Online Nursing Programs in Montana: Choosing the Right School
Ready to start nursing school in Montana? Learn about nursing programs with online options and what to expect on the way to becoming a nurse. This guide provides insight into the types of nursing schools in Montana, focusing on programs with online options for hybrid learning, as well as what to expect after you graduate. Take your first steps toward an online nursing degree today.
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Inside Online Nursing Programs in Montana
Even though nursing is a hands-on profession, you can enroll in online nursing programs in Montana that combine virtual classroom instruction with practical, in-person learning in a hybrid format.
Hybrid nursing school curriculums allow students to complete some coursework online but obtain hands-on training through in-person clinicals, internships, or practicums. For added convenience, many online Montana nursing programs let students choose where they complete these experiential learning requirements. Often, students working as RNs while in school can complete these requirements at their workplace.
On-campus requirements, such as labs or intensives typically offered on weekends, are also a consideration for students looking for online nursing programs in Montana. You should also consider online class format and whether coursework must be completed at set times (synchronously) or on your own schedule (asynchronously). Take a closer look at top programs in Montana at the various levels of nursing degrees.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
As you learn more about becoming a nurse, consider your starting point and where you’d like to land to plot your trajectory. For those without a bachelor’s degree (or a bachelor’s degree in another discipline), undergraduate programs are often the best place to start.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Becoming a CNA is one of the most efficient ways to enter the field of nursing. Montana Tech’s program has three annual start dates, making it possible to begin when you’re ready. You’ll finish 50 hours of coursework online, attend a two-day weekend skills lab, and complete 25 hours in a clinical setting.
Example: Montana Technological University Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Cost: $1,450
- Length: 75 hours (online classroom instruction, weekend skills lab, 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. Coursework qualifies you to sit for the NCLEX-PN, providing you with a pathway to continue working as an LPN if you choose to continue your education.
- Cost: $4,270/semester (12+ credits)
- 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 ideal for students with no prior healthcare experience who want to become a registered nurse as quickly as possible. Most ADN programs last just two years, which allows individuals to sit for their NCLEX-RN exams two years sooner than if they enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. An ADN is the standard entry-level degree to start a nursing career.
Example: Miles Community College Associate of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $193/credit hour (in Custer County), $251/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 can be completed more quickly. To achieve program completion in two years or less, most accelerated BSN programs are designed for those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.
Example: University of Providence Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Cost: $1,052/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, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctorate, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice or PhD might be for you. Read on to learn more about these degree options, and post-degree certificates for additional expertise.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
There are two main types of MSN programs, both allowing graduates to take on teaching, advanced practice, and managerial roles in nursing. The standard MSN program is designed for BSN-prepared students who are looking to increase their knowledge base and work to become a nurse practitioner or assume other leadership roles in nursing.
Example: Montana State University Master of Nursing Degree
- Cost: $470.69/credit hour
- Length: 42 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Doctoral nursing programs are the pinnacle of nurse training and education. However, DNP and PhD programs differ in outcomes. 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
These post-graduate programs offer tailored skills and training for students who want to expand their knowledge without embarking on another full degree. Post-graduate certificates are intended for advanced degree nurses who already have the credential they want but still need formal training to shift to a specialized area or concentration of nursing practice.
Example: University of Providence Post-Master’s Nurse Educator Concentration Certificate
- Cost: $974/credit hour
- Length: 23 credits and 90 practicum hours
- Mode: Hybrid
Bridge Degree Programs
For students who have already earned a certification, license, or degree in nursing and want to build their knowledge base, bridge programs are an excellent tool. They assume an existing level of knowledge that eliminates educational redundancies so you can move through coursework and clinicals at a pace that is commensurate with your experience.
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 but don’t need to relearn many of the topics covered in their LPN training. Instead, LPN bridge programs recognize the education and hands-on experience already achieved by LPNs, saving them time and money by expediting the path to a higher degree and, ultimately, the RN title.
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 an associate degree and wish to earn further education with a BSN. Many of these RNs will need to secure a bachelor’s degree to qualify for certain jobs or to make it easier to pursue a graduate nursing degree.
Example: Salish Kootenai College RN to BSN Program
- Cost: $290.25 – $348.25, depending on 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 who know that they want to conclude their studies at the doctoral level. While you will complete master’s-level coursework along the way, you won’t need to go through two application processes (for your master’s and then doctorate). By bundling the coursework into one degree path, you can earn your DNP more efficiently.
Example: Montana State University Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Family Nurse Practitioner Option
- Cost: $470.69/credit hour
- Length: 82 credits
- Mode: Hybrid
Licensing Information & Requirements for RNs in Montana
The general requirements for becoming an RN in Montana are similar to most states, and are through the Montana Board of Nursing. For nursing school graduates, you will most likely be applying for “licensing by examination,” which refers to passing the NCLEX-RN exam and completing other steps, outlined below.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
Before becoming an RN in Montana, you need the necessary formal training. You can get this training by graduating 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. Generally, if a nursing program has programmatic nursing accreditation, it also will be approved by the Board.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
Applying for an RN license in Montana through the examination pathway will cost $100. You must also complete the application and provide supporting documentation, such as your nursing school transcripts.
After submitting your application to the Montana Board of Nursing, you’ll receive an ATT or Authorization to Test. This makes you eligible to register to take the NCLEX-RN exam with Pearson VUE. It costs $200 to take the NCLEX-RN, and after passing the test, your scores are sent to the Montana Board of Nursing.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
Once you have passed your NCLEX-RN, Pearson VUE will report your scores to the Montana Board of Nursing, which is part of finishing the process of licensure. Applicants will also need to pass a criminal background check. To complete this step, you’ll need to submit your fingerprints with your local participating law enforcement agency or with the Montana Department of Justice. You can complete the fingerprinting requirement while working on your application to the Montana Board of Nursing, but the Board of Nursing must have your completed RN application within six months of them receiving your fingerprinting results.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
Every two years in Montana, RNs must complete 24 contact hours of continuing education. This requirement applies to newly minted RNs, although these requirements are prorated to reflect that a new RN may not have had a license for the entire 24-month continuing education reporting period. There’s also no limit to how many continuing education classes you can take at one time. This means you can space out your education over several months or take them all in a more compressed timeframe.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
Once you’ve been working for a while as a nurse, you might find yourself more interested in a specific area of nursing or working with a particular population. Whether you’re called to pediatrics, labor and delivery, critical or acute care, ambulatory care, or emergency medicine, there’s a specialty certification to help you upskill and improve your employability for the job you want. Check out our quiz to see if there’s a specialty that might be a good fit for you!
Career & Salary Outlook for Registered Nurses in Montana
Montana offers Registered Nurses (RNs) a blend of strong earning potential and excellent job growth. Across the state, RNs earn a median salary of $79,170, with top earners making up to $104,970 annually. Billings leads the way with a median salary of $82,270 and high-end pay reaching $105,220. Missoula and Great Falls also offer competitive salaries, with medians of $77,760 and $76,070, respectively, making Montana an appealing option for RNs seeking rewarding opportunities in both urban and regional settings.
The job outlook in Montana is especially encouraging. RN positions are expected to grow by 14.8% through 2030, adding 1,530 new jobs for a total of 11,890. With around 750 annual openings from growth and turnover, the state offers steady opportunities for nurses ready to advance their careers. Whether you’re drawn to Montana’s smaller cities or its more rural healthcare facilities, the state provides a stable and rewarding environment for RNs. Explore the data below to learn more.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $64,530 | $79,170 | $104,970 |
| Billings, MT | $65,100 | $82,270 | $105,220 |
| Great Falls, MT | $63,390 | $76,070 | $91,830 |
| Missoula, MT | $64,190 | $77,760 | $102,850 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, 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
University of Providence
Great Falls, Montana
Why We Selected University of Providence:
- The University of Providence offers a cohort-style learning model for RN-BSN students, enhancing peer support and collaboration.
- The program provides real-time application of nursing skills, allowing students to apply new knowledge directly in their current roles.
- The University of Providence's nursing programs are regionally and nationally accredited, ensuring high standards of education and employability.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$26,462
- Average Institutional Aid$17,186
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
- % of Students Receiving an Award38%
- Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
Montana State University-Northern
Havre, Montana
Why We Selected Montana State University-Northern:
- The RN-BSN program offers a seamless pathway for ASN graduates to advance their nursing education online.
- The program provides a flexible completion option, allowing students to finish in as little as three semesters full-time.
- Students can maintain employment while completing the program through MSU-Northern's distance learning platform.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$4,496
- Average Institutional Aid$2,997
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course60%
- % of Students Receiving an Award34%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Montana State University Billings
Billings, Montana
Why We Selected Montana State University Billings:
- The RN to BSN program offers flexible completion options, allowing students to finish in as little as three semesters.
- The program is nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high educational standards.
- Students benefit from faculty-led clinical mentored projects, enhancing practical skills and professional development.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$4,485
- Average Institutional Aid$3,035
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
- % of Students Receiving an Award27%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Montana State University
Bozeman, Montana
Why We Selected Montana State University:
- Montana State University offers a unique Caring for Our Own Program supporting Native American nursing students.
- The program provides hands-on learning experiences across five campus sites in Montana, enhancing clinical skills.
- Montana State boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, with 90% of graduates passing on their first attempt.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$5,654
- Average Institutional Aid$5,416
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course19%
- % of Students Receiving an Award56%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 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 counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services 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.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
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 2024
