Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of North Texas

UNT graduates in this field start modestly at $35,039 but see remarkable momentum, jumping to $50,417 within four years—a 44% increase that significantly outpaces typical career trajectories in health and fitness education. While this program ranks in the 80th percentile nationally, placing it well above the $30,554 national median, it sits at the 60th percentile among Texas programs, trailing top performers like Rice ($51,110) and Lubbock Christian ($46,359). The $25,000 debt load is reasonable and below the state median of $23,658, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71.

The story here is about trajectory rather than starting salary. Year-one earnings trail what you'd see at Texas's elite programs, but the steep growth curve suggests UNT graduates are moving into coaching, athletic administration, or specialized fitness roles that reward experience. The robust sample size means these aren't outliers—this pattern is consistent across 100+ graduates.

For families prioritizing affordability and strong career progression over immediate high earnings, UNT offers solid value. Your child will likely need patience in those first years, but the four-year earnings suggest meaningful advancement opportunities that justify the modest initial investment. Just ensure they're prepared for a career path that builds gradually rather than starting strong.