Head-to-head · 2026
Helena College University of Montana vs The University of Montana
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 3 wins for Helena College University of Montana, 2 for The University of Montana — Helena College University of Montana has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Helena College University of Montana | The University of Montana |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 8.79 ✓ | 6.63 |
| Avg net price | $11,593 ✓ | $16,784 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $40,738 | $44,511 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | Open / not reported | 95.9% |
| Graduation rate | 33.3% | 48% ✓ |
| Median debt | $14,580 ✓ | $22,400 |
| Enrollment | 585 | 7,488 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1190 |
| Wins | 3 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
The University of Montana costs $5,191 more per year than Helena College University of Montana ($16,784 vs $11,593). The University of Montana graduates report $3,773 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,511 vs $40,738). On EduGradify's model that puts Helena College University of Montana ahead on projected ROI (8.79 vs 6.63, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Helena College University of Montana) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, The University of Montana reports 95.9% acceptance; Helena College University of Montana does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Helena College University of Montana vs The University of Montana, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Helena College University of Montana or The University of Montana the better value?
Helena College University of Montana has the higher EduGradify ROI score (8.79 vs 6.63), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Helena College University of Montana is cheaper — average net price $11,593 per year vs $16,784 at The University of Montana. The annual difference of $5,191 adds up to about $20,764 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
The University of Montana reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,511 vs $40,738 at Helena College University of Montana. The annual gap in the federal data is $3,773.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Helena College University of Montana reports a B value grade; The University of Montana reports C.