The Utah System of Higher Education has announced a record number of students graduated from the state's public colleges and universities during the 2025 academic year. This increase in degree and certificate completions comes at a time when national surveys suggest a declining public confidence in the value of higher education.
Key Takeaways
- For the 2025 academic year, 61,265 graduates earned a total of 71,262 degrees and certificates in Utah.
- This represents a 22% increase in graduates and a 26% increase in awards since 2021.
- Popular fields of study, such as nursing, finance, and skilled trades like electrician, align with Utah's key workforce demands.
- The data from Utah contrasts with national polls indicating that fewer Americans believe a college degree is essential for a successful career.
A Surge in Higher Education Achievements
New data released by the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) reveals a significant milestone for the state. During the 2025 academic year, public institutions awarded a historic 71,262 certificates and degrees to 61,265 graduates. These figures show substantial growth over a short period, with a 26% rise in awards and a 22% increase in the number of graduates compared to 2021.
State education leaders emphasized that this growth is not just about numbers, but also about preparing graduates for the modern economy. The report highlighted that many of the degrees and certificates awarded are in fields with high demand across Utah.
"The true value of higher education is most clearly demonstrated when students graduate from their programs prepared to contribute to Utah’s economy and our communities," stated Geoffrey Landward, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education. "Our colleges and universities are fulfilling their missions by equipping students to graduate ready for rewarding careers, civic engagement and lifelong success."
The sentiment was echoed by the Utah Board of Higher Education. Amanda Covington, the board's chair, noted the dedication of the state's institutions in providing accessible and quality education that leads to tangible success for residents.
Degrees Aligned with Workforce Demands
A closer look at the data shows a strong connection between academic programs and the needs of Utah's job market. The degrees awarded span a wide range of fields, from technical certificates to advanced research doctorates.
For the 2025 academic year, Utah institutions awarded over 21,000 bachelor's degrees, 5,175 master's degrees, and 490 doctorate degrees. The distribution of these degrees points to specific areas of economic focus for the state.
Top Fields of Study
The most common fields for bachelor's degrees reflect both foundational and high-growth sectors:
- Registered Nursing
- Psychology
- Business Administration and Management
- Finance
- Computer Science
On the vocational side, certificates were concentrated in essential, high-demand trades that offer quick pathways to employment. These programs are critical for supplying skilled labor to Utah's economy.
The most frequently awarded certificates included:
- Nursing Assistant/Aide
- Truck and Bus Driving
- EMT Paramedic
- Electrician
- Phlebotomy
The Economic and Social Benefits of a Degree
The USHE report, along with parallel research from the University of Utah's Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, reinforces the link between higher education and improved life outcomes. Graduates in Utah experience significant financial advantages and greater career stability.
Higher Education and Earnings in Utah
Five years after graduation, Utahns with postsecondary credentials earn significantly more than those without. According to the report, median wages are:
- 10% higher for certificate holders.
- 19% higher for associate degree holders.
- 64% higher for bachelor’s degree holders.
These statistics provide a strong counter-argument to the idea that a college education is losing its value. For Utahns, it remains a clear path to economic mobility. The report also highlighted the vital role of the state's two public community colleges, Salt Lake Community College and Snow College, noting that more than half of their transfer students successfully earn bachelor's degrees at four-year institutions.
Utah's Educated Workforce Ranks Among Nation's Best
The recent graduation data aligns with broader trends identified by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Their research confirms that Utah has one of the most educated workforces in the United States, ranking third in the nation. Only Colorado and Massachusetts have a higher percentage of residents with postsecondary education.
Utah's Educational Attainment by the Numbers
According to the Gardner Institute, approximately 61% of Utahns have some form of postsecondary education, such as a degree or certificate. This is well above the national average of around 54%. Furthermore, about 25% of working-age adults in Utah hold a bachelor's degree, while 13% have earned a graduate or professional degree.
Natalie Gochnour, director of the institute, emphasized the importance of these trends for the state's future.
"My view is that there has never been a more important time for a well-trained and educated citizenry in the state of Utah," Gochnour stated earlier this year when discussing the research.
The institute's findings suggest that higher education delivers benefits beyond individual income, contributing to workforce development, job creation, and research innovation that fuel the state's economy. As Utahns continue to pursue higher education in record numbers, the state appears well-positioned for continued economic growth and stability.