Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Loras College

Loras College's Health and Physical Education program produces graduates who start modestly at $31,493 but see strong income growth to $47,324 by year four—a 50% jump that suggests many graduates move into coaching, administration, or specialized roles. The $27,000 debt load (5th percentile nationally, meaning among the lowest) keeps this program financially manageable despite the slow start.

Within Iowa, though, this program lags behind its competition. At the 40th percentile statewide, Loras graduates earn about $3,000 less their first year than the Iowa median for this field. Top programs at Buena Vista, Simpson, and Iowa State all produce graduates earning $36,000-$38,000 from day one—a meaningful gap when you're starting your career. However, that substantial year-four earnings figure suggests Loras grads catch up over time, potentially through career advancement or additional certifications.

The major caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual circumstances heavily influence these numbers. For families prioritizing low debt in a field known for modest pay, Loras delivers on affordability. But if your student can access one of Iowa's stronger programs—particularly the public option at Iowa State—the higher starting salary could justify any modest increase in costs. The strong earnings growth is encouraging, but it requires patience through those early years.