Montana Engineering Schools

Montana offers engineering students a distinctive educational experience shaped by the state’s natural landscape, rural communities, and emerging tech and energy sectors. With a focus on practical learning and community impact, Montana's engineering schools prepare students for careers that make a difference locally and globally.

Why Study Engineering in Montana

Engineering students in Montana benefit from small class sizes, strong faculty mentorship, and a hands-on learning approach that leverages the state’s unique environmental and industrial context. Whether you're interested in infrastructure, clean energy, or rural innovation, Montana offers a grounded and practical pathway to an engineering career.

Here’s why Montana stands out for engineering education:

  • Access to outdoor labs and real-world applications in energy, agriculture, and environmental engineering

  • Strong ties to local industries and infrastructure projects

  • High post-graduation placement rates in both regional and national roles

  • Opportunities for research and service learning in rural and tribal communities

  • Clear career paths in diverse engineering careers

Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Montana

Montana may have a smaller number of institutions, but it offers high-quality engineering programs that emphasize practical experience and regional impact. Below are two of the top choices. Be sure to check the ABET-accredited programs section at the end of this profile for a full listing.

Montana Technological University
Lance College of Mines & Engineering

Montana Technological University's Lance College of Mines and Engineering offers a robust selection of engineering and technology programs supported by faculty with significant industry experience and a commitment to hands-on learning. The college offers bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. programs across a range of disciplines. All undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by the ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC), with additional ABET accreditation for computer science (CAC) and industrial hygiene and safety programs (ANSAC).

Undergraduate Majors Include:

  • Civil Engineering

  • Computer Science and Software Engineering

  • Construction Management

  • Cybersecurity and Network Administration

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Environmental Engineering

  • Geological, Mechanical, Metallurgical and Materials, Mining, and Petroleum Engineering

  • Safety, Health, and Industrial Hygiene

Students benefit from facilities such as an underground mine and specialized labs for areas like geotechnical testing, environmental engineering, and metallurgical processing. Research opportunities are supported by grants and stipends, and the curriculum includes practical training and projects linked to industry needs.

Graduate Programs are available in most undergraduate disciplines, with Ph.D. offerings in Materials Science and Earth Science and Engineering.

About the University

Montana Technological University is a public institution located in Butte, Montana. Known for its focus on engineering and applied sciences, the university maintains strong ties to the mining, energy, and natural resource industries and emphasizes practical, career-focused education.

 

Montana State University
Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering

The Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering at Montana State University in Bozeman offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, engineering technology, and computer science. Programs span five departments:

  • Chemical and Biological Engineering

  • Civil Engineering

  • Electrical and Computer Engineering

  • Gianforte School of Computing

  • Mechanical and Industrial Engineering

Undergraduate students can pursue majors and minors in disciplines such as bio-resources engineering, software engineering, and industrial systems. Graduate degrees include Master of Engineering, Master of Science, and Ph.D. options across core engineering fields.

The college emphasizes hands-on learning, including access to specialized facilities like the Subzero Research Laboratory and Montana Nanotechnology Facility. Students regularly engage in research, internships, senior capstone projects, and community-focused outreach programs. The college also supports diversity through initiatives such as Women in Engineering and Empower.

About the University

Montana State University is a public land-grant institution located in Bozeman, Montana. It combines a strong research focus with a student-centered approach to education, all set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. MSU is known for its emphasis on undergraduate research, engagement with industry, and community outreach.

Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Montana

Engineering students in Montana have access to a variety of financial aid opportunities, including state-funded scholarships, institutional awards, and need-based grants. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students pursuing careers in high-demand technical fields.

Key Financial Aid Resources:

  • Montana's STEM/Healthcare Scholarship Program — Administered by the Montana University System, this scholarship provides $6,000 over four years to Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or healthcare fields.

  • Montana Tech Scholarships — Montana Technological University offers various scholarships for engineering students, including the Oredigger Merit Scholarships for new students and the Marie Moebus Presidential Scholarship, which combines a tuition waiver with a cash award.

  • Montana State University Engineering Scholarships — The Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering at MSU provides numerous scholarships for engineering students.

Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early to maximize eligibility for both federal and state aid programs.

Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Montana

Students planning to become licensed professional engineers (PEs) in Montana must meet specific state requirements, including education, examination, and work experience. Additionally, Montana offers local resources and professional organizations to help students and professionals grow their careers.

Key Resources:

  • Montana Board of Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors — Oversees the PE licensing process, including application procedures, FE and PE exam requirements, and license renewals.

  • Montana Society of Engineers (MSE) — A state affiliate of the National Society of Professional Engineers, MSE provides advocacy, continuing education, and networking opportunities for engineers across Montana.

  • IEEE Montana Section — Supports electrical and electronics engineers in the region with technical meetings, professional development resources, and student engagement opportunities.

  • ASCE Montana Section — Offers professional support for civil engineers, including conferences, student competitions, and leadership training.

These organizations are valuable resources for professional development and licensure preparation throughout an engineering career in Montana.

FAQs About Engineering Education in Montana

What engineering disciplines are most relevant in Montana?

Montana has strong demand for civil, environmental, mechanical, mining, and petroleum engineers—fields closely tied to the state’s natural resources, infrastructure needs, and energy development.

Can I earn an engineering degree online in Montana?

Yes. Students in Montana can pursue flexible, accredited options such as an online bachelor's degree in engineering or an online engineering master's degree. These are especially helpful for students in rural communities or working professionals.

Do engineering programs in Montana offer hands-on experience?

Absolutely. Both Montana Tech and Montana State integrate fieldwork, co-ops, and undergraduate research into their engineering curricula. Students often engage with local industries and participate in community-based projects.

What student support services are available?

Montana engineering schools provide academic advising, peer mentoring, tutoring, and career services. Students can also join campus chapters of professional societies such as ASCE, IEEE, and SWE for additional support and networking.

ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Montana

Attending an ABET engineering degree program ensures that your education meets globally recognized standards in quality and rigor—critical for licensure and many employment opportunities. Montana’s institutions offer several such accredited programs, particularly in high-demand and regionally relevant engineering disciplines.

The table below will detail ABET-accredited programs across the state, including institution names, locations, and accredited program areas.

 

Carroll College Helena - Civil Engineering
Montana Technological University Butte - Industrial Hygiene

- Mining Engineering

- Petroleum Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Software Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Industrial Hygiene Distance Learning Professional Track

- Occupational Safety and Health

- Computer Science

- Environmental Engineering

- Geological Engineering

- Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
Montana State University - Bozeman Bozeman - Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Construction Engineering Technology

- Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Industrial and Management Systems Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Biological Engineering

- Computer Science
Montana State University - Northern Havre - Civil Engineering Technology

 

Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Montana was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses can change, readers are encouraged to visit the ABET official website and the individual university websites linked above for the most current information. You can also refer to other resources mentioned throughout this profile—such as the Montana PE Board and Montana University System—for academic planning and licensure guidance.

 

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