The University of Montana

Missoula, MT

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

7,079

Total Students

$8K

Tuition (In-State)

$32K

Tuition (Out-State)

$17K

Avg Net Price

96%

Acceptance Rate

45%

Graduation Rate

6-year

76%

Retention Rate

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About The University of Montana

Rooted in a rich territorial history, The University of Montana is Missoula's defining academic heart.

The University of Montana stands as a historic pillar of higher education, with an origin story deeply intertwined with the very birth of the state itself. Its establishment wasn't just a matter of legislative decree; it was a strategic triumph that shaped Missoula into the vibrant "University City" it is today, offering a unique blend of heritage and educational opportunity.

The journey to its founding began with an Act of Congress in 1881, dedicating a substantial 46,000 acres of Montana Territory land for a future university. Following Montana's admission to the Union in 1889, the fierce competition for the location of state institutions commenced. Missoula's leaders, in a shrewd political maneuver, forged an agreement with Helena to support its bid for the state capital in exchange for the university. This strategic alliance, supported by the era's influential "Copper Kings," ensured Missoula won the legislative vote in 1893, cementing its future as an academic hub.

Formally opening its doors in 1895, the university initially held classes at the nearby Willard School while campus plans progressed. The generous donations of land from the South Missoula Land Company and the Higgins family were crucial in establishing its permanent home. By June 1898, the cornerstone for the iconic A.J. Gibson-designed University Hall was laid, symbolizing the university's enduring presence. A notable chapter in its history includes a period from 1945 to 1965 when the institution was known as "Montana State University" by legislative decree.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1895, becoming a cornerstone of higher education in Montana.
✦Secured its Missoula location through a strategic political agreement during early statehood.
✦Benefited from an 1881 Act of Congress dedicating 46,000 acres of land for its creation.
✦Known historically for transforming Missoula into "the University City."
✦The iconic University Hall's cornerstone was laid in June 1898, marking significant campus development.
✦Operated under the name "Montana State University" from 1945 to 1965 by legislative change.

Timeline

1881

Act of Congress dedicated 46,000 acres of land in Montana Territory for the creation of a university.

1889

Montana was admitted to the Union, initiating the process of locating state institutions.

1893

Missoula won the legislative vote for the new state university's location at the Third Montana Legislative Assembly.

1895

The University of Montana formally opened its doors, initially holding classes at Willard School.

1898

The cornerstone for the A.J. Gibson-designed University Hall was laid, solidifying Missoula's status as "the University City."

1945

The university's name was changed by the legislature to "Montana State University," a title held until 1965.

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