Information Technology: Building the Backbone of Modern Communities

Is IT right for me?

  • Does the latest technology perk your imagination?

  • Do you enjoy helping others and taking on rewarding challenges?

  • Do you love to problem solve?

If so, a career in Information Technology (IT) may be the perfect fit for you. In an IT career, you will often work with other people to solve technological problems and choose the right technology for the circumstances. Specialties include network administration, information security, and systems administration.

Your Pathway to Success

Keep reading to explore our comprehensive guide to Montana training programs in IT. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.

Check out our Computer Science and IT Career Pathways page to explore in-demand IT jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career in IT.

Table of Contents

Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs

  • Courses in Information Technology (pdf pg. 95)

    • Program Length: Semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: Although Chief Dull Knife College doesn’t currently have a certificate or degree program dedicated to information technology, there are still plenty of opportunities to engage with the quickly growing field. Chief Dull Knife College offers courses in PC repair, web design, local area networks, and more.

  • Computer Repair & Maintenance Rapid Training

    • Program Length: 1 semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: The Computer Repair and Maintenance course covers the basic to more advanced features of maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the PC as required for completion of the A+ Certification Exam. Topics include safety, memory management, operating systems, managing files, software and hardware replacement, upgrades, and installations.

    Information Technology and Security, Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The FVCC Information Technology and Security program deals with the application of computers, networks and security to business problems. The program provides in-depth study of the use of computer applications, systems design and analysis, and the application of the computer as a functional tool within an organization and techniques and tools that can be used to keep these assets safe.

  • Online Cyber Rapid Training CTS Program

    • Program Length: 1 semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: The Accelerated Cybersecurity Certificate of Technical Studies is an online accelerated 12-15 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 CTS program also requires four courses covering basic networking, operating systems, ethical and legal issues, communication skills, and cybersecurity. After completion, students are prepared to earn the CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs). These standard entry-level IRCs are aligned with qualifications for the U.S. Department of Defense Information Assurance Technology and Management job categories.

    Health Information Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Health Information Certificate program is geared for IT professionals and clinicians looking to expand their knowledge in the interdisciplinary domain of electronic health records and health IT, which is the application of information technology in the clinical setting to enhance the quality, accessibility and cost effectiveness of health care.

    Computer Support C.T.S.

    Information Technology & Cybersecurity, Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Technical support professionals in computing and information technology are in high demand. Missoula Colleges Information Technology program offers a number of pathways to credentials. Develop a well-rounded technical background with coursework in data modeling, networking, operating systems, PC hardware, coding, programming, and more. Specific areas of study include computer support, and a network admin and security concentration curriculum. Our general education curriculum prepares students with the communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem- solving skills valued by employers. Combining knowledge, skills, abilities, and tangible experience ensures our graduates are prepared to succeed in an ever-changing workforce

  • Certificate in Database Design and Administration

    • Program Length: 24 weeks

    • Description: Upon completion of the Database Design and Administration Certificate, the student will be able to demonstrate the ability to successfully study and produce academic work at the undergraduate level; apply the fundamentals of database architecture, models, and SQL; gain an understanding of computer architecture and insights on how computer hardware and software function; use and program databases to improve the management of information, and employ the utility of advanced topics in database systems.

    Certificate in IT Security

    • Program Length: 24 weeks

    • Description: Upon completion of the Certificate in IT Security, the student will be able to demonstrate the ability to successfully study and produce academic work at the undergraduate level; apply IT security principles to protect data for individuals and organizations; gain an understanding of computer architecture and insights on how computer hardware and software function; explain the fundamentals computer networks, and apply networking principles to manage communications among computers.

  • Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) in Information Technology

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Fort Peck Community College’s certificate programs are intended to provide the student with training for immediate employment upon completion of one year of study. They tie into AAS degrees in business, computer technology, automotive technology, and business technology. Because of the concentrated training in the specific vocation, a minimum of ten credits in Related Instruction is required.

    Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Information/Networking Technology

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Information / Networking Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) offers you a way to fully develop and gain confidence in IT skills, prepare for taking IT certification exams, and earn a valuable credential that prepares you for jobs in this in-demand career field. Coursework in the Information / Networking Technology AAS degree program aligns with widely recognized and respected IT industry certifications and prepares you with the foundational skills needed to enter the IT profession. Integrating hands-on, applied learning with theory, you will gain practical knowledge and skills essential for a variety of IT positions such as IT Specialist and Network Support Specialist. Approximately 40% of the classroom time contains hands- on training with advanced computer and networking equipment to provide the student with real world experience. Students who are successful in the AAS program will be prepared to take industry exams such as A+, Network+, Server+, Security+, CCNA, and MTA.

  • Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) in IT Computer Network Technology

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Students in the IT Computer Network Technology program at Gallatin College MSU have the opportunity to pursue either an one-year Certificate of Applied Science or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in preparation for careers in the growing Information Technology (IT) industry. Students are introduced to the design, implementation, and management of linked systems of computers and peripherals, as well as ways to maximize network efficiency and productivity. Students will learn to work on computer hardware, software and applications; local area (LAN) and wide area (WAN) networks; principles of information systems security; disk space and traffic load monitoring; data backup; resource allocation and setup and takedown procedures. The final goal of this program is to prepare students to sit for the CompTIA A+ certification test, the CompTIA Network + certification, the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification and/or the Microsoft Technology Associate certification.

    Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance

    • Program Length:

      • C.T.S. = 1 year;

      • A.A.S. = 2 years

  • Cybersecurity Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Cybersecurity Certificate Degree is offered completely online and will prepare students with additional, career tools to continue on the path to a technician/system analyst with a focus on the skills required to understand and conceptualize, design, procure, and/or build secure information technology (IT) systems. Upon completion of the Cybersecurity Certificate Degree, students will be able to successfully provide the support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure effective and efficient information technology (IT) system performance and security as an entry level or higher systems technician/system analyst.

    Cybersecurity Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Cybersecurity Degree prepares students for a career as a system technician/system analyst with a focus on the skills required to understand and conceptualize, design, procure, and/or build secure information technology (IT) systems. Upon completion of the Cybersecurity Degree, students will be able to successfully provide the support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure effective and efficient information technology (IT) system performance and security as an entry level or higher systems technician/system analyst.

    Health Information Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Health Information Technology program is offered completely online and is designed to prepare individuals to organize and evaluate health records for completeness and accuracy. Upon completion of the AAS degree in Health Information Technology, students will be prepared to begin a successful career as a health information technologist. Students are prepared to sit for the National Registered Health Information Technologist exam administered by AHIMA. The Health Information Technology program is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM).

    Information Systems Support A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Upon completion of the Information Systems Support (CIT) Degree, students will be able to maintain personal computers, repair and troubleshoot common hardware problems, and use and assist end-users in using common software applications.

    Network Support & Security A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Great Falls College Computer Information Technology (CIT) Program prepares individuals to assume a role in computer support with skills and responsibilities in user support, hardware and software troubleshooting, basic system maintenance, and cybersecurity. The Network Support & Security Degree prepares students for a career in supporting Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) with a focus on the skills required to understand and manage the operation of a small and large computer network. The students will learn valuable technical skills to identify the security needs of an organization as well as be able to implement the appropriate protection and security of the system.

  • Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) in Information Technology (pdf pg. 99)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Information Technology (pdf pg. 70)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Information Systems – Information Technology curriculum (pdf pg. 70) is designed to prepare a student for entry level employment in the local and regional office and small business environment. The Information Technology program of study prepares a student with in-depth knowledge and demonstrated applications of specific Microsoft applications, and computerized accounting software. This associate of applied science program is founded on the General Education Core Requirements (pdf pg. 52), to provide a broad-based academic background and preparation for the work environment and membership in the community.

  • Network Technician Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    PC Maintenance Assistant Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    Information Technology Network and PC Maintenance Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

  • Cybersecurity Management Certificate


    • Program Length: 1 year


    • Description: College of Business undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Montana have the opportunity to earn credentials (certificates) in Cybersecurity Management. This specialized area is designed to provide you with the technical and managerial skills necessary to work in the cybersecurity field – a key priority among today’s organizations. You will explore a variety of cybersecurity management topics and apply that knowledge through innovative applications.

  • Computer Information Systems, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Computer Information Systems (CIS) graduates will be prepared for technical positions using and supporting computer hardware and software. This degree program prepares students for occupations where computer work ranges from computer applications to network administration.

  • Computer System Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: In the Computer Systems Technology (CST) degree at City College, you will gain hands-on experience with troubleshooting and supporting corporate networks, networking and routing (Cisco levels 1-8), applications (Microsoft Office), operating systems (Windows Server), answering clients' inquiries concerning hardware and software, and cybersecurity. Upon successful completion of the degree, you will be prepared for a variety of industry certifications, such as Cisco and CompTIA Cybersecurity.

    Cybersecurity and Networking, A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: City College’s Cybersecurity and Networking A.A.S. curriculum will prepare you for the growing demands of this career field. In addition to cybersecurity training, you will learn how to provide technical solutions to problems related to hardware and software applications that arise in office settings. This is accomplished through problem analysis using hands-on training, phone service support, and a variety of electronic means to achieve high-level customer satisfaction. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be prepared for a variety of industry certifications, such as CompTIA Cybersecurity and Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician.

  • Network Administration Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Helena College’s Network Administration A.A.S. option includes hands-on courses focusing on real life application of technology. Network administrators are responsible for the upkeep of computer hardware and software systems. They are generally in charge of network address assignments, management, and implementation of protocols. They also handle the maintenance of networks and file servers. In an industry driven by constant progression, our curriculum is evaluated by an advisory council to ensure relevance and student success in the workplace.

  • Information Technology, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Information Technology (IT) provides students with broad and versatile skills to solve a wide range of problems in the field. The core of the curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of IT with a focus on computer hardware, operating systems, system administration, networking, and information security. Students will learn how to handle current and future IT business needs. The AS level program utilizes curricula that focuses on the following certifications: CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA, and the Microsoft 365 Modern Desktop Administrator Associate Certification. The program prepares students for entry level IT helpdesk technician and technology support positions within the workforce.

  • Information Systems, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Information Systems program at Stone Child College is designed to provide the basic education and foundation in the information systems field. Students will be provided with a wide range of skills to solve a variety of problems in the technology field. The curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of information technology, basic programming, database, networking, information security, website development and operating systems. Upon completion, students will be prepared for entry level information systems positions.

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Minors and Four-Year Programs

  • Computer Information Systems Minor or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • B.A. = 4 years

    • Description: Carroll’s CIS program not only offers a very personalized learning experience, but it also offers an authentic real-world learning experience. Students learn by doing projects that are based on real-life applications. In addition, the required CIS Internship gives students that on-the-job experience that reinforces and applies what they have learned in the classroom and gives them a competitive advantage in the job market. The CIS program at Carroll also allows students to emphasize their learning in several ways. Students can focus on Business Technology, Interdisciplinary Studies which integrates the liberal arts into technology, or prepare for graduate school.

  • Business and Information Technology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: B.S. = 4 years

    • Description: The world revolves around technology. More than 50 percent of all U.S. economic activity is related to information technology (IT). With Montana Tech’s Business and Information Technology Bachelor of Science, you will have job opportunities in a variety of industries, including entertainment, national defense, petroleum, transportation, education, health care, and finance. Information systems are also key components in the success of other functional business areas such as accounting, supply chain management, finance, and marketing.

    Cybersecurity and Network Administration B.S.

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • B.S. = 4 years

    • Description: Develop the knowledge and skills you need for cybersecurity careers with the cybersecurity bachelor’s degree at Montana Tech. You’ll learn to design, develop, secure, and support computer networks through a cybersecurity degree that’s rooted in information technology. You’ll also be equipped to pass examinations for industry-recognized certifications. Montana Tech’s cybersecurity faculty is made up of seasoned information technology veterans who bring decades of real-world experience in cybersecurity careers to you. Gain hands-on experience through a cybersecurity degree that includes intensive labs with state-of-the-art industry hardware and software. You’ll also increase your knowledge and skills through cybersecurity internships in Montana and across the country.

  • Management Information Systems Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Earn your degree in management information systems in the University of Montana’s AACSB accredited program and prepare for high-paying careers in IT consulting, systems and business analysis, and network administration. This STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program will give you the skills to use both information and technology to enhance an organization's strategic advantage. All management and information systems majors participate in at least one internship, and our matriculating students are the highest-paid undergraduates at the University of Montana.

  • Information Technology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: The BSIT degree provides a comprehensive experience for learning and application of information technology theories and concepts. The most important component of the program, the capstone project provides the students an opportunity to demonstrate competency and mastery of the knowledge gained throughout the program, along with learning and employing current technology trends. The program prepares the students for both employment opportunities and/or graduate studies in the field of information technology, management information systems, or other related fields.

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Skill Development and Certifications

  • Accelerate Montana is partnering with Gener8tor Skills to teach a free CompTIA A+ Certification Test Prep course to prepare Montanans for in-demand IT jobs. Participants will benefit from small, supportive cohorts and receive one-on-one guidance to achieve career success. Students are expected to take the CompTIA A+ exam within one month from the end of the course. Learners will need 10-15 hours a week for this course. This course is ideal for someone who is already computer savvy and interested in a career in IT. Potential learners should contact Will Richards at will.richards[at]mso.umt.edu to learn more. Twenty-five Montanans will be selected from the final applicant pool to take the class. Download flyer.

  • Accelerate Montana is partnering with Gener8tor Skills to teach a free CompTIA Network+ Certification Test Prep course to help Montanans develop their IT careers. Participants will benefit from small, supportive cohorts and receive one-on-one guidance to achieve career success. Students are expected to take the CompTIA Network+ exam within one week from the end of the course. Learners will need 15-20 hrs/week for this course. This course is ideal for IT professionals who already have the CompTIA A+ certification and a minimum of 9 - 12 months of work experience in the IT industry. Potential learners should contact Will Richards at will.richards[at]mso.umt.edu to learn more. Download flyer.

  • The Missoula Lifelong Learning Center offers a variety of in-person and online classes, certificates, and career training opportunities. The Computer Specialist Support Program will prepare you for the CompTIA A+ certification and prepare you for work in the tech industry.

    The IT Fundamentals Training Program demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace from networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics. The CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam is designed to help you learn more about the world of IT and can also be a stepping stone to more advanced certifications such as CompTIA A+, and, with specialized experience, CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+.

  • CyberMontana is Montana's hub for the cyber workforce economy and offers cybersecurity certifications, trainings, K-12 education resources, and more.

  • The Montana Code School is a program of the University of Montana & Missoula College offered in collaboration with Promineo Tech. The 18-week coding bootcamps prepare participants for high-growth careers in software development and are designed to be accessible, flexible, and allow working professionals who are actively seeking a career change to do so. Students choose from one of two tracks - Back End Software Developer or Front End Software Developer.

  • The CCNA certification proves you have what it takes to navigate the ever-changing landscape of IT. CCNA exam covers networking fundamentals, IP services, security fundamentals, automation and programmability. Designed for agility and versatility, CCNA validates that you have the skills required to manage and optimize today's most advanced networks. The CCNA training course and exam give you the foundation to take your career in any direction. When you certify with Cisco, you are living proof of the standard and rigor that businesses recognize and trust to meet and exceed market demands.

  • The CompTIA A+ Certification establishes the fundamentals of IT by helping candidates better understand how pieces of tech communicate with each other. Candidates will be better prepared to troubleshoot, problem-solve and understand a wide variety of issues ranging from networking and operating systems to mobile devices and security. A+ supports the ability to connect users to the data they need to do their jobs regardless of the devices being used.

  • The ITIL certification helps candidates better understand the four pillars of IT capability. The ITIL 4 Foundation is for anyone who needs to understand the key concepts of IT and digital service delivery, and who is interested in helping their organization embrace the new service management culture. It is for professionals at the start of their ITIL 4 journey or people looking to update their existing ITIL knowledge. The course will help you better understand how modern IT and digital service organizations operate, how value streams increase speed and efficiency, how cultural or behavioral principles guide work that benefits the wider organization, and how to utilize commonly used service management terms and concepts.

  • The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.

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Additional Career Resources

  • Check out our IT career pathways page to explore in-demand IT jobs in Montana.

  • To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.

  • See our video webinar for tips on how to get a job in IT in 2022.

    Don’t have time to watch a webinar? Read the Q + A Transcript from the webinar for a quick recap.

  • We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.

  • Discover summer internships and local mentorship opportunities in Billings through the Campus Billings program hosted by Big Sky Economic Development.

  • CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.

  • Cyberseek is an interactive tool that supports local employers, educators, guidance and career counselors, students, current workers, policy makers and other stakeholders to learn about the U.S. cybersecurity workforce. To help close the cybersecurity skills gap, Cyberseek provides detailed, actionable data about supply and demand in the cybersecurity job market.

  • Today's information technology (IT) careers offer an incredible array of opportunity, variety, passion, and of course, earnings potential. As you explore IT career path options, use the CompTIA IT Salary Calculator to estimate your salary and know your worth during your job search. The calculator includes salary data from 400 different metro areas, covering 85% of the U.S. population.

  • Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.

  • The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.

  • Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the WBL Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.

  • Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.

  • In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.

  • See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing Tech Jobs or Internships in Montana.

  • Learn more about the MSU College of Engineering and Gallatin College. Explore new tech career pathways offered by these institutions to begin your journey into the Montana High Tech industry today.

  • Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.

  • Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry level to Senior level positions.

  • If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.

  • Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

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Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.

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