Best Value Health and Physical Education/Fitness Colleges in South Dakota

South Dakota's nine Health and Physical Education programs show a stark divide between public and private costs, with net prices ranging from $17,001 at Black Hills State to $24,723 at Augustana University. The state's growing healthcare sector and outdoor recreation industry create steady demand for fitness professionals, though starting salaries vary widely from $22,192 to $39,009. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with four schools charging under $18,500 annually while maintaining reasonable graduation rates above 50 percent.

Programs

$17,001 – $24,723

Net Price Range

$32,493

Avg. Program Earnings

56.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	South Dakota State University Brookings, South Dakota	$18,219	$37,856	$9,299	59.6%	86.1%
2	Northern State University Aberdeen, South Dakota	$17,094	$35,060	$8,845	52.2%	78.1%
3	Dakota Wesleyan University Mitchell, South Dakota	$19,300	$33,993	$32,890	46.4%	74.8%
4	Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota	$17,001	$27,669	$9,000	38.6%	96.6%
5	Augustana University Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$24,723	$39,009	$39,190	75.6%	65.8%
6	University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, South Dakota	$20,874	$31,670	$20,740	60.5%	76.0%
7	Dakota State University Madison, South Dakota	$19,725	$22,192	$9,633	49.3%	78.9%
8	Mount Marty University Yankton, South Dakota	$23,295		$33,100	60.6%	68.4%
9	University of South Dakota Vermillion, South Dakota	$19,155		$9,432	61.4%	99.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap among Health and Physical Education graduates in South Dakota?

Graduate earnings range from $22,192 at Dakota State to $39,009 at Augustana University, reflecting different career paths and geographic opportunities. Higher-earning programs often lead to positions in healthcare settings or corporate wellness, while lower figures typically represent traditional teaching roles in rural districts.

How do public universities compare to private schools for program value?

Public institutions offer significantly better value, with four schools charging under $18,500 compared to private schools starting at $19,300. South Dakota State provides the best return on investment with a net price of $18,219 and strong earnings of $37,856 annually.

Where do most Health and Physical Education graduates find employment in South Dakota?

The state's healthcare systems, including Sanford Health and Avera, hire many wellness specialists and rehabilitation professionals. Public schools across South Dakota's 149 districts also provide steady teaching opportunities, though salaries reflect the state's rural demographics.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.