Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at Montana State University

Montana State's nursing program produces graduates who earn well initially but face an unusual earnings decline that should concern prospective families. While first-year graduates earn $71,915—a respectable starting salary—their earnings drop to $65,635 by year four, representing a 9% decrease when most careers show growth. This backward trajectory is particularly troubling in nursing, where experience typically commands higher pay.

The program's performance within Montana is mediocre at best, ranking in just the 40th percentile among the state's seven nursing schools. More concerning, it trails significantly behind top Montana programs like University of Providence ($101,187) and even Northern Montana State ($77,121). The $28,000 median debt load is reasonable and slightly below the national average, but it doesn't offset the earnings concerns.

For families considering this program, the fundamental question is whether Montana State's broader university experience justifies accepting lower nursing earnings potential. While the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 isn't problematic initially, the declining income pattern suggests graduates may struggle more with loan payments over time. Given nursing's strong job market, families might find better long-term value at higher-performing Montana nursing programs or consider whether MSU's specific advantages—location, campus life, or other factors—outweigh the financial drawbacks.