Study: The Economic Impact of MSU

“This study proves the tremendous benefits of hosting world-class universities like MSU.” - Patrick Anderson, principal and CEO of Anderson Economic Group

Economic activity in state related to MSU’s operations tops $3 billion

Whether it’s by providing jobs for thousands of people, attracting funding for research that can change and even save lives, or simply enhancing contributions to the state’s coffers because its alumni are earning high-end salaries, Michigan State University’s economic impact on the state of Michigan is enormous.

According to a newly released 85-page study by Anderson Economic Group, economic activity in the state of Michigan related to MSU’s activities was more than $3 billion in 2005.

Anderson Economic Group, following a rigorous and conservative methodology, found that the state’s residents are more than $2 billion richer annually as a result of the operational expenditures of MSU, additional earnings as a result of increased human capital, and graduate medical education payments to hospitals due to MSU’s medical schools.

Full Story

Economic Impact at a Glance

Michigan's residents were $1 billion richer in FY 2005 due to MSU's operational expenditures.
MSU Extension is present in all counties of the state and the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station conducts research in 14 locations outside of East Lansing.
Over 214,000 MSU alumni living in Michigan earned $923 million more in Michigan in 2005, due to MSU.
Wharton Center's activities resulted in a net economic impact of $4.7 million in the tri-county area during the 2005-06 season.

More at a Glance (PDF)*

Complete Study (PDF)*

* Adobe Acrobat Reader (opens in new window) is required to view this document.