Median Earnings (1yr)
$26,785
20th percentile
40th percentile in Alabama
Median Debt
$26,000
1% above national median

Analysis

At first glance, University of Mobile's Health and Physical Education program appears affordable—$26,000 in debt against $26,785 in earnings creates a nearly 1:1 ratio. But that initial salary sits roughly $3,000 below the Alabama median and $4,000 below the national benchmark. More concerning, this places graduates in the 20th percentile nationally, meaning 80% of comparable programs produce higher-earning graduates. Even within Alabama, where this program ranks at the 40th percentile, nearby alternatives like Auburn Montgomery and Troy University deliver starting salaries around $36,000—nearly $10,000 more annually.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, but the pattern is worth noting. For aspiring PE teachers or fitness professionals, $26,785 translates to roughly $2,200 monthly before taxes—tight margins for someone carrying student loans. The state's top performers demonstrate that Alabama students can access considerably stronger outcomes in this field without leaving the region.

If your child is set on this program at Mobile, understand they're likely starting their career at a financial disadvantage compared to peers at other Alabama schools. The modest debt load helps, but earnings matter more over a 30-year career. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend here, programs like Auburn Montgomery or Troy offer substantially better financial positioning in the same field.

Where University of Mobile Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all health and physical education/fitness bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How University of Mobile graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama

Health and Physical Education/Fitness bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (17 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of MobileMobile$26,120$26,785$26,0000.97
Auburn University at MontgomeryMontgomery$9,436$36,579$48,465$26,5000.72
Troy UniversityTroy$9,792$36,256$39,776$27,0000.74
University of MontevalloMontevallo$13,710$30,250$37,860$25,0000.83
University of North AlabamaFlorence$11,990$29,714$23,2500.78
Huntingdon CollegeMontgomery$28,650$28,469$33,761$26,7980.94
National Median$30,554$25,7570.84

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with health and physical education/fitness graduates

Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling

Plan, direct, or coordinate entertainment and recreational activities and operations of a recreational facility, including cruise ships and parks.

$77,180/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Athletes and Sports Competitors

Compete in athletic events.

$62,360/yrJobs growth:No formal educational credential

Athletic Trainers

Evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.

$60,250/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Exercise Physiologists

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

$58,160/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

$46,180/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Coaches and Scouts

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports for the primary purpose of competition. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes' technique to prepare them for competition. Those required to hold teaching certifications should be reported in the appropriate teaching category.

$45,920/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree
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 Mobile, approximately 30% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.