Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,586
63rd percentile
60th percentile in Connecticut
Median Debt
$23,125
10% below national median

Analysis

UConn-Stamford's Health and Physical Education program lands solidly in the middle of Connecticut's options—literally tied with three other UConn campuses at the state median of $32,586. That's about $2,000 above the national median for this field, which sounds modest until you consider half of students here receive Pell grants and are likely seeking stable employment rather than peak earnings. The debt load of $23,125 is actually lower than the national median, giving graduates a 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio that's manageable even on entry-level fitness or education salaries.

The challenge is that $32,586 doesn't leave much financial breathing room, regardless of how reasonable the debt is. This program sits at the 60th percentile among Connecticut schools—respectable but not exceptional. Central Connecticut State graduates earn about $3,000 more annually, which compounds significantly over a career. Still, for students who need the accessibility of an 80% admission rate and the flexibility of a regional campus, UConn-Stamford delivers predictable outcomes without burying graduates in debt.

If your child is passionate about coaching, fitness instruction, or physical education teaching, this program provides solid preparation at a fair price. Just understand they're entering a field where initial earnings are modest, and the UConn name doesn't appear to command a premium here compared to state school alternatives.

Where University of Connecticut-Stamford Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all health and physical education/fitness bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How University of Connecticut-Stamford graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut

Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (13 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Connecticut-StamfordStamford$17,472$32,586$23,1250.71
Central Connecticut State UniversityNew Britain$12,460$35,701$34,769$26,0000.73
Eastern Connecticut State UniversityWillimantic$13,292$34,132$42,899$25,5000.75
University of Connecticut-Hartford CampusHartford$17,452$32,586$23,1250.71
University of ConnecticutStorrs$20,366$32,586$23,1250.71
University of Connecticut-Waterbury CampusWaterbury$17,462$32,586$23,1250.71
National Median$30,554$25,7570.84

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with health and physical education/fitness graduates

Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling

Plan, direct, or coordinate entertainment and recreational activities and operations of a recreational facility, including cruise ships and parks.

$77,180/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Athletes and Sports Competitors

Compete in athletic events.

$62,360/yrJobs growth:No formal educational credential

Athletic Trainers

Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.

$60,250/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Exercise Physiologists

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

$58,160/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

$46,180/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Coaches and Scouts

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports for the primary purpose of competition. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes' technique to prepare them for competition. Those required to hold teaching certifications should be reported in the appropriate teaching category.

$45,920/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree
About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Connecticut-Stamford, approximately 50% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 31 graduates with reported earnings and 42 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.