4 BEST VALUE ONLINE SCHOOLS IN MONTANA

With an in-state tuition of under $6,000 a year, Montana State University-Billings is one of the most affordable online colleges in Montana. And because of the variety it offers, MSU Billings is also a great value. Not only does the school feature a long list of online bachelor's programs, but it also provides a whole suite of student support services that include career planning and tutoring. In addition, MSU Billings is known for its cooperative education program, which helps undergrads finance their already cheap education with internships and part-time jobs in a field related to their course of study.

Like its sister school over in Billings, Montana State University-Northern is distinguished by its low tuition and high (almost 50%) online enrollment the hallmarks of a top online school in Montana. Dubbed "Desire2Learn," MSU Northern's distance learning program is every bit as comprehensive as MSU Billings and features even more bachelor's programs. With unique degree offerings that include a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Technology and a Bachelor of Arts in Community Leadership, MSU Northern allows students to develop diverse and technical specializations without spending a lot of money.

The University of Great Falls is a school with an imposing name but a simple mission. Essentially, UGF wants "to provide students with the opportunity to obtain a liberal education for living and for making a living." To this end, the university has developed a number of affordable online degrees in Montana that cater to the educational needs of students and professionals around the state. Bachelor's programs such as Legal and Paralegal Studies, Criminal Justice, and Addictions Counseling are perfect examples of the kind of meaningful and practical career paths awaiting online learners at the University of Great Falls.

In 2009, Rolling Stone claimed that the University of Montana had the "most scenic campus in America." But for students who might be distracted by the beautiful setting, UM's distance learning program offers a convenient alternative. Although there is just one fully online bachelor's degree (a B.A. in Media Arts), the university also offers a bevy of online certificates and minors to help students supplement their education. Plus, UM is home to the "RevUp" program, a unique collaboration with local community colleges and the Montana state government to "quickly train students for good-paying jobs." With so much to offer (not to mention the highest graduation rate on this list) it's no wonder this school lands at the top of our Montana top online colleges ranking.