Story: Betsy Compton
A new economic impact study shows the University of West Alabama generates $448.4 million in annual economic activity across the state, supporting businesses, communities, and workforce development throughout Alabama.
The study highlights the significant role UWA plays in strengthening the state鈥檚 economy through university operations, student and visitor spending, and the long-term contributions of alumni working across Alabama.
鈥淭he University of West Alabama is transforming lives through education while also strengthening the economic future of the State of Alabama,鈥� said University President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. 鈥淥ur graduates are making meaningful contributions in classrooms, hospitals, businesses, and communities across Alabama. We are proud to highlight the lasting impact of a UWA education鈥攏ot only for our students, but for the entire state. The study delves into the impacts of alumni, student, and university spending throughout the state, the number of jobs supported, visitor spending, and much more to recognize the value that this University brings to not only the region but the entire state.鈥�
Alumni Drive the Largest Share of Economic Impact
The study found that the largest share of UWA鈥檚 economic impact comes from its graduates working across Alabama. Alumni contribute $388.4 million in income to the state鈥檚 economy each year through higher earnings and increased productivity in the workforce.
In total, UWA alumni working across Alabama support 6,615 jobs in industries ranging from education and healthcare to business and public service.
Economic Activity Across the State
In addition to alumni contributions, several other factors contribute to the University鈥檚 overall economic impact.
University operations鈥攊ncluding payroll and spending on goods and services鈥攇enerated $44.1 million in income for the Alabama economy during the study year.
Student spending also plays a role in supporting local businesses and communities. Spending by students attending UWA generated $10.2 million in economic activity statewide, while visitors traveling to campus for events and activities contributed $1.3 million in additional income to the state economy.
Construction activity at the University also contributed to the state鈥檚 economy, generating $3 million in added income during the fiscal year.
A Strong Investment in Education
Beyond its economic impact, the study highlights the long-term value of a UWA education.
Graduates benefit from increased earning potential throughout their careers. The study found that the average UWA master鈥檚 graduate earns approximately $12,500 more per year than someone with only a bachelor鈥檚 degree working in Alabama鈥攁n advantage that can total about $400,000 in additional earnings over a career.
Students also see strong returns on their educational investment. On average, students receive $2.70 in lifetime earnings for every dollar invested in their education, representing a higher than national average annual return of 14.6 percent.
Broader Benefits to Alabama
The study also found that the University generates significant long-term benefits for Alabama鈥檚 economy and society. In total, the long-term economic and social benefits associated with UWA amount to $1.1 billion in value for Alabama society, including increased workforce productivity and savings related to health, justice system, and income assistance costs.
Learn more about UWA’s economic impact study findings and explore the full Economic Impact Study.
About the Study The economic impact analysis reflects fiscal year 2023鈥�24 data provided by the University of West Alabama for a study conducted using Lightcast鈥檚 economic modeling tools and incorporates data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, and other national sources. The analysis measures both the economic impact created by UWA and the return on investment for students, taxpayers, and society.