Health and Physical Education/Fitness at La Sierra University

La Sierra's health and fitness program carries a significant caveat: with fewer than 30 graduates in the data, these numbers might not represent typical outcomes. That said, the reported median earnings of $25,899 fall below both the national median ($30,554) and California's state median ($28,094) for this field. While the program sits at the 40th percentile among California schools—essentially middle-of-the-pack statewide—it ranks in just the 15th percentile nationally. The debt load of $25,632 is close to the national median but notably higher than California's typical $19,870, and it nearly equals first-year earnings (0.99 ratio).

For context, top California programs in this field produce graduates earning $35,000-$44,000 initially, suggesting substantial variation in outcomes. Health and physical education degrees often lead to teaching positions or fitness-related work where salaries start modest but can grow with experience and additional certifications. The university serves a largely working-class population (47% receive Pell grants), which may influence both debt levels and post-graduation career choices.

Given the small sample size, use this data as one signal among many rather than definitive proof. If your child is committed to this career path, investigate whether graduates secure teaching credentials or whether they're working in lower-paying fitness industry roles. The debt isn't catastrophic, but starting at less than $26,000 means early career budgeting will be tight.