What You Should Know About Graduating From College in Montana
Montana offers a wide range of employment opportunities for college graduates. The two biggest industries in the state are government and trade, transportation and utilities, which employ a combined total of nearly 185,000 people. Other top industries include education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and retail trade.
Montana has a strong economy with a positive job outlook for residents with bachelor’s degrees. Between 2016 and 2026, about 120 careers that require an undergraduate degree are projected to experience substantial growth. The demand for software developers is expected to be the most significant, followed by chemical engineers, market research analysts and marketing specialists, industrial engineers, and mechanical engineers.
The state is home to many large employers, including Billings Clinic, Aageson Farm, St. Vincent Healthcare, and Big Sky Resort. A list of the top 50 employers in the state can be found here.
What’s Next?
Pursuing an undergraduate degree is a significant financial investment, and many Montana residents rely on financial aid to help them cover costs associated with obtaining their degree. The following resources can help students identify and apply for student loans, grants, and scholarships.
- Montana University System. Montana University System provides students and families with important information regarding preparing for college and obtaining financial aid. Through this organization, students can research types of financial aid, calculate how much money they need for college, and apply for loans, grants, and scholarships.
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The U.S. Department of Education uses a student’s submitted FAFSA form to determine their eligibility for need-based financial aid, including student loans and scholarships. Click here to find out if you’re eligible to submit a FAFSA or follow this link to submit an online application.
- CareerOneStop. CareerOneStop is sponsored by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and is a valuable resource for Montana residents who are exploring their education options. Through this website, individuals can find information on financial aid options, with results filtered by where they live, where they plan to attend school, and their degree level.