Health and Physical Education/Fitness at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

This program illustrates why first-year earnings can mislead: while UT-Knoxville's Health and Physical Education graduates start earning just $27,374—below both the national and Tennessee medians—their incomes surge 83% by year four to reach $50,183. That dramatic growth trajectory outpaces every comparable program in the state and pushes eventual earnings well above what graduates from higher-ranked programs like Tennessee Tech or MTSU achieve. Among Tennessee's 31 health and physical education programs, this sits at the 40th percentile initially but the trajectory tells a different story about career potential.

The $21,500 debt burden is notably lower than both state and national norms, creating a manageable financial picture despite the slow start. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.79 looks reasonable given where graduates end up, not where they begin. The pattern suggests many graduates enter teaching or coaching positions with typical first-year educator salaries, then advance into administrative roles, specialized positions, or supplement income with additional responsibilities.

For families willing to weather a modest first year or two financially—perhaps with parental support or living at home—this program offers a pathway to solid middle-income earnings with below-average debt. The key is understanding you're investing in a career arc, not immediate post-graduation income.