<p>These two schools are on my son's radar as safeties in case he doesn't get into CU-Boulder, his top choice. </p>
<p>He's a science type, thinking of bio-chem or physics. I hear Montana State is actually better in the sciences than University of Montana. But that's about all I know of either school. </p>
<p>So, parents -- thoughts?</p>
<p>In those fields, definitely MSU. Bit of a party school, but I know several bright young men pursuing physics there.</p>
<p>Montana State. Plus Bozeman is lovely town. </p>
<p>(And if by chance he’s at all interested in paleontology–Jack Horner is there and MSU has a world class program. D is thinking of doing the summer field program at MSU just because she loves the area, is fascinated by dinosaurs and dino research.)</p>
<p>Back in the day, Montana State (then known as Montana Tech) offered me an athletic scholarship pretty much sight unseen. I still get laughs from friends when they recall that I was recruited by the powerhouse ‘ORE-DIGGERS.’</p>
<p>We enjoyed our visit to MSU with S#3 and agree with the previous posters’ comments. The word I would use to describe the campus is wholesome. Another plus is the nice merit aid for non-residents based solely on SAT/ACT scores.</p>
<p>Actually, UM has a VERY strong chem department and a rather solid bio department. MSU is stronger in physics/engineering. UM is great school overall, and both schools have excellent merit money for select top students. Missoula is generally considered a better town, but Bozeman has better skiing, I think.</p>
<p>Anyone, feel free to PM me for further info on UM.</p>