Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Columbus State University

Columbus State's Health and Physical Education program starts slow but builds momentum—graduates earn $29,310 in their first year but see that jump 41% to over $41,000 by year four. That growth rate matters, especially considering the modest $30,500 debt load, which ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with more debt). Within Georgia, this program matches the state median for earnings but maintains better debt discipline than most competitors.

The first-year earnings lag behind Georgia's top programs—Emory and UGA graduates start $4,000-$8,000 ahead—but Columbus State's trajectory suggests a different career path, perhaps moving from entry-level positions into coaching, athletic training, or wellness coordination roles. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.04 is manageable, particularly for a field where starting salaries rarely reach $40,000. With 44% of students qualifying for Pell grants, Columbus State serves price-sensitive families who need accessible pathways into fitness and education careers.

For parents, the key question is whether your child can weather those lean early years. The payoff comes later, but the debt burden won't trap them. If they're committed to coaching or physical education—fields where four-year degrees open doors—this represents a relatively low-risk entry point with room to grow.