Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Plymouth State University

Plymouth State's Health and Physical Education program starts slow but builds impressive momentum. While graduates earn just $33,293 in their first year—barely above the state median—earnings jump to over $50,000 by year four, a 50% increase that suggests strong career progression. Among New Hampshire's eight programs in this field, Plymouth ranks squarely in the middle, trailing Southern New Hampshire's $39,000 but ahead of Keene State.

The real strength here is the debt picture. At $27,000, students borrow exactly the state median, but that debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.81 ranks in the 95th percentile nationally—meaning this is one of the most manageable debt loads you'll find in this field. By year four, when earnings hit $50,000, that initial debt burden looks quite reasonable. The challenge is surviving those early years when a $33,000 salary needs to cover loan payments.

This program works for students willing to play the long game. The earnings trajectory suggests graduates are advancing into coaching, athletic director, or health program management roles that pay better than entry-level teaching positions. If your child can handle modest starting pay—perhaps living at home initially or in a low-cost area—the four-year outlook is solid. Just don't expect immediate financial returns.