Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Calvin University

The numbers tell two conflicting stories about Calvin University's health and physical education program. In the first year out, graduates earn just $26,309—below both the Michigan median ($28,045) and significantly trailing the state's top programs. That initial struggle places this program in the 17th percentile nationally, and even within Michigan, it ranks middle-of-the-pack at the 40th percentile.

However, something changes dramatically by year four. Earnings jump 81% to $47,546, vaulting graduates well above the state median and even surpassing programs at Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan that started stronger. This trajectory suggests Calvin's connections or curriculum translate better into career advancement than immediate job placement. The $24,833 debt load is reasonable—roughly one year's fourth-year salary and slightly below the state average—making that early-career squeeze more manageable if families can support students through those lean initial years.

The critical question is whether your family can weather that first year at $26,000. If your child will live at home or you can provide financial support during that period, the strong four-year outcomes justify the investment. But if they need to be financially independent immediately after graduation, the weak starting salary creates real hardship. This program rewards patience, but it demands resources upfront to reach that payoff.