About the University of Montana Online
Think critically. Live ethically. Explore creatively. These are the ideals to which our students, faculty, researchers and staff aspire. At the University of Montana, we set a high bar for academic studies, creative accomplishments, and scientific exploration to benefit our students, community, and world.
Why Choose UM
The University of Montana draws a diverse, global student population, which leads to a vibrant community. In our online programs, you’ll connect with classmates and professors with varying perspectives and experiences. The University values leadership, engagement, diversity and sustainability. As a community, we are humbled by our long history. At the same time, we are optimistic about our capacity to create a UM of tomorrow that fosters inclusive prosperity, expands the boundaries of human knowledge and sustains American democracy.
Accreditation
The university is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Our Master of Social Work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Recognition
The Carnegie Commission on Higher Education classifies the University of Montana as a Doctoral University: High Research Activity. We are also a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon program. We are ranked as one of the best graduate schools for social work and top public schools (national) by U.S. News & World Report.
Fast Facts
- Founded in 1893
- A proud Yellow Ribbon school
- Multiple start dates each year
- 100% online program
- World-class research
Request Information
Complete this form to receive information about coursework, admissions, tuition, and more.
All fields required
Our Mission
The University of Montana transforms lives by providing high-quality and accessible education and generating world-class research and creative scholarship in an exceptional place. We integrate the liberal arts and sciences into undergraduate, graduate and professional studies to shape global citizens who are creative and agile learners committed to expanding the boundaries of knowledge and to building and sustaining diverse communities.
Our Vision
At the University of Montana, students develop the skills they need to thrive in a world full of obstacles and a future full of unknowns. Here, it’s a whole new frontier of learning, where students from every walk of life have access to a world-class education; where the institution, the people and the place all embody a bold, gritty, undauntable spirit.
Our Values
As members of the University of Montana community, we aspire to:
- Respect the dignity and rights of all persons.
- Practice honesty, trustworthiness and academic integrity.
- Promote justice, learning, individual success and service.
- Act as good stewards of institutional resources.
- Respect the natural environment.
Our History
Founded in 1893, we are proud of our long history of academic excellence. An act of Congress of Feb. 18, 1881, dedicated 72 sections (46,000 acres) in Montana Territory for the creation of a university. Missoula won the legislative vote for the new university in February 1893 at the third Montana legislative assembly.
UM formally opened in 1895. While plans for a university campus were progressing, classes were temporarily held at nearby Willard School. The South Missoula Land Company, owned by A.B. Hammond, Richard Eddy and Marcus Daly, joined with the Higgins family in donating land for the new campus. In June 1898 the cornerstone for A.J. Gibson designed University Hall was laid and Missoula became “the University City.”