Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Western Oregon University

Western Oregon's Health and Physical Education program shows unusually strong momentum for a field that typically offers modest initial pay. Graduates start at $32,249—already above both state and national medians—then see their earnings jump 26% to nearly $41,000 within four years. Among Oregon's eleven programs in this field, Western Oregon ranks right in the middle for starting salary, but that growth trajectory suggests graduates are finding opportunities beyond typical entry-level PE teaching positions.

The $24,500 debt load sits just below state and national averages, creating a manageable first-year ratio of 0.76. By year four, when earnings reach $40,753, the debt burden becomes considerably lighter. This matters for graduates who may need additional credentials or face the reality that many teaching positions don't open up immediately after graduation.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your child plans to stay in education long-term or use it as a springboard. The earnings growth here outpaces what you'd typically see in PE teaching alone, suggesting graduates are moving into coaching, administration, or fitness management roles. At an institution with a 99% acceptance rate serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students, Western Oregon delivers solid value—particularly for Oregon residents who can minimize their debt burden through in-state tuition.