Montana Tech celebrates fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth

Montana Technological University has announced its fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth following the release of official fall 2026 numbers. Total student headcount rose 2% year-over-year, bringing overall enrollment to 2,574 students—an increase of 58 students compared to last year’s 2,516.

Montana Tech’s dual enrollment program saw robust participation this year with 446 students enrolled through Highlands College. Dual enrollment frequently serves as a bridge for students who choose to continue their degree programs at Montana Tech or Highlands College after high school graduation, creating a strong pathway for future enrollment.

“Montana Tech’s growth trajectory is clear evidence that students want a STEM education from Montana’s official STEM university," said Chancellor Johnny MacLean. “We are well-aligned with national priorities, and our students have the highest graduation rates, job placement rates, and starting salaries of all public universities in Montana. That’s the Digger Difference, and people are paying attention.”

Academic colleges across campus are celebrating major milestones this fall. The top undergraduate majors by headcount include: Nursing (237), Mechanical Engineering (218), Business and Information Technology (144), Radiologic Technology (127), and Civil Engineering (123). The Industrial Hygiene–Professional Track continues to lead advanced studies as Montana Tech’s largest graduate program with 65 enrolled students. Meanwhile, innovative new degree offerings are expanding opportunities for students to excel. Launched in Fall 2023, the B.S. in Construction Management program has experienced rapid expansion, reaching 78 students in its fourth year. Additionally, the university’s graduate micro-credentials in extractive technologies continue to gain momentum, driving a 9% growth in the Graduate School.

“The growth across our academic programs highlights the relevance and quality of a Montana Tech education,” said Executive Director of Admissions and Enrollment Leslie Dickerson. “From hands-on undergraduate degrees to our expanding graduate options and dual-enrollment pathways, we are focused on providing high-impact academic experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers.”

The Lance College of Mines and Engineering has seen a remarkable 14% growth over the past four years in undergraduate students, expanding from 787 students in 2023 to 898 in Fall 2026.

A large part of the university’s positive momentum stems from the generosity of Ryan and Lisa Lance, whose visionary support helps keep higher education within reach for Montana families. Now entering its third year, the Lance Scholars Program provides qualifying Montana students with a $4,000 annual scholarship—renewable for up to four years, totaling $16,000. The program’s impact is evident in its outstanding student outcomes, with 84% of the 2025 cohort returning to campus in 2026, a 3% increase over the prior class.

Applications for many of Montana Tech’s major scholarships are now open, with a submission deadline of January 15, while applications for the next Lance Scholars cohort remain open through February 15, 2027. As the state’s STEM institution, Montana Tech awards more than $1 million in scholarships to incoming first-year students annually, reinforcing its commitment to high-value education. For more information about enrollment, degree programs, or scholarship opportunities at Montana Tech, visit www.mtech.edu.