Education Note: The University of Montana (UM)
Institutional Overview
The University of Montana (UM), founded in 1893 in Missoula, Montana, is a public research university classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities Very high research activity" as of 2022. Current enrollment stands at approximately 7,570 undergraduate students (Fall 2023), with a campus size of 220 acres. The institution maintains a highly accessible admission policy with a 96% acceptance rate, though its 46% graduation rate falls slightly below the national average of 49%.
The student body demographics reflect the institution's strong regional focus while working to expand diversity. The university particularly attracts students described as "outdoorsy" and "laid-back," with strong environmental and conservation interests reflecting its location at the base of Mount Sentinel. International students represent a small but growing population, with only 25% of international students completing their studies. The university maintains 13 colleges and schools offering comprehensive undergraduate programs while emphasizing its historic strengths in liberal arts and environmental sciences.
Risk Score
Risk Score Analysis: Risk Score = (Annual Debt: $7,451 / Expected Starting Salary: $29,300) × (1 - Graduation Rate: 46%) = 0.254 × 0.54 = 0.137 The moderate risk score reflects challenges in the relationship between student debt and earning potential, though mitigated by relatively low annual debt. The low starting salary raises some concerns, though the modest debt load helps maintain manageable risk levels. The 46% graduation rate creates a relatively high risk multiplier that warrants attention.
Strengths
Montana demonstrates particular strengths in specialized areas, with strong performance in environmental and conservation sciences. The institution's relatively low annual debt of $7,451 makes it financially accessible compared to peers. Student reviews consistently praise the location and outdoor recreational opportunities. The university's R1 research status as of 2022 indicates strong research capabilities and opportunities for undergraduate involvement. The 50% student loan utilization rate is relatively low, suggesting successful financial aid strategies. Strong faculty engagement and small class sizes in many programs provide personalized learning experiences.
Weaknesses
UM faces significant challenges that require attention. The 46% graduation rate, below the national average, indicates substantial retention challenges. The low starting salary of $29,300 raises concerns about early career outcomes. Student reviews note serious issues with financial aid administration, with one review stating "They royally messed up their financial aid this year and they don't care." The $900 annual parking fee draws specific criticism. Some reviews mention inconsistent academic quality across departments and programs.
Bottom Line
The University of Montana's risk score of 0.137 indicates moderate institutional risk that requires strategic intervention. First, address the below-average graduation rate through enhanced student support services and retention initiatives. Second, improve career services and professional development programs to boost starting salaries. Third, urgently reform financial aid administration and student service systems. The board should prioritize these improvements while leveraging UM's strengths in environmental sciences and research capabilities.
Student Voices
"The University of Montana attracts a student body that's pretty laid-back and easygoing. Many are outdoorsy and self-described as hippies." - Current Student
"They royally messed up their financial aid this year and they don't care. Parking is almost $900 a year to be guaranteed a spot." - Recent Student
"Quite a few granola kids and Carhartt-sporting, plaid-proud, future biologists types." - Current Student
"The campus setting and outdoor opportunities are amazing, but administrative issues can be frustrating." - Graduate Student
These student perspectives highlight both UM's distinctive culture and significant administrative challenges.