Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of Central Missouri

At $34,844 starting out and $41,056 by year four, University of Central Missouri's Health and Physical Education program outperforms 78% of similar programs nationally—a solid outcome for a degree that typically faces earnings challenges. The $26,000 debt load is roughly average, creating a manageable 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio that most graduates should handle on teacher or coach salaries.

Within Missouri, the picture is more nuanced. This program sits at the 60th percentile statewide, meaning several in-state alternatives deliver slightly better outcomes. Missouri Baptist leads at $37,165, and Missouri Western hits $36,557. Still, Central Missouri beats the state median of $33,892 and costs about the same as these competitors in terms of debt. The 18% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates find better-paying positions or advance reasonably quickly, which matters in education careers where early years can be lean.

For families weighing this program, the national comparison is encouraging—you're getting above-average results at an accessible institution. The moderate admission standards and 26% Pell population mean most students can get in without the pressure of highly selective environments. This isn't the absolute best value in Missouri for this degree, but it's a credible choice that delivers competitive earnings without excessive debt.