Health and Physical Education/Fitness at University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands' health and physical education program produces outcomes that land squarely in the middle of the pack—both nationally and within Kentucky—though the small sample size here means individual circumstances could vary significantly. Starting salaries around $31,400 place graduates in the 60th percentile among Kentucky programs, which isn't remarkable but beats the state median slightly. The concerning part is how far this lags behind top Kentucky options: Northern Kentucky University graduates earn 36% more right out of the gate.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $22,630, graduates here borrow about $3,000 less than typical Kentucky students in this field, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72. That's meaningful for a profession where many graduates become teachers, coaches, or fitness professionals—careers that don't command high starting salaries but offer stability. The modest 7% earnings bump over four years suggests graduates find steady footing rather than dramatic income growth.

For families considering this program, the value proposition depends heavily on net price after aid. Nearly half the student body receives Pell grants, indicating the university serves many moderate-income families. If your actual cost approaches that $22,630 debt figure, you're looking at a reasonable investment for someone passionate about physical education. But if scholarships can make comparable programs like Northern Kentucky or Louisville accessible, those stronger earnings trajectories deserve serious consideration.