University of Utah: A Big Boost for Jobs, Money and Learning

The University of Utah is the state’s second‑largest school, but its influence stretches far beyond campus. A fresh report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute shows how the university fuels Utah’s economy, creates jobs, and shapes culture. In 2024 the U. directly hired nearly 45 000 people, making it the second biggest employer after Intermountain Health. When you add the indirect jobs tied to its activities, almost 100 000 positions benefit Utah residents. Financially, the university helped generate $7. 6 billion in earnings, $10. 3 billion in GDP and $18. 1 billion in sales that year, a sizeable slice of the state’s totals. Large construction projects—new student housing, a medical school building and cancer research centers—spurred further growth. The U. ’s yearly capital spend of $747 million supported 5, 590 jobs and added $1. 2 billion to the economy.Education remains a core driver. More than 35 000 students enrolled in over 300 programs during the last academic year, and the school awarded roughly 9 000 degrees. Nearly three‑quarters of its graduates stay in Utah within five years, boosting local wages and tax revenue. The university also pours over $700 million into research each year, mostly from federal money, which brings new ideas and jobs to the region. The U. ’s cultural footprint is visible in museums, gardens, theater and sports. Thirty former athletes will compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics, giving the school national recognition in athletics. In science, a U. biochemist helped develop an HIV prevention drug that earned a top award from the journal Science, showing how research can change lives worldwide. Health care is another pillar. The university’s medical center supplies patients across Utah and trains future clinicians. In the 2023‑24 year, it enrolled more than 6 000 health students and produced 1 300 new professionals to meet the growing demand for medical services as the population ages.