Directly employing 10,346 people in fiscal year 2023, USU is the largest employer in Cache County and the seventh-largest in the state of Utah — Intermountain Health tops the list with 20,000-plus employees. USU supported nearly another 7,000 indirect jobs as well.

With 30 campuses across the state, the university enrolled over 28,000 students and awarded 6,764 degrees and certificates across its 300-plus programs. Liberal Arts and Science, General Studies and Humanities led the way with 874 degrees awarded, while Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and related protective services was the caboose, with two degrees awarded.

In the world of research, the report says USU received $450 million in research funding in FY 2023 — 73% of which came from federal sources. The funding aided 6,665 jobs, resulting in $385 million in earnings and $937 million in output throughout Utah.

“Beyond its quantifiable economic contribution, USU benefits its students, employees, and community across four key areas: workforce quality and development, research and commercialization, student experience, and community supports and services,” the report states.

Of USU’s $1.2 billion in revenue, 62% of it was put toward personnel — both research and public service, and instruction and academic support — while the remaining 38% was non personnel, primarily institutional support and operations.

Grants and contracts, state appropriations, and tuition and fees made up for 36.5%, 27.2% and 14.5% of USU’s revenue, respectively.

USU Interim President Alan L. Smith provided a statement following the report.

“As a land-grant university, we are deeply committed to serving the public good,” he said. “This study confirms that we are not only changing lives but also driving billions in economic impact across the state. USU plays a vital role in strengthening local economies, expanding opportunity, and fueling innovation.

“It’s a powerful reminder that investing in higher education is investing in Utah.”

Andrea Brandley, senior education analyst for the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute and lead author of the report, said USU does more than just educate students.

“Utah State University contributes meaningfully to Utah’s economy — not only by educating students and strengthening the workforce, but also through its employment, spending, and research activity,” she said. “These activities generate ripple effects across Utah, supporting jobs, businesses, and economic growth statewide.”

The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute is directly associated with the University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business.