Last Updated: Sep 03, 2026 at 2:26pm
Highlands College of Montana Tech
25 Basin Creek Rd
Butte, MT 59701
United States
Institution Overview
Highlands College of Montana Tech delivers career-focused technical education designed to get you job-ready for today’s most in-demand professions in the trades, technology, and healthcare.From one-semester certificates to two-year associate degrees, we provide the hands-on, practical experience you need to immediately enter the workforce and boost your earning potential. Graduate from Highlands College and step directly into a fulfilling career, or seamlessly transfer your credits to a four-year degree program at Montana Tech or another institution.
No matter your goals, you’ll benefit from focused, skills-based instruction taught by industry-experienced faculty. Plus, you’ll enjoy exceptionally affordable tuition while having full access to all the advantages of the Montana Technological University campus.
At Highlands College, your potential is limitless, and we’re here to help you reach a new altitude in your career.
Basic Stats
Type: In-State College / University
Enrollment: 778
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Affiliations:
Montana University System
Montana University System
Which Montana events are you attending:
Montana Fall Fairs, Guide Advertisement, Counselor Update
Montana Fall Fairs, Guide Advertisement, Counselor Update
Official school colors:
Copper and Green
Copper and Green
Costs
In-State Tuition By Credit: $297
Out-Of-State Cost By Credit: $581
In-State Tuition Cost Per Year: $4390
Out-Of-State Cost Per Year: $11220
Books & Supplies Per Year: $1240
Room & Board Per Year: $13362
Application Fee: $0
Ask us about our featured departments
Radiologic Technology
The Radiologic Technology program offers diverse learning opportunities to fit your needs. In addition to our on-site program at Highlands College and clinical partnerships throughout Southwest Montana, we feature a satellite program in Miles City, in collaboration with Miles Community College. This allows students to complete prerequisites through MCC and Montana Tech (online) and fulfill clinical hours within the Miles City region. We also provide clinical hour opportunities in the Great Falls area at the Great Falls Clinic Hospital.
Precision Machining Technology
While studying Precision Machining at Highlands College of Montana Tech, students learn to operate conventional and computer numerical control equipment, precision measuring tools, and advanced machining operations performed on CNC machines. Students also earn the following National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certifications: Materials, Measurement, and Safety; Job planning, Benchwork, and Layout; CNC Operator – Milling and CNC Operator – Turning.
Pre-Apprentice Line Program
Our one-semester Pre-Apprentice Line certificate prepares students for groundman and apprentice positions within the in-demand line trade. Students learn how to assist with the installation, construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical power line systems and earn their CDL Class A-license as part of the program.
Construction Technology—Carpentry
With the Construction Technology—Carpentry program students are prepared for construction industry careers by building a complete 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,400 square foot home from the ground up. This project teaches students the essential skills in floor, wall, and roof framing, as well as installation of windows, doors, roofing, and siding. Students also gain vital experience in project estimation, scheduling, and other critical skills necessary for a successful career in the construction industry.
Social Media Highlights
Nail a high paying job by enrolling in the Construction Technology Program at Highlands College of Montana Tech!🔨Highlands College of Montana Tech named Opportunity College and University by Carnegie Classifications🏆
High school students earn CNA license after Highlands College and partners expand free training program to Billings!🩺
Students graduating from the Lineman program compete in a series of lineman-related tasks in front of family and friends!⚒️
Career Pathways offered by institution
• Advanced Manufacturing, Design & Construction, Health Professions, Information Technology, STEM, Transportation, Welding & Fabrication, Other Specialized ProgramsAcademic Programs
Associate of ScienceAutomotive Technology
Behavioral Health Technician Certificate
Broadband Technology Certificate
Civil Engineering Technology
Computer Networks and Cybersecurity
Construction Technology-Carpentry
Fiber Splicing Certificate
Heavy Equipment Operation Certificate
Mining Technology
Precision Machining Technology
Pre-Apprentice Line Certificate
Radiologic Technology
Warehousing Certificate
Web Development and Administration
Welding Technology
Dates to Remember
- • Trades and Technology Day: Wednesday, October 7, 2026—visit campus and experience academic programs and trades and technology careers.
- • Housing applications can be completed on your personal (URL) upon acceptance to Montana Tech. We encourage students to apply and submit the $100 deposit for housing as soon as possible (by December preferably). Residence Hall assignments are based in the order housing applications and deposits are received. If you withdraw your application before May 1, you'll receive a refund of the housing deposit.
Deadlines
Priority Application Deadline: 1-Dec
Priority Financial Aid Deadline: 1-Dec
Online Resource Links
Visit with us!
Ask us...
What’s my career and earnings potential with a certificate or degree from Highlands College?
Student Life & Community
- • Highlands College is located in historic Butte where headframes from the area’s underground mining past decorate the hills against the backdrop of 360-degree mountain views. You’ll find outdoor recreation opportunities are available in every direction and with Butte being Montana’s Festival City, there’s always something to experience.
- • Students participate in 40+ clubs and organizations and 200+ campus activities are offered each year, including student traditions like Bed Races during Homecoming and Hiking the M on Big Butte during Orientation.
- • Take advantage of the lower tuition rates and shorter program timelines at Highlands College while enjoying the benefits of the Montana Technological University campus. Enjoy opportunities to use campus facilities, connect with campus resources, attend athletic events, join clubs and organizations, and live on campus.
- • The Health, Physical Education and Recreation Complex offers 8,000 square feet of fitness space including a six-lane 25-meter pool, a cardio and weight room, dance studio, and more.
- • There are three residence halls to choose from. The Student Success Center includes a residence hall, student services, advising, tutoring, an eatery. Highlands College students are welcome to live on campus but are not required.
Campus Visit
Personalized campus visits are offered most weekdays in-person and virtually. Schedule your next adventure at mtech.edu/visits.We're confident you'll love our campus overlooking beautiful Uptown Butte. To prove it, if you're visiting from more than 100 miles away, we're offering a one-night hotel stay, on us when you book your individual campus tour through your personal URL (PURL). To fill out our inquiry form and generate your PURL go to mtech.edu/visits.
Trades and Technology Day allows high school juniors and seniors to participate in hands-on activities in their field of interest at an exciting day packed with exploration and hands-on experiences in the fields of trades and technology. For more information visit mtech.edu/visits. The Trades and Technology date is:
• Wed, October 7, 2026
Campus Orientation
Orientation takes place a few days before courses begin for the fall and spring semesters. Admitted students will receive information about orientation dates and final details about how to complete their admissions file. Move-in and orientation in the fall typically start the Wednesday before classes begin. Additionally, students will receive invitations for one of the in-person or virtual Registration Rallies to enroll in courses before orientation.Highlights
- • $60,320 Median Starting Salary (Montana Tech Outcomes Survey, 2025)
- • 52% of first-time students receive grant or scholarship aid averaging over $4,560 (Institutional Research, 2024)
- • Highlands College was named an Opportunity College by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
Important Things To Know
- • Eligible high school students can take up to six credits for free at Highlands College through the Montana University System (MUS) One-Two-Free dual enrollment program. After using six free credits, high school students pay 50% of Highlands College tuition. Learn more at mtech.edu/highlands/dual-enrollment.
- • Highlands College also offers workforce development programs including the Certified Driver's License (CDL) Program and the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program. More information is available at mtech.edu/workforce development.
- • Highlands College students have opportunities to get involved in the community through internships, industry-partnerships, and service-learning projects. In the Construction Technology—Carpentry program, students complete a home that is placed in the community in partnership with non-profit organizations.
Last Updated: Sep 03, 2026 at 2:26pm