Health & Physical Education at Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Health and Physical Education/Fitness
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
27
Optimistic
26
Base Case
25
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,192/yr (-32% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (25% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (128,800 openings/yr)
ROI 3.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #485 of 529 Health and Physical Education/Fitness programs

Program Analysis

While Wake Forest offers a respected academic experience, the earnings data for this Health and Physical Education/Fitness major suggests a different career trajectory than some of the university's other programs. Many graduates find rewarding careers in K-12 public education, community recreation, or entry-level fitness roles. These paths, while impactful, often have more standardized pay scales, particularly in public service, which can be lower than specialized fields in private industry. Your education here provides a strong foundation in human health and wellness, often leading to roles at local school districts, YMCAs, university recreation centers, or private gyms. The Wake Forest network is valuable, but in these service-oriented fields, the *field itself* often dictates compensation more than institutional prestige. Consider pairing this degree with specific certifications or pursuing an advanced degree early to specialize in areas like athletic training, physical therapy, or sports management, which can open doors to higher-earning niches.

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 $786K $784K $705K
Earnings Multiple 3.0x 3.0x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 42% 42% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 27 26 25

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$259,032
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$114,984
56% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,777
12.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$71,728
238% growth from Year 1

About Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University accepts 22% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, enrolling 5,471 students in Winston-Salem, NC. After financial aid, the average student pays $114,984 over four years — 56% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Health & Physical Education at Wake Forest University?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Health & Physical Education programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Health & Physical Education degree from Wake Forest University?
At $22,777 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Wake Forest University a good choice for Health & Physical Education despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Wake Forest University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
What do students actually pay for Health & Physical Education at Wake Forest University?
The 56% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $259,032. At a net cost of $114,984, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →