Montana State University (MSU) has made history by becoming the first university in Montana to enroll over 17,000 students, reaching a fall headcount of 17,144—an increase of 1% from last year’s record of 16,978. This milestone solidifies MSU’s position as the largest university in the four-state region, which includes Wyoming and the Dakotas.
The university welcomed 3,611 new first-time college students this fall, with 1,497 being Montana residents. Nearly half of the student body, 49%, comprises Montana residents, totaling 8,369—the highest number enrolled at any college in the state. In total, MSU boasts a record 15,053 undergraduate students and 2,091 graduate students.
Enrollment growth has also been significant across various demographic categories. The number of American Indian/Alaska Native students reached 856, a 5% increase from last year, while the counts for Hispanic (1,119), Asian (731), African American (321), and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (143) students also set new records.
“Enrollment is a clear indicator of how we are fulfilling Montana State’s land-grant mission to expand higher education access,” said MSU President Waded Cruzado. “We celebrate these records because college degrees change lives and contribute to a strong American democracy.”
Additionally, MSU achieved a record full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment of 15,586, indicating that students are taking more courses per semester, which is essential for timely graduation and reduced student debt.
“Taking on more demanding course loads helps students progress toward their degrees more quickly,” noted Steve Swinford, MSU’s vice president for student success. Since 2011, MSU has encouraged students to enroll in at least 15 credits per semester—a campaign known as the Freshman 15. This year, 87% of incoming freshmen and 67% of all students are participating, both record numbers.
MSU also saw its student retention rate rise to a modern high of 78.4%, which is a strong predictor of future success and graduation.
“There’s a real sense of energy on campus this fall,” said Robert Mokwa, MSU’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Our faculty and instructors are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for students, fueling their excitement for college.”
The university is enhancing its support services, including the recently opened Student Wellness Center, which consolidates various wellness resources for students.
As the largest university in Montana, MSU is vital in meeting the state’s workforce needs. This year, Gallatin College MSU, the university’s two-year programs, enrolled a record 1,101 students, a 22% increase, preparing students for immediate employment in high-demand fields.
“MSU graduates are critical to Montana’s economy,” Cruzado added. “We are committed to equipping students with the skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions to their communities.”
In the past academic year, MSU awarded a record 3,657 degrees, with four-year graduation rates rising to 40.8% and five-year rates reaching 54.9%. The six-year graduation rate remained steady at 57%.
Additional enrollment highlights include:
– **On-Campus Housing:** 4,537 students are living in residence halls, while 948 reside in MSU Student Apartments, with about a quarter of students living on campus.
– **Dual Enrollment:** MSU welcomed 401 dual-enrollment students, allowing high school students to earn college credits.
– **Veteran Benefits:** The university enrolled 579 students receiving veteran benefits, a 4% increase from last year.
– **Montana University System Honor Scholarship:** 138 students received this scholarship, representing 65% of the recipients statewide.
– **Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship:** This college set an enrollment record with 2,306 students.
The fall headcount is finalized after the 15th day of classes each semester.