Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Jarvis Christian University
Bachelor's Degree
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
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Jarvis Christian University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Jarvis Christian University graduates earn $26k, placing them in the 13th percentile of all health and physical education/fitness bachelors 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)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jarvis Christian University | $25,621 | — | $27,000 | 1.05 |
| Rice University | $51,110 | $62,105 | $10,000 | 0.20 |
| Lubbock Christian University | $46,359 | $29,246 | $27,000 | 0.58 |
| Southern Methodist University | $45,519 | $70,754 | $20,475 | 0.45 |
| University of the Incarnate Word | $40,453 | $42,514 | $30,718 | 0.76 |
| West Texas A & M University | $40,313 | $49,191 | $22,500 | 0.56 |
| National Median | $30,554 | — | $25,757 | 0.84 |
Other Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs in Texas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Texas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice University Houston | $58,128 | $51,110 | $10,000 |
| Lubbock Christian University Lubbock | $27,298 | $46,359 | $27,000 |
| Southern Methodist University Dallas | $64,460 | $45,519 | $20,475 |
| University of the Incarnate Word San Antonio | $35,660 | $40,453 | $30,718 |
| West Texas A & M University Canyon | $9,101 | $40,313 | $22,500 |
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.