Highlands College of Montana Tech

Highlands College of Montana Tech stands out as a beacon for students seeking hands-on, career-focused education in vital fields. As an integral part of Montana Technological University, Highlands College upholds a legacy of innovation rooted in the state's rich industrial history. This institution is celebrated for its dedication to engineering, applied sciences, and health sciences, offering a dynamic learning environment that prepares graduates for immediate impact and long-term success.

The journey of Montana Tech began in 1900 as the "Montana State School of Mines," established through the Enabling Act of 1889. Despite early challenges with funding, the school persevered, driven by enthusiastic local support and a clear mission to serve Montana's burgeoning mineral and industrial sectors. Over the decades, it evolved significantly, broadening its academic scope beyond purely engineering to include social sciences and liberal arts. A pivotal moment for career and technical education came in 1994 when the Butte Vocational-Technical Center was brought under Montana Tech's administration, eventually blossoming into Highlands College in 2012.

Today, Highlands College and its parent institution, Montana Tech, offer robust academic programs designed to meet the demands of modern industries. Students can pursue degrees in areas such as Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and a cutting-edge Ph.D. program in Materials Science and Engineering. The Sherry Lesar School of Nursing provides a comprehensive bachelor's degree program, bolstered by a state-of-the-art simulation center that ensures practical, real-world training. Furthermore, the recent renaming of the School of Mines and Engineering to the Lance College of Mines and Engineering, following a historic donation, underscores the university's strong industry connections and commitment to excellence.

Montana Tech's unique designation as a "Special Focus Four-Year University" within the Montana University System highlights its specialized curriculum and direct impact on high-demand sectors. With an endowment of $0.1 billion and a vibrant student body of over 2,500, the institution fosters an environment where students gain not just knowledge, but also practical skills and professional networks that are crucial for thriving in their chosen careers.