Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Drexel University

The 97% earnings jump between years one and four tells you everything about Drexel's Health and Physical Education program: that dismal $27,376 starting salary isn't the full story. By year four, graduates reach $53,919—well above Pennsylvania's median of $31,311 and nearly double the national benchmark. This suggests many graduates start in entry-level coaching or fitness roles before moving into better-paying positions like athletic directors, program coordinators, or specialized training roles.

The challenge is surviving that difficult first year. Starting $4,000 below the state median while carrying nearly identical debt ($27,672) means a tight budget initially. You're looking at roughly 40th percentile performance among Pennsylvania programs right after graduation—perfectly middle-of-the-road. However, Drexel's co-op program likely explains both the trajectory and the initial earnings dip, as students may graduate into roles they held during co-ops rather than immediately landing their ideal positions.

If your child can manage that first year financially—perhaps living at home or finding a second income stream—the investment appears sound. The debt load is actually quite reasonable for a private university (5th percentile nationally), and that four-year salary rivals some of Pennsylvania's top programs. Just recognize this path requires patience and probably some early-career hustle before the degree's value fully materializes.