Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran's Health and Physical Education program starts slow but shows remarkable earnings momentum. First-year graduates earn $30,607—below Texas's median of $32,429 and landing at the 40th percentile statewide. However, by year four, earnings jump to $45,247, a 48% increase that puts graduates within striking distance of top-tier programs like Lubbock Christian and SMU. This trajectory suggests graduates either need time to secure better positions or complete additional certifications that unlock higher pay.

The debt burden is exceptionally manageable at $27,000, ranking in the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of comparable programs carry higher debt loads. Even with modest starting pay, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.88 means graduates could feasibly pay off loans within a year of full-time work. This is rare for teaching and fitness-adjacent fields, where debt often outpaces early-career earnings.

For families willing to weather a challenging first year or two post-graduation, this program offers solid long-term value. The combination of low debt and strong earnings growth creates a favorable financial picture, though parents should understand their child will likely need patience—and possibly further credentials—before reaching competitive salaries in Texas's education and fitness markets.