Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) generates a powerful economic impact of $563.2 million annually for the region, according to a new report by Lightcast, underscoring the college’s role as a major driver of workforce development, job creation and economic growth across Pasco and Hernando counties. While this new statewide assessment spotlights all 28 member colleges, supplemental reports for the individual institutions provide strong context for understanding how much PHSC contributes to our local communities.
In November 2025, the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) and the Helios Education Foundation released the Lightcast report, An Engine of Opportunity, showing that the Florida College System (FCS) generates nearly $56.7 billion in annual economic impact, and that college activities support one out of every 24 jobs statewide. The AFC-Helios report further illustrates how deeply the state colleges are intertwined with the everyday functioning of Florida’s economy. The study also shows that students receive an average 21.2% rate of return from their educational studies. For students, the investment in education pays off with a very strong return, not only through increased earnings but by opening doors to meaningful, stable careers.
In its individual report, PHSC’s own economic contributions reflect this broader statewide value. This impact includes PHSC’s operational spending, employee earnings, student expenditures and the long-term economic gains associated with PHSC alumni who remain in the area and contribute to a skilled, productive workforce. In addition to the financial economic impact in the region, PHSC also supports 6,505 jobs locally. From the student perspective, they will receive a cumulative present value of $285.5 million in increased earnings over their working lives, which represents $7.10 in higher future wage earnings for every dollar they invest in their education. Taxpayers also benefit from PHSC with an average internal rate of return of 2.6%
“PHSC is proud to be a driving force in our region’s economic vitality, and this new data underscores the transformative impact our college delivers every day,” said Eric Hall, Ed.D., PHSC president. “Our students, alumni, faculty and staff strengthen the local workforce, elevate families and contribute to a more prosperous future for Pasco and Hernando counties. As we expand programs that meet industry needs and create new pathways to opportunity, PHSC remains steadfast in its mission to fuel economic mobility, support community growth and ensure that our region continues to thrive.”
With over 90 career program options, ranging from bachelor's to certificates, and from apprenticeship programs to career development courses, PHSC offers a wide range of opportunities for students to explore the path that best suits their interests. Throughout Pasco and Hernando counties, PHSC has seven locations in Brooksville, Dade City, New Port Richey, Spring Hill and Wesley Chapel.
Data sources for this study include, but are not limited to, 2023-24 academic and financial reports from the college, industry and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and earnings and demographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau. To learn more about the Engine of Opportunity Report, please visit: myafc.org/impact/. To learn more about PHSC, please visit: phsc.edu/.