Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of Connecticut-Avery Point

UConn-Avery Point's Health and Physical Education program sits right at the Connecticut median, matching three other UConn campuses at $32,586 first-year earnings—about $2,000 above the national average but nearly $3,000 behind Central Connecticut State. That's not necessarily bad for a program with debt 10% below the state median, giving graduates a more manageable 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio. The real concern here is the starting salary itself: $32,586 means graduates are earning less than many professions requiring no degree at all, and physical education salaries don't typically see dramatic increases over time.

The program performs solidly within its field—60th percentile statewide and 63rd nationally—but parents should understand they're paying for a degree that leads to a relatively modest career path. The lower debt load helps, especially compared to programs that saddle graduates with $35,000+ in loans for similar earnings. For students genuinely passionate about coaching, teaching PE, or fitness instruction, this represents a reasonable path forward.

If your child is set on this field, UConn-Avery Point offers a cost-conscious option with the university's brand recognition. But if they're still exploring, encourage them to shadow professionals in PE and coaching roles first. Many discover too late that the lifestyle appeals more than the paycheck supports, and $23,000 in debt doesn't leave much room for second-guessing.