Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Warner University

Warner University's Health and Physical Education program shows promise, but that initial $28,512 salary will test any family's patience. While the debt load of $27,000 is slightly higher than the state median and nearly matches that first-year income, the real story emerges over time: by year four, graduates are earning $46,806—a 64% jump that outpaces most fitness education programs. This kind of earnings trajectory suggests graduates are moving into coaching, wellness coordination, or administrative roles rather than staying in entry-level positions.

The program sits below the middle of the pack both nationally (33rd percentile) and within Florida (40th percentile), trailing schools like UF and Saint Leo by $10,000+ in starting salaries. Given Warner's selectivity and that over half its students receive Pell grants, many graduates are likely first-generation college students who may lack the networks that lead to higher-paying initial positions. The strong earnings growth indicates they're catching up through job performance rather than starting with advantages.

Here's the practical reality: if your child can secure one of those higher-earning positions by year four—perhaps through internships at local schools or recreation departments—the investment pays off reasonably well. But with a small sample size, these numbers could shift significantly year to year. The program works for families who can weather two to three years of modest earnings while their graduate builds experience and credentials.