Best Trade Schools in Montana for 2025

Montana offers a rich educational landscape for those looking to fast-track their careers through vocational training.

With a focus on practical skills and job readiness, trade schools in Montana cater to a range of industries, from healthcare to construction, aligning with the state's economic needs and growth areas.

This guide highlights the best trade schools in Montana, providing insights into programs that promise to advance your education within one to two years and boost your earning potential significantly.

Featured Trade Schools in Montana

The featured trade schools in Montana offer a gateway to prosperous careers in fields ranging from healthcare and technology to construction and the skilled trades.

These institutions stand out for their commitment to providing quality education that prepares students for immediate employment and career advancement.

With a focus on practical skills, industry-standard training, and real-world application, the following schools represent the best in Montana's vocational education for 2024.

1. Flathead Valley Community College

Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC), set against the stunning backdrop of Glacier National Park, is a beacon of higher learning in Northwest Montana.

Serving a diverse student body with over 50 program offerings, FVCC excels in fields such as agriculture, healthcare, occupational trades, math, and science.

The college is particularly noted for its commitment to hands-on, experiential learning, offering apprenticeship programs in electrical and HVAC technologies that blend classroom instruction with real-world application.

2. University of Montana

The University of Montana, located in Missoula, stands out as a premier institution for higher education in the state. Offering an extensive array of associate degrees and vocational certificates, UM caters to a wide range of academic interests and career goals.

The university is distinguished by its robust online education platform, making higher education accessible to students across Montana and beyond.

Its welding technology program is particularly noteworthy, allowing students to earn a certificate after just the first year of study, demonstrating UM's commitment to flexible and career-focused educational paths.

3. Dawson Community College

Dawson Community College is a beacon for students in eastern Montana, offering a curriculum that directly responds to the local economy's needs with specialized programs in agriculture, criminal justice, and welding.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the college embraces online technical programs, ensuring remote learners can achieve their educational goals without geographic constraints.

This approach supports students in rural areas and enhances the college's commitment to flexible, inclusive education.

4. Salish Kootenai College

At the heart of Montana's Flathead Indian Reservation, Salish Kootenai College is a pivotal institution for Native American education, offering an array of programs that celebrate and preserve indigenous culture while providing modern career training.

Specialized programs in hydrology and health promotion stand alongside innovative offerings like unmanned aircraft systems operations, reflecting the college's dedication to blending traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology.

5. Montana State University-Bozeman

Montana State University-Bozeman, through its Gallatin College, tailors its applied associate degrees and certificates to meet the evolving needs of Montana's job market.

Specializing in fields such as aviation and STEM, the college offers unique apprenticeship programs that combine academic learning with practical experience, preparing students for successful careers in high-growth industries.

6. Miles Community College

Miles Community College, focusing on workforce development, offers a range of applied degrees and certificates designed to fast-track students into their careers.

With business, information technology, and healthcare programs, the college responds to the immediate needs of the local and national job market, providing students with the skills required for employment or further education.

7. The University of Montana-Western

The University of Montana-Western introduces a revolutionary approach to learning with its Experience One concept, where students engage in one course at a time.

This immersive educational model is particularly effective in fields like equine studies and natural horsemanship, where intensive, focused learning can significantly enhance skill development.

Additionally, the university's unique certificates in farrier science and small animal grooming offer students specialized career pathways in animal care, combining hands-on training with comprehensive academic instruction.

8. Great Falls College Montana State University

Rooted in a tradition of vocational education, Great Falls College MSU has evolved to offer a wide range of accelerated programs designed to fast-track students into their careers.

Specializing in industrial and welding technology, the college's curriculum is structured around eight-week courses offering unparalleled flexibility and efficiency.

This innovative approach enables students to complete associate degrees and certificates more rapidly, meeting the urgent demand for skilled professionals in the workforce.

9. Helena College University of Montana

The Helena College University of Montana provides a personalized educational experience focusing on practical skills and professional readiness.

With 28 diverse degrees and certificates and an impressively low student-to-faculty ratio, Helena College fosters a learning environment where individual attention and mentorship are paramount.

10. Fort Peck Community College

Fort Peck Community College, deeply rooted in the heritage of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, offers a distinctive educational journey centered around Native American education.

With programs tailored to celebrate and preserve Native culture, such as the Native language instructor degrees, FPCC provides a unique lens through which students can engage with their studies.

Common Trade Jobs in Montana

Montana's economy supports many trade jobs, particularly in healthcare, technology, construction, and the skilled trades. Vocational training in the state equips students with the necessary skills for immediate employment in these in-demand fields.

• licensed practical nurse (LPN)
• radiologic technologist
• electrician
• plumber
• construction manager
• HVAC technician
• information technology specialist
• welder
• carpenter
• diesel mechanic
• surgical technologist
• civil engineering technician

How Much Does Trade School Cost in Montana?

The cost of trade school in Montana varies by program and institution. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available to help manage these expenses, making vocational training an accessible option for many students.

The cost of trade school in Montana varies, with community colleges offering vocational programs for around $3,600 per year in tuition and fees.

This makes vocational training an accessible option for many students looking to enter high-demand fields such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.

Are There Online Trade Schools in Montana?

Yes, several trade schools in Montana offer hybrid or online trade programs, providing flexible options for students with busy schedules or those living in remote areas.

These include the Helena College University of Montana, Great Falls College Montana State University, and the University of Montana campuses. For more information about their online trade programs, you can visit their website.

Explore Trade Schools Today

Choosing a trade school in Montana is a strategic step towards a rewarding career. With various programs and institutions available, now is the time to pursue a path that aligns with your career goals and personal interests.

Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in Montana's vibrant job market.