Wednesday, August 27, 2025–10:50 a.m.
-News Release-
A recent economic impact study commissioned by the University System of Georgia (USG) reveals that those who earn a bachelor’s degree from Georgia Highlands College (GHC) are projected to earn $1.4 million more in lifetime earnings than those without, underscoring the long-term value of a GHC degree.
Associate degree earners are expected to earn around $462,575 more in lifetime earnings than those without.
According to the report, the 813 graduates in the GHC class of 2024 can expect significant returns on their educational investment.
In total, graduates will see an incremental boost of more than $524 million in earnings compared to peers without a college degree for a combined $1.92 billion in lifetime earnings across associate degree and bachelor’s degree earners.
“These numbers highlight the life-changing economic power of higher education,” GHC President Mike Hobbs said. said. “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 economic incentive of a degree from GHC is a tuition rate of $105 per credit hour, which allows many students to graduate debt-free.
This fall semester, the college launched its Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Communication, adding to a growing list of in-demand bachelor’s degrees for the region.
The Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences at GHC offers bachelor’s degrees in nursing and dental hygiene, with tuition assistance and job placement resources available.
In addition, the college’s growing Bachelor of Science in Building Information Modeling Management offers opportunities for those with an interest in engineering and design to work with both elements in their careers.
The college also offers a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, environmental and natural resources, health science, healthcare management, logistics and supply chain management as well as organizational leadership.
The findings are part of a statewide study prepared by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business.
The study demonstrates that, on average, higher education credentials substantially increase lifetime earnings for Georgia residents.
For GHC students, the results affirm the college’s mission of offering high-quality, affordable education.
With most students graduating debt-free, the long-term financial benefits of earning a GHC degree are even more impactful.
For more information on Georgia Highlands College and its programs, and to get started this October, visit highlands.edu
