Pennsylvania has a rich history in higher education, with world class universities in the public and private sectors — including some of the best independent nonprofit colleges in America.

Our state is unique in the impact of its independent nonprofit higher education institutions on the state economy and workforce, and in the vitality of the 58 local PA communities in which they have been embedded for an average 140 years.

An independent study confirms that these institutions are top of the class economic generators and community anchors.

This just released report on the 80+ independent nonprofit PA schools (known as AICUP–the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of PA) concludes that these AICUP schools support almost 200,000 jobs in Pennsylvania every year, generate an annual Pennsylvania economic impact of

$29 billion (larger than the budget of 28 states), and provides a stunning 158-to-1 return on taxpayer investment.

The report confirms that independent nonprofit schools don’t just prepare the workforce of tomorrow, they enhance Pennsylvania’s economy today.

Even if you haven’t heard of this group of schools, you’re already familiar with their work. AICUP schools employ 1 in 33 workers in Pennsylvania, they supply 39,000 new PA workers every year, they’re the top employer in 3 counties, and among the top 25 employers in 19 counties. In fact, the PA Chamber of Commerce and Industry named higher education “the fifth largest industry” in Pennsylvania, and AICUP schools constitute half the entire sector.

AICUP graduates in this “industry” are an inclusive bunch:

— 45% of PA teacher cert candidates

— 47% of low-income students pursuing bachelor’s degrees

— 52% of working age adult students’ re-skilling/up-skilling

— 55% of all minority students pursuing bachelor’s degrees

— 58% of STEM graduates

— 69% of all nursing degrees.

Some AICUP schools have teaching hospitals, and when combined, these AICUP “eds and meds” along with the rest of the AICUP schools contribute a jaw-dropping $65 billion to the state economy–almost 50% more than coal and natural gas combined.

In fact, when you include their teaching hospitals, the AICUP schools make up nearly 7% of the state’s economy.

They are also the lifeblood of 58 communities and “college towns.” Each year, AICUP students and their families spend over $5.3 billion in these local communities.

Additionally, the 80+ independent, nonprofit AICUP colleges and universities in Pennsylvania generate $1.5 billion in state and local taxes, providing the funds for k-12 schools, law enforcement, community centers and even street lights.

The impact of AICUP schools on Pennsylvania goes well beyond dollar figures.

The report confirms that AICUP schools give over $200 million each year through charitable giving and volunteer hours.

With the start of a new school year, PA should celebrate this asset that has made our state the second-top net importer of students in the nation (for over 30 years) and the 2025 Wall Street Journal’s third ranked state for quality outcomes in higher education. Look at the data:

— $29 billion value, 200,000 jobs, 7% of the state economy, $158 returned for every tax dollar invested, and community anchors for 58 cities and towns — now that’s a return on investment.

Tom Foley is President of AICUP. He previously served as a college president and as the state Secretary of Labor and Industry. He is a first generation-to-college graduate.