NAICS 6113

Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools

Colleges, universities, and professional schools (NAICS 6113): Overview of post-secondary education institutions, degree programs, market trends, and industry characteristics.

Published by VantaInsights Research·Methodology·Data Sources· AI-drafted
Built on data from Census Bureau CBP Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal Reserve FRED SEC EDGAR

Industry at a Glance

Sector-wide aggregates across all businesses classified under NAICS 6113 (2017 classification frame). For specific sub-industries within this sector, see the individual reports below.

Employment
1.9M
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Establishments
3,989
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Annual Payroll
$104.6B
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Avg Annual Wage
$56,181
Derived from US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017

Industry Overview

NAICS 6113 encompasses colleges, universities, and professional schools that provide post-secondary education leading to degrees and credentials. This industry group includes four-year universities, community colleges, technical institutes, and graduate professional schools offering programs in fields such as medicine, law, business, and engineering. These institutions form the backbone of higher education in the United States, serving millions of students annually while conducting significant research and contributing substantially to economic development through workforce preparation and the advancement of new knowledge and practices. The sector operates through a mix of public institutions funded by state appropriations, private nonprofit universities relying on endowments and donations, and for-profit educational entities, each serving distinct market segments and student populations.

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Industry Trends

01

Rising demand for online and hybrid learning models has accelerated following pandemic-era adoption, with institutions investing heavily in digital infrastructure and asynchronous course delivery to expand access and flexibility.

02

Growing emphasis on career outcomes and workforce alignment is driving curriculum changes, partnerships with employers, and stackable credentials that address employer skill gaps in high-demand fields.

03

Increasing financial pressures on public universities due to declining state appropriations have prompted tuition increases, budget restructuring, and diversified revenue streams through research grants and auxiliary enterprises.

04

Expansion of competency-based and alternative credentialing programs including certificates, micro-credentials, and bootcamps reflects employer preferences for demonstrated skills over traditional degree requirements.

05

Enhanced focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives alongside mental health and student support services reflects institutional recognition of evolving student needs and social expectations.

Available Reports

1 industry report available for purchase under Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools.

Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools
NAICS 611310
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Specialty Reports Available on Request

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Industries

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Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NAICS 6113? ▾
NAICS 6113 classifies colleges, universities, and professional schools that award academic degrees and provide post-secondary education. This includes four-year institutions granting bachelor's and advanced degrees, two-year community colleges, technical colleges, and specialized professional schools in fields like medicine, law, and dentistry. The classification encompasses public, private nonprofit, and for-profit educational institutions.
What is the difference between public and private universities in this sector? ▾
Public universities receive significant funding from state governments and charge lower tuition to residents, while private universities are independently governed, rely on tuition, endowments, and donations, and typically charge higher tuition rates. Both types award degrees and conduct research, but differ in governance structure, funding sources, and operational models. For-profit institutions operate as commercial enterprises with shareholders.
How do community colleges differ from four-year universities? ▾
Community colleges typically offer two-year associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs with flexible scheduling and lower costs, serving local populations and working adults. Four-year universities award bachelor's degrees and graduate credentials, offer broader academic disciplines, and typically conduct research. Many students begin at community colleges and transfer to universities to complete bachelor's degrees.
What revenue sources support higher education institutions? ▾
Public universities derive revenue from state appropriations, tuition and fees, research grants, and auxiliary services like housing and dining. Private nonprofit institutions rely on tuition, endowment income, donations, and grants. For-profit institutions generate revenue primarily through tuition and fees. All segments increasingly pursue grants, partnerships with industry, and technology licensing to diversify funding.
How is the higher education sector responding to enrollment challenges? ▾
Institutions are adapting through flexible delivery options, expanded online programs, competency-based education, and partnerships with employers. Many are enhancing recruitment of non-traditional students including adult learners and international students, while improving retention through student support services and career outcomes alignment to demonstrate institutional value.

Related Industries

Business Schools & Computer & Management Training 6114Technical & Trade Schools 6115Computer Systems Design & Related Services 5415

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