Health and Physical Education/Fitness at North Dakota State University-Main Campus

North Dakota State's Health and Physical Education program punches well above its weight nationally—graduates here earn $36,646 starting out, landing in the 91st percentile compared to similar programs across the country. That's roughly $6,000 more than the typical graduate in this field earns, a meaningful advantage in a profession where starting salaries often hover in the low $30,000s.

The trajectory looks solid too. Earnings climb 27% to $46,653 by year four, suggesting graduates find career traction whether they're working in education, fitness management, or related fields. The $23,250 debt load is reasonable—you'd owe about 64 cents for every dollar earned in that first year, which is manageable given the steady income growth. Within North Dakota, this program sits at the median, meaning it's competitive with in-state alternatives while offering the cost advantages of staying close to home.

One caveat: this is a moderately-sized cohort, so individual outcomes may vary more than at larger programs. But for families considering a health and fitness career path, NDSU delivers strong relative value—particularly when you factor in the university's 96% admission rate, making it accessible to most applicants. If your child is drawn to coaching, wellness programming, or physical education, this program offers a realistic path to steady employment without crushing debt.