Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Guilford College

Guilford's Health and Physical Education program starts graduates at just $28,802—below the national median but actually ahead of most NC programs—then delivers something more impressive: 35% earnings growth by year four. That $38,932 mid-career figure puts graduates within striking distance of programs at UNC Charlotte and NC State, despite Guilford's much smaller scale and resources.

The $27,000 debt load sits right at the national average but carries more weight given the modest starting salary. That 0.94 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe nearly a full year's starting income, which will make those first few years of loan payments feel tight. However, the strong upward trajectory matters here—by year four, that ratio improves considerably, and the program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide, meaning it outperforms 40% of North Carolina's health and physical education programs.

For families considering this path, the reality is straightforward: expect a financially constrained start as a PE teacher or fitness professional, but understand that earnings improve meaningfully with experience. The moderate sample size suggests some volatility in these numbers, but the growth pattern is notable. If your child is passionate about this field and comfortable with the starting salary constraints, Guilford delivers better-than-expected outcomes for North Carolina, just not the immediate financial security that higher-earning majors provide.