ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a method for estimating and illustrating both the direct and the indirect return on investment (ROI) to the state through the increased educational attainment in the state's adult population. The state of Utah is used as a case study to illustrate the process. The chapter presents a way of illustrating that education should be considered an investment with measurable returns and not merely another expense category. The ROI calculations that are used in process do not address all assumptions or conditions that a true economist would need to feel comfortable with estimating the actual ROI or economic impact of additional degree attainment. The estimates for the direct ROI for a state is based on a calculated estimate of the amount of increased taxes that will be paid based on increased earnings when compared to the amount of state support provided for each degree level.
