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An Economic Catalyst for Colorado
Metropolitan State University of Denver’s economic impact on the state of Colorado approaches $1 billion per year. As Colorado’s only modified, open access University, MSU Denver has served as a stepping stone towards the American dream for more than 108,000 alumni and remains one of the best public investments Colorado can make for its economy, people and future.
MSU Denver commissioned this economic contribution analysis to quantify its community impact, track progress since the 2019 report, and guide future planning. Conducted by the Parker Strategy Group, the assessment evaluated MSU Denver’s impact from 2020 to 2023.
Fueling Colorado's future with $953.8M annual impact
MSU Denver contributes to the local and statewide economies through its expenditures on operations, capital projects and wages. The direct, day-to-day expenditures of the University, combined with student and visitor spending, cause a ripple effect throughout the statewide economy.
In combined impact, MSU Denver contributes $953.8 million annually in economic impact to Colorado through its expenditures on operations, capital projects, wages and campus spending (FY19-23).
MSU Denver’s economic growth well outpaced inflation, growing 36% from 2019 – 2023, despite the challenges of the pandemic.
Directly employing 2,573 people, MSU Denver supports and sustains another 4,660 jobs in Colorado as a result of its operational, student and visitor spending. Another 82,837 MSU Denver alumni live and work in the state.
The University’s faculty, staff and students make an estimated $3.1 million in charitable donations and volunteer for nearly 280,000 hours, valued at $8.4 million.
How Impact is Calculated:
Methodology:
Conducted by Parker Strategy Group, this economic contribution analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the economic, employment and tax impact of MSU Denver across Colorado. Using IMPLAN modeling and its input-output analysis, the report:
- utilizes regional data, allowing economic contribution analysis specific to Colorado.
- uses a fixed-price model with point in time calculation. All figures are for Fiscal Year 23 or an aggregate of Fiscal 20-23, unless otherwise noted.
- calculates direct, indirect and induced effects, the sum of which is the economic impact.
Launching Colorado's Changemakers
Located in the heart of downtown Denver near the Rocky Mountains, Metropolitan State University of Denver is a modified open-access institution offering innovative, career-focused education. With 90+ majors and 10 graduate programs, we serve over 17,000 students of all ages and backgrounds.
- 80% of our 108,000+ alumni stay in Colorado, strengthening communities and economies.
- MSU Denver is a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution committed to fostering equity and social mobility.
- Through the Roadrunner Promise, 30% of our students receive full tuition and fee support.
Student-Centered Success:
As Colorado’s top transfer destination, with an average student age of 24.9, MSU Denver provides comprehensive support to meet students where they are.
Real-World Learning:
Since 1965, MSU Denver has connected students to experiential learning, internships, and industry co-ops, preparing them to thrive from Day One. Employers value our diverse student body—60% first-generation college students, 54% students of color, and 95% from Colorado.
Previous Economic Impact Reports
2019 Economic Impact Report
View or download MSU Denver's 2019 Economic Impact ReportMSU Denver makes a difference
Turn ambition into achievements with classroom-to-career connections, degrees in high-demand fields and excellent faculty.
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