Book photo

College 101

Welcome to College 101: Introduction to Higher Education! Your MUS college will be pretty different from your high school. Although it’s exciting, it can also feel overwhelming. Prepare yourself for college success by learning what to expect from your first semester.

Why Go To College?

College is an opportunity to develop in every aspect of your life -- not only academically and professionally, but socially, emotionally, and personally. Going to college can ignite your passions, provide a clear professional pathway, and help you become a leader. Best of all, MUS offers a wide variety of programs to suit every student’s interests and needs.
16
MUS schools
82%
first-time students receive financial aid
600+
programs across all MUS campuses

Benefits of Attending College

The Basics

Whether you’re a high school student gearing up to apply, an adult learner ready to go back to school, or you’re the first in your family to attend college, there’s a lot you can do to prepare for college well before your first day of class. 
 
College can be a challenge, but understanding the academic lingo shouldn’t be. Whether you’re a first-generation college student, or you just aren’t quite sure of the difference between accreditation and articulation, we’ve got your back. Familiarize yourself with the terms you’ll need to navigate college with confidence.
 
Nervous about your first semester of college? MUS is here to help you succeed. From how to handle your first week of class to dealing with homesickness, learn how to tackle some of the common challenges you may experience in college with our 25 essential tips. 

Settling into MUS Student Life

Wondering what a day in the life of a Montana student is like? The answer will be a little different for everyone. Whether you play a sport, join a club, or host study groups, every student can find a routine and community that makes them feel at home. 
Jessy Stevenson
I definitely remember my first semester as a whole pretty well. Trying to find some sort of community I fit into on campus, I ended up finding the Montana Wilderness Association Student Chapter. I really quickly fell in with this wonderful group of people who would come to be some of my best friends.
Jessy Stevenson
University of Montana student