enrollment partnerships between Billings high schools and City College allow students to earn college credits early, lowering the cost of a degree. Online learning has become a permanent part of course offerings. There is also growing emphasis on workforce alignment, with colleges collaborating with employers to design programs that lead directly to in-demand jobs.
How to Choose the Right College
Begin by identifying your career goals and the programs that support them. Compare total costs, including tuition, fees, housing, and available financial aid. Consider class size and learning environment, as some students thrive in small private colleges while others prefer larger institutions with more course options. Visit campuses, speak with faculty and current students, and ask about internship and job placement rates. Finally, think about flexibility, especially if you plan to work while studying.
Final Thoughts
From the historic campus of Rocky Mountain College to the comprehensive offerings of MSU Billings and the career-focused programs at City College, Billings provides excellent options for students at every stage of life. Healthcare training through Billings Clinic and St. Vincent Regional Hospital, along with specialized aviation programs, further strengthen the city's educational landscape. Program availability and admission requirements change over time, so confirm current details directly with each institution.