Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Fairmont State University

Fairmont State's health and physical education program starts modestly at $31,000 but shows something worth noting: earnings jump nearly 50% by year four, reaching $46,000. That's significantly better than the state median of $25,000, placing this program in the 60th percentile among West Virginia's 11 offerings. The $22,000 debt load is actually lower than both state and national medians, creating a manageable financial starting point even with that initial salary.

The catch? This data comes from a small graduate sample, so these numbers could shift with more data. Still, the trajectory suggests graduates are finding pathways into higher-paying roles—perhaps moving into administrative positions, corporate wellness, or specialized fitness training. The relatively low debt combined with strong earnings growth creates a workable financial picture, especially for students planning to stay in West Virginia where this program outperforms most competitors.

For families concerned about immediate post-graduation earnings, understand that health and PE careers often require building experience before salary growth kicks in. The four-year earnings here suggest that patience pays off, and the debt burden won't be overwhelming while graduates establish themselves.