Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of San Francisco

The first year out of University of San Francisco's Health and Physical Education program is rough—$26,496 puts graduates well below both California's state median ($28,094) and the national average ($30,554). That's barely above poverty-line wages in one of America's most expensive cities. But here's the twist: four years out, median earnings jump to $57,937, more than doubling and ultimately surpassing most peer programs in California. This dramatic growth suggests graduates are either moving into administrative roles, transitioning to higher-paying adjacent fields, or relocating to areas where their degrees command better compensation.

The $24,905 in debt is manageable relative to that year-four salary, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio that's actually favorable once graduates hit their stride. However, parents should understand that year one will likely require financial support—rent alone in San Francisco could consume the entire starting salary. The program ranks in the 40th percentile among California schools, meaning it's middle-of-the-pack regionally, though it trails schools like California Baptist and Saint Mary's significantly at the one-year mark.

For families who can subsidize those lean early years, the trajectory is promising. But if your student needs to be financially independent immediately after graduation, this program's delayed payoff presents real challenges, especially given San Francisco's cost of living.