Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of Louisville

University of Louisville graduates in this program start modestly at $33,241 but see impressive momentum, jumping 31% to $43,403 by year four—a trajectory that outpaces most peer programs where earnings often plateau early. While the starting salary sits slightly above both Kentucky's median ($31,048) and the national average ($30,554), that four-year figure tells a different story about career development in this field. Among Kentucky's 18 programs, Louisville ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, trailing Northern Kentucky's $42,725 considerably but showing stronger growth potential than schools like Bellarmine or Morehead State.

The debt picture requires attention: at $22,053, it's lower than both state and national medians, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 reflects that modest starting salary. Graduates will need discipline with repayment during those early years when earnings are still building. However, the robust sample size (100+ graduates) gives confidence these numbers reflect actual career paths rather than statistical noise.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your child can manage relatively tight finances during years 1-3 while those earnings ramp up. If they're committed to the field and can live frugally early on, the strong growth trajectory suggests this investment pays off by year four—but it's not a quick-return proposition.