Health and Physical Education/Fitness at SUNY at Fredonia

SUNY Fredonia's Health and Physical Education program shows surprisingly strong momentum after a modest start. First-year graduates earn $31,013—about 13% above New York's median for these programs—and see robust earnings growth to $43,048 by year four. Among New York's 39 schools offering this degree, Fredonia ranks in the 60th percentile, outperforming the state median by over $3,600 initially and pulling ahead of programs at CUNY Lehman and Farmingdale State by year four.

The $26,000 debt load is essentially average for this field, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.84 that improves significantly as graduates gain experience. That 39% earnings jump suggests many graduates move into better-paying positions—perhaps transitioning from entry-level coaching or fitness instruction into physical education teaching roles with benefits and higher salaries. This trajectory makes sense given the program's focus and New York's competitive teacher compensation.

For families willing to accept lower starting salaries in exchange for career stability and growth potential, this represents a reasonable investment. The key is understanding that year one may involve substitute teaching, part-time coaching, or fitness center work before graduates secure full-time positions. If your child is committed to education or fitness careers rather than chasing immediate earnings, Fredonia delivers solid preparation at a price point that won't create crushing debt.