Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Ohio University-Southern Campus

Ohio University-Southern's Health and Physical Education program delivers something rare: graduates who earn more than 80% of similar programs nationwide while starting from a modest first-year salary of $35,165. The real story unfolds over time—earnings jump 43% to $50,227 by year four, suggesting graduates successfully transition from entry-level positions (likely teaching or fitness roles) into better-paying opportunities or secure salary increases as they gain experience.

At $25,000 in debt, graduates face manageable payments relative to their earnings trajectory. Within Ohio, this program sits solidly in the middle of the pack for initial salary (60th percentile), trailing powerhouses like Miami University and Ohio State by about $5,000. However, that earnings gap may narrow considerably given the strong growth pattern here. The debt load is actually slightly lower than the state median of $27,000, creating a favorable starting position.

For families in southeastern Ohio, this represents practical value: reasonable debt, earnings that outpace most similar programs nationally, and strong upward momentum in the critical early career years. The combination of below-average debt and above-average long-term earning potential makes this a financially sound choice, particularly if your child is committed to teaching, coaching, or fitness careers where initial salaries are modest but stability and growth are achievable.