While Montana represents one of the least populated states in America, the student nurse or career nurse can find urban amenities in cities like Butte, Billings and Helena. Low population also equals low crime rates, a fact that makes this state appealing to visitors and residents. But, with its large rural areas and rural population, Montana seeks nurses who can deal with a variety of diseases, injuries and accidents. Additionally, employment for nurses who specialize in addictions and cancer treatment are welcome.

Becoming a Nurse in Montana

While nurses may face a slim choice of nurse eduction opportunities in Montana, the nurse might remember that this state is mainly rural, and that the population is small (under one million). A nurse who seeks a master’s degree in nursing, therefore, needs to focus on Montana State University in Havre. But, Carroll College in Helena and Salish Kootenai College in Pablo offer the BSN. Miles Community College in Miles City, provides an associate’s degree in nursing with specialties in adult care, anatomy, pharmacology, physiology and psychiatric and mental health care.

Nursing Jobs in Montana

Nurses who choose to work in Montana may find a great career in travel nursing, rural care and family care, including pediatrics and geriatrics. Nurses who focus on women’s health also are in demand. One of the top health care employers in this state includes St. Vincent Healthcare, which is one of the largest medical centers in a four-state area, employing over 1,900 people. St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center in Missoula provides western Montana’s most advanced cancer treatment, and is the regional leader in mental health and addiction treatment. Another top employer includes Kalispell Regional Medical Center, which is home to the most comprehensive medical care in Northwest Montana. Nursing salaries range according to experience, nursing degree, and job description. LPNs in Montana can earn, on average, $33,000 per year, and RNs in this state can average $56,000 per year on average. One of the top paying nurse jobs in Montana includes the RN perioperative nurse, with salary that ranges between $46,000 to $117,000 per year.