Founded in 1850, the University of Utah stands as the state’s flagship university and the region’s hub of higher education. The U’s physical presence extends to 37 cities and 15 counties in Utah with additional locations around the United States and worldwide. A new study from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute confirms the U’s significant economic contributions and enduring societal impact through education, research, and health care.
“The University of Utah is driving Utah’s future through education, research, and engagement that strengthen our economy, benefit our communities, and prepare students for lifelong success,” said University of Utah President Taylor Randall. “New data from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute reinforce that this approach is working, advancing a model of higher education with real, measurable impact that improves the lives and health of Utahns.”
Andrea Brandley, senior education analyst at the Gardner Institute and lead author of the report, emphasized, “The University of Utah ranks among the largest and most significant drivers of economic activity in the state. The U also creates substantial long-term value by developing human capital, strengthening the workforce, advancing innovation, and improving community well-being.”
Key findings from the report include the following:
Employment – The University of Utah directly employed 44,801 individuals across its campus, health system, and component units in FY 2024, making it the second largest employer in the state. The U supports nearly 100,000 jobs in Utah, representing 4.1% of jobs statewide.
Economic Activity – The U supported $7.6 billion in earnings, $10.3 billion in gross domestic product (GDP), and $18.1 billion in output (total sales) in Utah in FY 2024. This accounts for about 4.9% of total earnings, 3.7% of GDP, and 3.6% of total output statewide.
Education – The U enrolled more than 35,000 students across more than 300 degree and certificate programs during the 2023-24 academic year and awarded more than 9,000 degrees and certificates. These graduates support Utah’s workforce with nearly three-quarters of U graduates employed in-state five years after graduation.
Research – The University of Utah is a nationally recognized R1 university and member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). The university expended more than $700 million on research-related activities in FY 2024, with approximately two-thirds of funding from federal sources, bringing new resources into Utah while advancing innovation, workforce training, and discovery.
Societal Benefits – Beyond the economic contribution, the U’s students, employees, and communities benefit from workforce quality and development, research and commercialization, student experience, and community supports and services. Institutions such as the Natural History Museum, Red Butte Gardens, Pioneer Theatre Company, and others contribute to the state’s cultural identity. The U’s global sports influence and commitment to excellence in athletics will be on full display this winter as well, as 30 athletes with ties to the University of Utah will compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics. This achievement makes the U the top ranked U.S. institution in athletic representation at the Milano Cortina Games.
Health – University of Utah Health (U of U Health) represents a major component of the university’s economic contribution. As Utah’s only academic medical center, the health system serves patients from across the state and region, supporting employment, training much of the state’s health care workforce, and improving health outcomes.
The full report is now available online. The Gardner Institute has also completed similar economic contribution studies for other public institutions in the state, including Utah State University and Southern Utah University.
