Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University's health and physical education program shows a trajectory that defies the typical pattern for this field. While the starting salary of $31,538 is modest—slightly above the Illinois median of $30,051—graduates see their earnings jump 48% by year four, reaching $46,756. That kind of income growth is unusual for education-focused programs and suggests strong career progression, whether graduates are moving into administrative roles, specialized coaching positions, or related fields.

The $23,375 in median debt is actually lower than both state and national averages for this program, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74. Among Illinois programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while keeping debt below most competitors. Compare this to the top-performing programs in the state: Aurora and Benedictine start stronger at $37,000+, but Elmhurst's year-four earnings of $46,756 suggest their graduates may be catching up or even pulling ahead. The data doesn't tell us what drives this growth—it could be certifications, career changes, or advancement opportunities—but the pattern is clear.

For families concerned about return on investment, this program offers a relatively safe bet within the health and PE field. The debt is reasonable, the starting point is competitive, and the earnings trajectory provides room for financial stability. Just understand that patience is required—this isn't a quick path to high earnings, but rather a solid foundation for steady growth.