Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Moorhead's health and physical education program significantly outpaces national expectations while keeping debt manageable. Graduates earn $38,088 in their first year—25% above the national median for this field and nearly $8,000 more than what Minnesota students typically see. That 95th percentile national ranking is particularly striking for a program at a regional state university with a 53% admission rate.

The $22,500 in typical debt sits below both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 that most graduates can handle on a teacher's or fitness professional's salary. While this program ranks at the 60th percentile within Minnesota—trailing Winona State and a few private colleges—it still delivers above-average outcomes at considerably lower cost than competitors. The modest 5% earnings growth to year four reflects the reality of education and recreation careers, where compensation tends to plateau early rather than climb dramatically.

For families considering this path, Moorhead represents strong preparation without the premium price tag of private alternatives. The combination of above-average starting salaries and below-average debt makes this program work financially in ways many physical education degrees don't. Just understand that $40,000 four years out is likely close to the ceiling for many careers in this field.