Best Nursing Schools in Montana
Nursing is a great option for residents of Montana and it’s only due to get better over the next decade. According to the latest statistics, The Treasure State’s nursing positions are due to increase by 6% by 2030 which means now is the perfect time to either get an entry-level nursing degree or go back to school for a nursing graduate degree. If you’re looking for options for either, check out the following sections below.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Montana
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Montana's nursing education landscape shows a consistent upward trajectory in NCLEX pass rates. The statewide average has progressively improved from 83.06% in 2022 to 91.71% in 2023, and further increased to 92.73% in 2024.- Total nursing graduates increased from 602 in 2022 to 688 in 2024
- Steady improvement indicates enhanced nursing education quality
BSN vs ADN Program Performance
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs demonstrate slightly higher performance compared to Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs.- BSN average pass rate: 93.31% (478 total students)
- ADN average pass rate: 91.43% (210 total students)
- BSN programs show a marginal 1.88% advantage in NCLEX pass rates
Top Performing Nursing Schools
Montana's top nursing schools demonstrate exceptional NCLEX performance across multiple years.- Carroll College: 98.62% average pass rate (145 total students)
- Montana Technological University: 96.92% average pass rate (130 total students)
- Helena College University of Montana: 92.13% average pass rate (89 total students)
Geographic Performance Trends
Different Montana cities show varying nursing program performance levels.- Great Falls leads with a 98.15% pass rate (54 students)
- Helena follows with a 95.52% pass rate (67 students)
- Bozeman has a 91.6% pass rate (369 students)
- Billings shows the lowest average at 89.19% pass rate (37 students)
Most Improved Nursing Programs
Several Montana nursing programs demonstrated significant pass rate improvements in 2024.- Aaniiih Nakoda College: Improved 41.66 percentage points
- Great Falls College Montana State University: Increased 28 percentage points
- University of Providence: Enhanced 26.73 percentage points
Carroll College
Helena, MT - Private 4-year - carroll.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Carroll College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in Helena stands out with exceptional NCLEX performance, achieving 100% pass rates in recent years. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates liberal arts education with rigorous clinical training, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare environments. The program requires ACT or SAT entrance exams and offers unique opportunities in leadership and management nursing courses. With an emphasis on hands-on clinical experience and Montana licensure compatibility through the Nurse Licensure Compact, students receive robust preparation for immediate professional nursing roles. The Roman Catholic affiliated, military-friendly institution provides scholarship opportunities and a holistic approach to nursing education.
- BSN degree program
- Campus-based learning
- NCLEX preparation
- Liberal arts enhanced
- Montana licensure focus
- Nurse Licensure Compact eligible
- Scholarships available
- Hands-on clinical training
- Leadership and management courses
- Immediate employment readiness
Montana Technological University
Butte, MT - Public 4-Year - mtech.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Montana Technological University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers an exceptional pathway to nursing excellence. With a consistently impressive NCLEX pass rate ranging from 94% to 100% between 2022-2024, the program demonstrates outstanding student preparedness. Students must meet standard entrance exam requirements and complete nearly 1,000 clinical hours across diverse healthcare environments. The CCNE-accredited curriculum leverages advanced simulation labs, providing comprehensive training that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Military-friendly and focused on career readiness, the program equips students with robust nursing foundations. Graduates benefit from high placement rates and opportunities for advanced specialization, making it a premier choice for aspiring registered nurses in Montana.
- CCNE accredited program.
- Nearly 1,000 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- High career placement rates.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Opportunities for advanced study.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Premier nursing education in Montana.
- Strong foundation for RN licensure.
- Diverse clinical settings.
Flathead Valley Community College
Kalispell, MT - Public 2-Year - fvcc.edu
Associate - Registered Nurse
Campus Based - Visit Website
Flathead Valley Community College's Associate of Science in Nursing program offers a strategic pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses seeking advanced clinical credentials. With consistently strong NCLEX pass rates ranging from 84.21% to 95.65% between 2022-2024, the program demonstrates exceptional student preparedness. The 28-credit curriculum emphasizes comprehensive patient care skills, targeting healthcare professionals wanting to expand their professional opportunities. Designed specifically for LPNs transitioning to Registered Nurse roles, the program provides targeted training in advanced patient assessment, complex care planning, and medical documentation. Students must complete background checks and maintain current immunizations. The two-semester program positions graduates for diverse healthcare employment, with a robust job market outlook and clear pathways to Montana RN licensure.
- Two-semester program
- 28 credits required
- For LPNs only
- NCLEX-RN exam eligible
- Montana licensure
- Background check needed
- Immunizations required
- Direct patient care focus
- Strong job outlook
- Diverse healthcare opportunities
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT - Public 4-Year - umt.edu
Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Montana's Associate of Science in Nursing delivers a comprehensive two-year program preparing students for professional nursing careers. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate consistently ranging from 82.86% to 100% between 2022-2024, the program demonstrates exceptional student success. Admission requires a 2.50 minimum GPA and strong performance in prerequisite courses. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and acute care rotations. ACEN accreditation ensures high-quality education standards. The program strategically limits enrollment to 18 students per semester, enabling personalized instruction and focused learning. Graduates are well-positioned to take the NCLEX-RN and launch successful nursing careers with robust theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
- Four semesters full-time
- 2.50 GPA required
- ACEN accredited
- Hands-on clinical experience
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- 18 students per semester
- B or better in prerequisites
- Simulation and lab training
- Acute care clinical rotations
- State Board of Nursing approved
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT - Public 4-Year - montana.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Montana State University's BSN program delivers comprehensive nursing education across five Montana campuses, emphasizing hands-on clinical training and practical skill development. Prospective students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses, with special attention to natural sciences like Anatomy & Physiology. The program offers a Direct Entry pathway for Montana high school graduates, providing a streamlined admission process. With an impressive NCLEX pass rate fluctuating between 81.91% and 93.14% from 2022-2024, the program demonstrates consistent student preparedness. Clinical experiences span diverse healthcare settings, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the dynamic nursing profession. An SAT or ACT entrance exam is typically required, and the program's state-of-the-art simulation labs enhance learning opportunities for aspiring nurses.
- Eight semesters to complete.
- Five campus locations across Montana.
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Direct Entry for Montana high school grads.
- 92.05% first-time NCLEX pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Anatomy & Physiology I required.
- No grades below C- accepted.
- Practical skills development.
Montana Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
The nursing degree you pursue will largely depend on your personal and professional aspirations. Many aspiring nurses opt for an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) because these options are affordable and can be completed in a relatively short time. Below, you can explore the differences between these programs and other available options.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re new to the nursing field and seeking the quickest route to start your career in Montana, an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is the ideal choice. Both the ADN and nursing diploma programs typically take one to two years to complete. For those with prior nursing experience, such as working as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), enrolling in an LPN to RN bridge program may allow you to earn either an ADN or a BSN in a shorter time.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Montana include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Montana.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
At the entry-level, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often the most sought-after degree by employers in Montana. These programs typically take around four years to complete and provide comprehensive training and education. However, if you already have nursing experience, an RN to BSN program could be a faster route. For individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field who want to transition into nursing, an Accelerated BSN program offers a streamlined path to earn your nursing degree in a shorter time frame.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Montana typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Montana RN to BSN offer a valuable opportunity for nurses already working in the field who are looking to further their education. If you hold an ADN, an RN license, and some experience, you can enroll in this bridge program and earn your BSN in just two years—half the time it would take to complete a traditional BSN program. This is an excellent way for working nurses to enhance their qualifications without taking extended time off from their careers.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Some individuals may choose to pursue nursing later in their careers after already earning a bachelor’s degree in another field. Montana ABSN programs provide a great option for those looking to transition into nursing. With this program, you can leverage your existing degree and complete your BSN in as little as a year, allowing you to quickly shift into a fulfilling nursing career.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For many students, graduate school represents the next step in their nursing career. Programs such as a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offer excellent opportunities for those seeking to enhance their professional value, increase earning potential, and gain more autonomy in their roles. Admission to most nursing graduate programs typically requires a BSN (or higher) and an active RN license. These advanced degrees open doors to leadership positions and specialized clinical practice.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Montana:
- Montana Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Montana MSN Program
- Montana RN to MSN Programs
- Montana Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Montana DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Montana
After completing your nursing education, obtaining your RN license is an essential step to start practicing in Montana. To become licensed, you’ll need to graduate with at least an ADN, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and submit your application to the Montana Board of Nursing. Once you’re licensed, you must complete continuing education requirements to maintain your credentials and stay up to date with the latest nursing practices.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Montana
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Montana Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Crucial to receiving licensure is graduating from an accredited program. RN program accreditation in the US is handled by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program is accredited by one of these two programs, it means that it has passed the state’s requirements concerning training and curriculum. If it has not been accredited, you will not be able to get licensed upon graduation.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Montana
List of Nursing Schools in Montana
Billings, MT
Montana State University Billings
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Competitive admission process
- Approved by Montana State Board
- Accredited by NLN CNEA
- Strong job growth
- Diverse employment opportunities
Bozeman, MT
Montana State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Eight semesters to complete.
- Five campus locations across Montana.
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite requirement.
- Direct Entry for Montana high school grads.
- 92.05% first-time NCLEX pass rate.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Diverse healthcare settings.
- Anatomy & Physiology I required.
Butte, MT
Montana Technological University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited program.
- Nearly 1,000 clinical hours.
- State-of-the-art simulation labs.
- High career placement rates.
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
- Opportunities for advanced study.
- Hands-on learning experiences.
- Premier nursing education in Montana.
Great Falls, MT
University of Providence
- Bachelor's - Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year on-campus program.
- Prepares for NCLEX licensure exam.
- Combines liberal arts and nursing courses.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.
- Direct entry and pre-nursing admission options.
- State-of-the-art nursing simulation facility.
- Focus on compassionate, ethical care.
- Practical clinical experiences included.
Helena, MT
Carroll College
- Bachelor's - Nursing (BSN)
Campus Based - Website
- BSN degree program
- Campus-based learning
- NCLEX preparation
- Liberal arts enhanced
- Montana licensure focus
- Nurse Licensure Compact eligible
- Scholarships available
- Hands-on clinical training
Kalispell, MT
Flathead Valley Community College
- Associate - Registered Nurse
Campus Based - Website
- Two-semester program
- 28 credits required
- For LPNs only
- NCLEX-RN exam eligible
- Montana licensure
- Background check needed
- Immunizations required
- Direct patient care focus
Missoula, MT
The University of Montana
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four semesters full-time
- 2.50 GPA required
- ACEN accredited
- Hands-on clinical experience
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- 18 students per semester
- B or better in prerequisites
- Simulation and lab training
Pablo, MT
Salish Kootenai College
- Bachelor's - Direct Admit BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 4-year BSN program
- Campus-based learning
- High-fidelity simulation
- Small faculty-to-student ratios
- Urban and rural clinical sites
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
- NEX exam score requirement
- Financial aid available
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