Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of Maryland Eastern Shore

University of Maryland Eastern Shore graduates see something rare in health and physical education programs: meaningful earnings growth that transforms an underwhelming start into a solid mid-career trajectory. While first-year earnings of $30,407 lag behind most Maryland competitors, four years out these graduates reach $40,738—a 34% jump that outpaces typical career progression in this field.

The debt picture looks manageable at $27,000, roughly matching state and national norms for this program. That 0.89 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than their first year's salary, creating a realistic path to repayment. However, context matters here: Maryland has stronger-performing programs at McDaniel College ($38,122 starting) and Bowie State ($36,381), putting UMES in the 40th percentile statewide. The university's 90% admission rate and majority Pell Grant enrollment suggest it serves students who may have fewer alternatives, which makes the eventual earnings growth more significant.

For families evaluating this program, the key question is whether you're willing to accept lower starting pay in exchange for above-average growth. If your child can manage financially during those first few years—perhaps living at home or working a second job—the trajectory improves substantially. But if immediate post-graduation earnings are critical for loan repayment or living expenses, Maryland offers better starting points elsewhere in the state.