Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of Pittsburgh-Bradford

At just under $25,000 annually, graduates from this program earn roughly $6,000 less than the typical Pennsylvania physical education graduate and rank in just the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of similar programs produce better earnings outcomes. Even among Pennsylvania's 52 health and physical education programs, Pitt-Bradford ranks in only the 25th percentile, with nearby alternatives like Slippery Rock and York College delivering earnings above $35,000. The debt load of $27,000 matches the state median but represents more than a full year's salary for these graduates.

The modest sample size (30-100 graduates) provides some data reliability, though earnings this low suggest many graduates may be working part-time positions, entry-level recreation roles, or jobs outside their field entirely. For context, the regional job market in Bradford—a small Pennsylvania town—may limit local opportunities, potentially pushing graduates toward substitute teaching or fitness center positions that don't require this credential.

Parents should recognize this represents one of the weakest financial outcomes for this major nationwide. While teaching certifications can eventually lead to better salaries, first-year earnings this low create significant financial pressure when combined with nearly $30,000 in debt. If your child is committed to physical education, exploring programs at Slippery Rock, York College, or even community college pathways to teaching certification would likely deliver substantially better returns on the same investment.