Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Colorado Mesa University

Colorado Mesa's Health and Physical Education program starts behind the pack but catches up fast. First-year earnings of $31,253 trail the state median by about $1,300, placing graduates in just the 40th percentile among Colorado programs. Within four years, though, earnings jump 34% to nearly $42,000—surpassing even Colorado State University-Fort Collins graduates and approaching Metro State's levels. This trajectory suggests the program prepares students for career advancement, even if entry positions pay modestly.

The $25,900 debt load sits just above the state median of $23,400, resulting in a manageable 0.83 debt-to-earnings ratio. This isn't the lightest debt burden in Colorado, but combined with strong earnings growth, graduates can realistically pay down loans while building their careers. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates confirms this pattern isn't a statistical fluke.

For families prioritizing long-term earning potential over immediate returns, this program delivers. The question is whether your child can navigate those leaner early years—likely spent coaching, teaching fitness classes, or working recreation jobs—before moving into better-paying positions. If they're committed to the field and patient about career progression, Colorado Mesa's program represents solid value, especially compared to pricier alternatives elsewhere in the state.