Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,305
61st percentile (60th in TN)
Median Debt
$27,500
7% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.85
Manageable
Sample Size
379
Adequate data

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 nationally—meaning 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

University of MemphisOther health and physical education/fitness programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Memphis graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Memphis graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 61th percentile of all health and physical education/fitness bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee

Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (31 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Memphis$32,305$42,763$27,5000.85
Tennessee Technological University$33,170$39,681$15,6530.47
Middle Tennessee State University$32,966$42,215$23,5000.71
Belmont University$32,464$37,714$20,0000.62
Austin Peay State University$31,846$36,870$25,0000.79
Bethel University$31,638—$29,6770.94
National Median$30,554—$25,7570.84

Other Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs in Tennessee

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville
$10,084$33,170$15,653
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro
$9,506$32,966$23,500
Belmont University
Nashville
$41,320$32,464$20,000
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville
$8,675$31,846$25,000
Bethel University
McKenzie
$18,168$31,638$29,677

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.