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Montana has picked up the highest rating in the nation for turning out an increase in the number of college graduates in the last three years.

The report, released by the U.S. Department of Education, shows Montana increasing the number of college graduates by 3.2% from 2009 to 2010, more than double any other state. The national average is half a percent.

Governor Brian Schweitzer attributes the success to lower tuition rates as well as scholarships and jobs that await those who get the higher education.

"In Montana we made it more affordable, and we made it more relevant. We are now graduating students in curriculum that we actually have jobs waiting for them," Schweitzer said.

"And our two-year programs have rapidly re-tooled so that we can attract new companies to come to Montana for these emerging jobs that we are now producing to graduates."

Schweitzer also said that allowing transferable credits between colleges and more programs for high school students to get college credits has also been incentive to earn a higher degree.