Graduates of Georgia Highlands College (GHC) are set to significantly out-earn their peers without college degrees, with bachelor’s degree holders projected to earn an astounding $1.4 million more in lifetime earnings, according to a new economic impact study commissioned by the University System of Georgia (USG). This comprehensive analysis underscores the profound long-term value and financial return of a GHC education.

The study also highlights substantial gains for associate degree earners from GHC, who can expect to accumulate approximately $462,575 more over their lifetime compared to those without a college degree. For the 813 graduates in GHC’s Class of 2024 alone, this translates into a combined incremental boost of over $524 million in lifetime earnings, contributing to a staggering $1.92 billion total in projected lifetime earnings across both associate and bachelor’s degree recipients.

“These numbers highlight the life-changing economic power of higher education,” stated GHC President Mike Hobbs. “Our graduates are not only securing brighter futures for themselves and their families, but they are also driving growth and prosperity across Northwest Georgia.”

Adding to the compelling economic incentive, GHC maintains a highly affordable tuition rate of just $105 per credit hour. This accessible pricing structure allows many students to graduate debt-free, further maximizing the long-term financial benefits and return on their educational investment.

GHC continues to expand its offerings to meet regional workforce demands. This fall semester saw the launch of its Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Communication, joining a growing portfolio of in-demand bachelor’s degrees. The Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC provides bachelor’s degrees in crucial fields like nursing and dental hygiene, often with tuition assistance and robust job placement resources. The college also offers a rapidly growing Bachelor of Science in Building Information Modeling Management, providing unique opportunities in engineering and design, alongside degrees in criminal justice, environmental and natural resources, health science, healthcare management, logistics and supply chain management, and organizational leadership.

The findings are part of a broader statewide economic impact study prepared by the prestigious Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. This larger study consistently demonstrates that higher education credentials substantially increase lifetime earnings for Georgia residents across the board.

For GHC students, these results strongly affirm the college’s mission of providing high-quality, affordable education. With the added advantage of many students graduating debt-free, the long-term financial impact of a GHC degree is even more profound and immediate.

For more information on Georgia Highlands College and its diverse academic programs, and to explore enrollment opportunities, visit highlands.edu.

About Georgia Highlands College: Georgia Highlands College is a multi-campus institution of the University System of Georgia that serves students in Northwest Georgia and beyond. The college has five locations: Rome, Cartersville, Marietta, Dallas, and Paulding, and also offers extensive online learning opportunities. GHC provides a quality, affordable education designed to help students achieve their academic and career goals.

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