Analysis
University of Memphis delivers solid value in health and physical education, with graduates earning notably more than typical programs in both Tennessee and nationally. Starting at $32,305 and climbing to $42,763 by year four, earnings outpace the national median by about $2,000 initially and grow substantially faster than most competing programs.
The debt picture strengthens this program's appeal significantly. At $27,500, student debt sits in just the 5th percentile nationallyβmeaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with higher debt loads. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.85, well below problematic levels. Among Tennessee's health and physical education programs, Memphis ranks competitively, trailing only Tennessee Tech by a small margin while maintaining much more reasonable debt levels than many alternatives.
The 32% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates successfully transition into higher-paying positions, likely moving from entry-level teaching or fitness roles into administrative, coaching, or specialized positions. With Memphis's 93% admission rate and strong Pell Grant participation, this program offers accessible entry into a field with genuine upward mobility. For families seeking a practical path into education or fitness careers without crushing debt, this program represents a smart investment.
Where University of Memphis Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all health and physical education/fitness bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Memphis 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 Memphis | $32,305 | $42,763 | +32% |
| The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | $27,374 | $50,183 | +83% |
| The University of Tennessee-Martin | $30,587 | $42,714 | +40% |
| Middle Tennessee State University | $32,966 | $42,215 | +28% |
| The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | $29,772 | $41,800 | +40% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (31 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,344 | $32,305 | $42,763 | $27,500 | 0.85 | |
| $10,084 | $33,170 | $39,681 | $15,653 | 0.47 | |
| $9,506 | $32,966 | $42,215 | $23,500 | 0.71 | |
| $41,320 | $32,464 | $37,714 | $20,000 | 0.62 | |
| $8,675 | $31,846 | $36,870 | $25,000 | 0.79 | |
| $18,168 | $31,638 | β | $29,677 | 0.94 | |
| National Median | β | $30,554 | β | $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 Memphis, approximately 40% 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 379 graduates with reported earnings and 538 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.