As the education hub for Cybersecurity and IT in Montana, we host programs that accommodate learners from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. In addition to our programs, we highlight Cybersecurity and IT certifications and degrees at all colleges and institutions statewide. Below is a thorough list of Montana institutions offering Cybersecurity and/or IT programs. We hope that by providing a view of all Cybersecurity and IT higher education programs across the state, learners can find the program that best fits their needs and interests based on location, program duration, and course format (in-person, online, asynchronous).
Find a comprehensive list of Montana institutions on this page to browse additional programs at respective colleges. If programs at your local college are not yet included, reach out to Kristal Crowley (kristal.crowley@cybermontana.org) with information about your curriculum options and opportunities.
The National Security Agency (NSA) awards select colleges and universities throughout the country as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD). This prestigous designation is only granted to those who deliver upon an NSA-approved cybersecurity curriculum, led by faculty with appropriate industry recognized credentials.
Becoming an NCAE-CD designated institution is a rigorous process with an evaluation focused on outputs for determining academic achievement. Accredited institutions promote cybersecurity higher education and develop qualified professionals to meet the nations growing workforce demands.
All regionally accredited two-year, four-year, and graduate-level institutions in the U.S. are eligible to apply for a NCAE-CD designation. Institutions must apply to be re-evaluated every five academic years. More information is available from the Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
More information is available from the Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity
Missoula College, UM
Missoula College became a designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense in 2017 and was the first institution in Montana to achieve this distinction. Under the leadership of Dr. Tom Gallagher, Professor, and Dean of Missoula College, the College has awarded Certificates of Technical Studies in Cybersecurity and Associates of Applied Science degrees in Networking and Information Security as an NCAE institution.
Dr. Victor Valgenti serves as the Program Director for Information Technology and oversees eight faculty members teaching the curriculum.
Missoula College is leading a "Community of Practice" among the 2-year colleges in Montana which shares resources and curricular information that strengthens cybersecurity education throughout the state.
Great Falls College, MSU
Great Falls College became a designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense in 2019 and works collaboratively with Missoula College UM and Gallatin College MSU on curriculum and programs, including Common Course Numbering.
Under the leadership of Steven Robinett, Department Chair for the Computer Technology program, Great Falls College offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree and a Certificate of Technical Studies in Cybersecurity, as well as additional IT-related Associate Degrees.
This is an online accelerated 10-15 week program that prepares students with entry-level cybersecurity knowledge covering basic networking, operating systems, ethical and legal issues, communication skills, and cybersecurity. Students who are motivated to succeed will thrive in the CTS program.
The Cyber Rapid Training CTS Program is designed primarily for two categories of learners:
AAS in Computer Programming
AAS in Cybersecurity
AAS in Network Support & Security
Certificate of Technical Studies in Cybersecurity*
Certificate of Technical Studies in Cloud Computing
Certificate of Technical Skills in IT Professional Cybersecurity
