Georgia College Economic Impact Jumps to $360 Million

By Mike Cavaliere

G eorgia College & State University generated over $360 million in total economic impact throughout Central Georgia last year - more than 8.1%, or $27 million, more than the impact it generated in 2024.

With about 1,000 workers from the region employed on campus, the university continues to stand as one of the area's top job-creators, as well.

The new findings were announced this month - results of a study commissioned by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and conducted by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia.

"Making a positive impact on the surrounding community is a goal of every public institution, and we're proud to generate such significant benefits to Baldwin County and beyond," said GCSU President Cathy Cox. "The benefits of a high-quality liberal arts education on graduates' careers, however, are lifelong - and GCSU is producing more graduates than ever before. We are grateful that our distinctive mission gives us the ability to serve as Baldwin County's largest employer and truly make a difference throughout this region."

This fall, Georgia College welcomes its largest-ever incoming class of 1,850 first-year students, marking an all-time high total enrollment of nearly 7,500. This accomplishment registers four consecutive years of record-breaking growth for the institution.

While GCSU attracts students from nearly every county in the state of Georgia, the study of economic impact focuses on the university's impact in its home county of Baldwin County and the nearby counties of Putnam, Hancock, Wilkinson, Washington, Jones and Bibb.

"This rush of student demand serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of liberal arts skills to the Georgia workforce," Cox added. "Our students aren't just prepared for their first jobs; here, they learn how to become leaders. They develop essential skills like critical thinking, communication, teamwork and problem-solving, which remain durable across industries and adaptable through unpredictable market changes."

A companion study released by the USG confirms the value of higher education, crediting the University System of Georgia as a whole with a $25 billion economic impact on the state of Georgia.

Bachelor's degree holders are shown to earn $1.4 million more, on average, than their peers without a college education, according to the study. Master's degree holders earn roughly $1.7 million more and those who hold professional or doctoral degrees earn $2.4-2.8 million more.

"A USG degree isn't just a diploma. It's a game-changer for our students and a major win for Georgia's economy," USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. "Adding $25 billion to the state and giving our graduates a $1.4 million lifetime boost shows the real power of public higher education. When our students succeed, they put strong skills, a great work ethic and real value right back into Georgia communities."