Median Earnings (1yr)
$25,621
13th percentile
25th percentile in Texas
Median Debt
$27,000
5% above national median

Analysis

Jarvis Christian's Health and Physical Education program leaves graduates earning just $25,621 in their first year—significantly below both the Texas median ($32,429) and the national average ($30,554). Among Texas programs in this field, it ranks in just the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of comparable programs deliver better outcomes. The gap is stark: even mid-tier Texas programs like West Texas A&M produce graduates earning $40,313, while top performers exceed $45,000.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $27,000, graduates carry slightly more than the Texas median but less than many peer programs, and the 1.05 debt-to-earnings ratio means the burden is theoretically manageable. However, that ratio only works if earnings grow substantially over time—and starting at $25,621 makes building financial stability challenging in those crucial early years.

For a family considering this program, the numbers suggest caution. This isn't simply about comparing colleges—graduates from other Texas schools in the same field are consistently earning 50-75% more right out of the gate. If your child is committed to health and physical education, exploring programs at universities like West Texas A&M or University of the Incarnate Word would likely provide stronger financial footing. The modest debt load is a plus, but it doesn't offset the concerning earnings gap.

Where Jarvis Christian University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all health and physical education/fitness bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Jarvis Christian University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Texas

Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (63 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Jarvis Christian UniversityHawkins$11,720$25,621—$27,0001.05
Rice UniversityHouston$58,128$51,110$62,105$10,0000.20
Lubbock Christian UniversityLubbock$27,298$46,359$29,246$27,0000.58
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas$64,460$45,519$70,754$20,4750.45
University of the Incarnate WordSan Antonio$35,660$40,453$42,514$30,7180.76
West Texas A & M UniversityCanyon$9,101$40,313$49,191$22,5000.56
National Median—$30,554—$25,7570.84

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with health and physical education/fitness graduates

Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling

Plan, direct, or coordinate entertainment and recreational activities and operations of a recreational facility, including cruise ships and parks.

$77,180/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Athletes and Sports Competitors

Compete in athletic events.

$62,360/yrJobs growth:No formal educational credential

Athletic Trainers

Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.

$60,250/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Exercise Physiologists

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

$58,160/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

$46,180/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Coaches and Scouts

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports for the primary purpose of competition. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes' technique to prepare them for competition. Those required to hold teaching certifications should be reported in the appropriate teaching category.

$45,920/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree
About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Jarvis Christian University, approximately 52% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.