Analysis
University of Evansville's health and physical education graduates start modestly at $34,809, but four-year earnings jump to $55,141โa 58% increase that suggests career progression into coaching leadership roles or specialized training positions. Among Indiana's 27 programs, this ranks solidly in the middle, trailing Valparaiso and University of Indianapolis but ahead of most state competitors. The $24,031 median debt is also slightly below both state and national averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69.
The trajectory here matters more than the starting salary. While first-year earnings barely exceed the Indiana median, that mid-$50K mark by year four opens doors to stable middle-class earnings in a field known for job security and benefits. Graduates likely move from entry-level PE teaching positions into department head roles, athletic director positions, or corporate wellness management.
The major caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes vary more than at larger programs. Still, for families seeking an affordable path into education and athletics careers with strong upward mobility, this program delivers measurable returns without excessive debt burden.
Where University of Evansville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health and physical education/fitness bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Evansville graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Evansville | $34,809 | $55,141 | +58% |
| Purdue University-Main Campus | $26,687 | $53,337 | +100% |
| Indiana University-Bloomington | $35,873 | $53,142 | +48% |
| Trine University | $25,812 | $51,996 | +101% |
| Indiana University-Indianapolis | $34,575 | $50,577 | +46% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (27 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,676 | $34,809 | $55,141 | $24,031 | 0.69 | |
| $46,588 | $44,937 | $41,366 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $36,136 | $38,364 | $49,930 | $26,786 | 0.70 | |
| $35,640 | $36,742 | $44,938 | $26,581 | 0.72 | |
| $31,168 | $36,739 | โ | โ | โ | |
| $11,790 | $35,873 | $53,142 | $19,657 | 0.55 | |
| National Median | โ | $30,554 | โ | $25,757 | 0.84 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with health and physical education/fitness graduates
Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
Athletes and Sports Competitors
Athletic Trainers
Exercise Physiologists
Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors
Coaches and Scouts
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 Evansville, approximately 23% 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 23 graduates with reported earnings and 60 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.