Tennessee Universities support Tennessee communities.

A four-year public degree is good for your community and good for you.

New research from Middle Tennessee State University confirms what Tennessee’s public universities see every day: higher education remains one of the strongest investments a person can make.

The study found that each additional year of postsecondary education increases annual wages by nearly 14%, with positive returns across every major industry sector examined. From agriculture and manufacturing to health care and education, higher education helps individuals earn more, strengthens workforce pipelines and supports long-term economic growth across Tennessee.

Explore the findings and see why investing in higher education is an investment in Tennessee’s future.

Average wage increase per additional year of education*

0 %

*Based on the MTSU Value of Higher Education Study

good for tennessee

Workforce development

Tennessee’s most in-demand workforce needs such as educators, doctors and engineers all require a four-year degree.

training

Over 70% of Tennessee business leaders see a workforce skills gap, but public universities are bridging it with skilled employees.

Economic growth

Public universities significantly boost the U.S. economy; a 1% rise in bachelor’s degrees in the 2010s would’ve added $130.5 billion.

good for Tennesseans

Healthier

Public college grads have higher-paying jobs, better health, and improved well-being, contributing to society’s prosperity.

Thriving

A Bachelor’s degree yields $1.4M more in earnings compared to high school diplomas; 90% of TN public universities rank high in graduate economic mobility.

connected

Universities bring people together through dorm life, clubs, sporting events, volunteer opportunities and more, and individuals with a bachelor’s degree are twice as likely to report satisfaction with their lives than those without.