Higher Education in Utah

Many long-term Utah transplants were originally lured here by the excellent options for higher education. The unique blend of quality education, affordability, and unparalleled access to the great outdoors make Utah an enticing choice. With a total of 16 degree-granting institutions and technical colleges, Utah had more than 200,000 college students enrolled during the 2023-2024 academic year. According to the Department of Workforce Services, “Utah ranked as the state with the highest degree value. This measure compares the cost of tuition and the earnings potential from a degree.”

And once students get hooked on the Utah lifestyle, it’s hard for them to leave.

While the experience of attending college in the Beehive State can be life-altering for students, the benefits universities provide extend well-beyond their student bodies. Impacts on the communities in which they exist include fueling economic growth, cultural enrichment, and social development. From scientific research to sporting events and fine arts, institutions of higher learning add immense value to the greater world.

Here is a quick overview of each of the higher education institutions throughout Utah. Each school offers unique specialties and has loyal alumni who believe their school is the best. As with all important decisions, choosing the right school is personal and requires careful consideration.

There are eight schools in the state’s system of higher education. All of these schools offer degrees, ranging from associates to doctorates, and require students to meet certain general education requirements. The Utah System of Higher Education has worked to ensure that students are able to easily transfer credits between various institutions within the state.

State Schools

Technical colleges provide job-specific skills and certifications with hands-on training. These are ideal for people interested in careers in a trade, such as construction, cosmetology, or manufacturing. Their classes are often scheduled to accommodate working students.

Technical and Trade Schools

In addition to the state-run schools, Utah is also home to a few wonderful private non-profit universities. These schools receive most of their funding from tuition and private sources, rather than government funding.

Private Non-Profit Schools

• Brigham Young University
• Ensign College
• Westminster University
• Western Governors University

Financial Considerations and Assistance:

A college education is a big expense. Thankfully, Utah has some of the most affordable schools in the country. There are also many programs in place to support students with the financial burden of tuition. Here are a few we think everyone should know about:

1. The Utah System of Higher Education
   The Utah System of Higher Education’s website has a robust list of scholarship opportunities for students attending Utah schools.
2. The Western Undergraduate Exchange
   First-year, first-time students who are a permanent resident of a WUE State or WUE U.S. Territory (Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oregon, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, South Dakota, Washington, or Wyoming) are eligible for the WUE Tuition Discount. This merit-based award reduces the amount of standard tuition for eligible non-resident students. With the WUE Tuition Discount, the recipient pays no more than 150% of the standard resident tuition rate.

Additional Financial Resources

• Utah Scholarships and Aid Programs
• Federal Student Aid
• Educational Savings Plan

Utah State University

“If you have dreams of what you want to be, USU gives you ways to make those dreams come alive. Whether you want to make something tangible, like art or a business, or make a difference, like protecting our natural resources, USU has opportunities like none other. Through the years I’ve researched lizards, genetics, and chocolate in the morning then spent my evenings exploring the mountains in my backyard. What could be better??”

— Audrey L.

Westminster

“I had a wonderful experience attending Westminster. Not only did I meet my wife, but I had the opportunity to play collegiate basketball there for 2 years. I love how the campus is small with less students, making it easier to meet new people and make friends, while also having smaller class sizes making it easier to learn and get to know your professor.”

— Ryan B.

“I really enjoyed my time at Westminster. I feel I received a valuable education due to small class sizes and professors getting to know you. I met lots of wonderful people who made it fun along the way.”

— Becklyn B.

University of Utah

“I chose to attend the University of Utah because of the opportunities I knew it would provide me with. Having grown up in Salt Lake, I loved the idea of creating an entirely new chapter while still being close to family and familiarity. The U has given me the space to create the most special relationships and experiences, and I feel grateful to have received such incredible guidance and encouragement along the way. I’m very grateful to be at the U!”

— Nicolette M.

Salt Lake Community College

“SLCC is an exceptional school. It’s a perfect place to begin any journey to achieve your dream. SLCC has an amazing culture and it is so inclusive not matter the background.”

— Armand C.