Morgan State University has reinforced its role as one of Maryland’s most influential institutions, with a new independent study showing the university contributes $1.5 billion annually to the state’s economy. Conducted by Econsult Solutions, Inc. (ESI), the report highlights Morgan’s position as both an educational leader and a major economic driver, supporting 8,200 jobs across Maryland and generating nearly $71 million in annual state tax revenues.
The findings underscore Morgan’s growing financial footprint. Since its first impact study in 2018, the university’s economic contribution has climbed from $1 billion to $1.5 billion in 2024, a 51.5% increase. This trajectory is linked to more than $1.2 billion in capital investments over the past 15 years, including recent projects such as the $171 million Health and Human Services Center and the ongoing $337 million Science Complex, the largest academic facility in the university’s history.
President David K. Wilson said the results reflect Morgan’s mission as Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University. “Every dollar invested in us returns impressive dividends to the State of Maryland. Our impact is impactful, transformational and intentional,” Wilson said.
The university’s influence is most visible in Baltimore City, where it generates $891 million in annual economic activity and supports 4,880 jobs. In the broader Baltimore metro area, the figure rises to $1.4 billion, positioning Morgan as a critical anchor institution in the city’s growth and revitalization. Student and visitor spending adds another $161 million to the state’s economy, while alumni contribute roughly $700 million more annually in earnings thanks to their Morgan education.
Morgan also distinguishes itself in research and innovation. According to its FY24 innovation metrics report, the university produces more than ten times the national average in start-ups, patents, and licensing activity per $10 million in R&D expenditures. Willie E. May, vice president for Research and Economic Development, said these results prove the strength of Morgan’s innovation ecosystem. “Morgan is converting knowledge into real-world solutions that generate economic returns and social good for our communities,” he said.
The university’s growth has extended beyond economics, with enrollment surpassing 11,000 students, expanded faculty, new academic programs, and a campus footprint that continues to grow. As Maryland’s largest historically Black college or university and the third largest HBCU in the nation, Morgan is on track to reach the classification of a “very high research” institution.
“Our continued investment in people, programs, and place is a model for what a modern, urban-focused high research HBCU can and should be,” President Wilson said. “These investments in Morgan build not only buildings, but they transform lives and communities.”
