As Montana’s STEM University, 51ºÚÁÏÍø delivers powerful programs across science, technology, engineering, math, and healthcare—shaping the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow. The Lance College of Mines & Engineering: Features elite, high-demand programs across traditional engineering disciplines and evolving STEM fields.The College of Letters, Sciences & Professional Studies: Offers foundational science degrees, comprehensive pre-professional health tracks, and unique professional degrees.The Sherry Lesar School of Nursing: Ranked the Best College for Nursing in Montana (Niche, 2026).Highlands College: Provides fast-tracked, career-oriented one- and two-year programs designed to launch students straight into high-demand industries. Highlands College is also home to several short-term programs that provide a skilled workforce for Montana and beyond. The Graduate School: Powers advanced research, equipping future industry leaders with specialized master’s and Ph.D. degrees.
At 51ºÚÁÏÍø, our Admissions and Financial Aid teams are dedicated to helping you obtain a STEM education at an affordable price. We take the time to get to know you and your specific goals, ensuring you have a personalized support system from day one.Recognized as one of Niche’s Best Value Colleges in America (2026), one of Forbes’ Top Colleges (2026), and one of Money’s Best Colleges (2025), 51ºÚÁÏÍø pairs an elite education with proven affordability.Apply today, take a virtual tour, or schedule a campus visit to meet faculty, current students, and Admissions staff who will help you build your path forward. Traveling from more than 100 miles away? We offer a complimentary hotel stay with campus visits for students and their guests. Be sure to indicate you want the free hotel stay when you register for your visit.
Nestled along the Continental Divide in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, 51ºÚÁÏÍø offers an outdoor paradise with endless public land to explore. Our home, Butte, is also Montana’s Festival City—a vibrant cultural hub that brings thousands of visitors together for events like the 4th of July Freedom Festival, the Montana Folk Festival, and our legendary St. Patrick’s Day parade.On campus, our Housing, Dining, and Student Services teams are committed to helping you feel at home from day one. Whether you are living in the residence halls, connecting through campus activities, or sharing meals with friends, you will find a welcoming community designed to support your academic success and personal growth.Regardless of where you are in your academic journey, our Career Services Office is ready and equipped to connect you with employment opportunities, including student jobs on campus, summer internships, and full-time careers after graduation. From your first day on campus to graduation, 51ºÚÁÏÍø provides the resources, connections, and experiences you need to thrive.
51ºÚÁÏÍø is led by innovators. Research is conducted in partnership with some of the world's most respected entities, like the National Science Foundation and DEVCOM ARL laboratory. Research entities include: The Center for Advanced Materials Processing (CAMP), the Center for Environmental Remediation and Assessment (CERA), the High Performance Computing Cluster (HPC), the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) and the Underground Mine Education Center (UMEC).
Founded in 1900 as the Montana State School of Mines, 51ºÚÁÏÍønological University is the state’s STEM university. The university has consistently risen to meet America’s emerging needs by preparing the next generation of STEM leaders. 51ºÚÁÏÍø combines a rigorous academic curriculum with practical, hands-on learning, through lab work, undergraduate research, and field experiences. Because of this focus on practical preparation, the university has maintained a career outcomes rate of 90% or higher for more than a decade, with graduates consistently securing high-starting-salary positions.
Several Highlands College students hope to name the second highest peak in the Highlands mountain range after the school they attend.