This study examines all counties in the United States that have four-year colleges and universities and compared the civic, socio-economic, and health factors of college communities compared to those without four-year institutions The data analyzed, using single factor analysis of variance, provide evidence that counties -with colleges and universities have higher levels of civic engagement and social capital, higher median incomes, and lower mid-life mortalities than counties without four-year institutions The results have implications for municipalities and counties with baccalaureate institutions The results are particularly important from a policy perspective as institutions face financial challenges from the coronavirus pandemic
Colleges and Communities: A Preliminary Analysis of the Impact of Four-Year Colleges and Universities on Communities