Study Reveals RCC Drives $306 Million Economic Impact & Fosters Job Growth
A recent economic impact study shows Rogue Community College (RCC) is an engine that generates $306.5 million annually for the Southern Oregon economy.
Using data from Fiscal Year 2021-22, independent labor market analytics firm Lightcast analyzed RCC's economic impact in Josephine and Jackson counties as well as the return on investment for students and taxpayers. The analysis found that RCC "creates a significant positive impact on the business community and generates a return on investment to its major stakeholder groups -- students, taxpayers and society."
The analysis showed RCC contributes about 2% of the region's gross regional product (GRP). The college's economic impact includes operations spending, construction spending, student spending and higher earnings for alumni who entered the regional workforce with new skills after studying at RCC.
In 2021-22, RCC employed 715 full-time and part-time faculty and staff. Payroll amounted to $33.9 million, much of which was spent within the region to purchase groceries, mortgage and rent payments, dining out and other household expenses.
In 2021-22, RCC served 5,863 credit students and 1,840 non-credit students at its campuses in Grants Pass, Medford and White City. The analysis estimates the total investment made by RCC students at $14.3 million, equal to $13.4 million in out-of-pocket expenses as well as $953,000 in wages students would have earned if they had been working instead of attending college.
In return for their investment, RCC students will receive higher future earnings that will continue to grow throughout their working lives. For every $1 students invest in their education at RCC, the study says they receive $6 in higher future earnings.
