Health & Physical Education at Marshall University

Huntington, WV · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Health and Physical Education/Fitness
43 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
43
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,682/yr (-33% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (25% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (128,800 openings/yr)
ROI 18.8x earnings multiple (8.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #172 of 529 Health and Physical Education/Fitness programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

The earnings data for Marshall's Health and Physical Education/Fitness program reflects specific regional dynamics rather than a lack of program quality. Graduates often find meaningful careers within the local labor market, primarily in K-12 education, community recreation, or athletic training roles across West Virginia and surrounding areas. These public-sector or non-profit positions, while incredibly rewarding, are often compensated at rates below national averages due to regional economic factors and public funding structures. Employers like local school districts, community centers, and smaller athletic organizations are common landing spots. Your career here might involve teaching physical education, coaching youth sports, or managing local wellness programs. To maximize your earning potential, consider pursuing dual certification in a high-demand subject or exploring opportunities in corporate wellness or private fitness beyond the immediate region.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Health & Physical Education graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $674K $673K $613K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 18.8x 18.8x 17.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 8.3x 8.3x 7.6x
Probability of Field Employment 42% 42% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 43 42

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,768
Out-of-state: $81,176 (8.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$33,308
7% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,888
13.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$60,936
195% growth from Year 1

About Marshall University

A 96% acceptance rate means Marshall University is accessible to most applicants, with a mid-sized student body of 7,149 in Huntington, WV.

See all programs and financial aid at Marshall University →

Top Career Paths

Entertainment and recreation managers, except gambling $77,180/yr
Recreation and fitness studies teachers, postsecondary $75,890/yr
Athletes and sports competitors $62,360/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Health & Physical Education at Other Schools

Other Majors at Marshall University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Marshall University's Health & Physical Education program score?
This program scores 43/100 — on the lower end for Health & Physical Education. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Marshall University Health & Physical Education graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.1x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
Why are Health & Physical Education earnings lower at Marshall University?
Lower starting pay at Marshall University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →