Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Tennessee State University

The numbers here tell a challenging story: graduates start at just $24,722—ranking in the bottom 5% nationally for this program—and take on $31,000 in debt. While earnings nearly double by year four to $36,722, that initial debt burden of 1.25 times first-year earnings creates a difficult financial runway during the crucial early career years when loan payments begin.

Within Tennessee, this program sits at the 40th percentile, meaning more than half of similar in-state options produce stronger first-year outcomes. The state's top performers—Tennessee Tech and Middle Tennessee State—launch graduates at $33,000, about 35% higher than Tennessee State. Even the state median of $28,069 exceeds Tennessee State's outcomes by several thousand dollars. For Tennessee families already facing significant debt loads, those alternatives deserve serious consideration.

The 49% earnings growth shows graduates can build viable careers over time, and Tennessee State's mission serving students from lower-income backgrounds (52% receive Pell grants) adds important context. However, the combination of below-market starting salaries and above-average debt means families should plan carefully for those first few years post-graduation. If your child is committed to this field and Tennessee State specifically, having a clear strategy for managing that initial debt burden—whether through summer work, living at home, or targeted loan repayment programs for education professionals—becomes essential rather than optional.