Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State's Health and Physical Education program reports first-year earnings of $36,393—well above both the Kansas median ($30,086) and the national benchmark ($30,554). Among Kansas programs, it trails only KU and Wichita State, which is impressive for a school with an 88% admission rate. The debt load of $24,900 is reasonable, translating to a 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests manageable monthly payments even on an entry-level fitness or teaching salary.

The major caveat here is sample size: fewer than 30 recent graduates reported data, which means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. Still, the pattern is encouraging—graduates appear to be finding solid employment quickly, possibly benefiting from Kansas's demand for physical education teachers and the school's established relationships with regional school districts. The earnings advantage over peer programs suggests either better job placement support or a curriculum that resonates with local employers.

For families looking at affordable in-state options, this program offers a practical path into fitness and PE careers without crushing debt. Just recognize that the small sample means you're making this decision with less certainty than you'd have at larger programs. If your student is committed to this field and wants to stay in Kansas, the combination of strong early earnings and modest debt makes this worth serious consideration.