Georgia College & State University (GCSU) had a total economic impact of over $333 million on Middle Georgia last year, a 8.1% increase from 2023.

The university also supported 3,102 jobs in 2024, with 978 on campus and 2,124 off-campus jobs attributed to institutional spending.

According to a study by the University of Georgia's Selig Center for Economic Growth, a bachelor's degree from a University System of Georgia institution can lead to an average of $1.4 million more in lifetime earnings compared to those without a college degree.

The study also showed lifetime earnings increases based on degree type:

• Certificate: +$292,582

• Associate degree: +$462,576

• Bachelor's degree: +$1,414,108

• Master's degree: +$1,717,175

• Professional degree: +$2,659,505

• Doctoral: +$2,499,996

GCSU’s 8.1% growth in economic impact outpaced the University System of Georgia's overall growth of 5.4% from 2023 to 2024. The university's enrollment has reached over 7,200 students, the largest in its history. Despite this growth, small class sizes remain a key part of the GCSU experience, with three out of every four classes having fewer than 30 students.

Looking ahead, GCSU has several capital projects underway to enhance the student experience, including renovations to Herty Hall, a new music rehearsal hall, baseball stadium upgrades, a new esports lab, and improvements to its intramural fields, parking, and the Andalusia National Historic Landmark.