University of Missouri System
Fueling Economic Growth and Educational Excellence Across Missouri
The Challenge
The University of Missouri System (UM System) is a cornerstone of education, outreach, and research for the state. Comprising four universities, two growing academic medical centers, and a statewide extension program, the UM System contributes substantially to Missouri ’s economy and communities. With more than 75,000 students enrolled, it educates nearly half of all undergraduates and over 60 percent of graduate students in Missouri’s public higher education system.
How We Helped
The UM System partnered with Tripp Umbach to measure the economic value generated by its operations and expenditures throughout Missouri in FY21. The impact analysis captured statewide effects as well as those of each of its four universities—Columbia, Kansas City, Rolla, and St. Louis—plus MU Extension, academic medicine, research, athletics, and alumni contributions.
Tripp Umbach found that the UM System generated more than $6.5 billion in annual economic impact for the state. This includes $2.5 billion in direct spending and $4 billion in indirect and induced impact from the system’s presence across Missouri.
For every dollar received from Missouri taxpayers, $15.49 is returned to the state’s economy through the UM System’s operations and programs. The system also supports more than 69,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly. With nearly 299,000 alumni living in Missouri, alumni spending alone contributes an estimated $52.5 billion to the state economy.
Through education, research, healthcare, and community engagement, the UM System remains a powerful driver of economic growth and opportunity across the Show Me State.