Computer Engineering at Montana State University

Bozeman, MT · Public · Bachelor's Degree
70 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
71
Optimistic
70
Base Case
64
Pessimistic
Earnings $67,015/yr (-15% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (71% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (167,700 openings/yr)
ROI 21.6x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #139 of 174 Computer Engineering programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Computer Engineering graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $723K $697K $584K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 22.4x 21.6x 18.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.8x 5.6x 4.7x
Probability of Field Employment 84% 74% 43%
DegreeOutlook Score 71 70 64

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$32,332
Out-of-state: $125,348 (5.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$82,372
-155% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
4.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $67,015/yr, Computer Engineering graduates from Montana State University land near the $78,694 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 21.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 19% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Engineering career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

The median debt load of $27,000 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

A #139 ranking among 174 Computer Engineering programs places Montana State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Montana State University

With 87% of applicants admitted, Montana State University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 14,472 in Bozeman, MT.

See all programs and financial aid at Montana State University →

Top Career Paths

Architectural and engineering managers $167,740/yr
Computer hardware engineers $155,020/yr
Database architects $135,980/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Computer Engineering at Other Schools

Other Majors at Montana State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 70/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Engineering at Montana State University?
At 70/100, the score looks reasonable — but Computer Engineering is a high-scoring field overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
Should I worry about AI if I study Computer Engineering at Montana State University?
The 71% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →