Cheapest Health and Physical Education/Fitness Colleges in Arkansas

Arkansas State University stands out with a remarkably low $13,085 net cost for Health and Physical Education programs, making it nearly $11,000 cheaper than the most expensive option at Ecclesia College. This price advantage matters in Arkansas, where the fitness industry connects directly to major employers like Walmart, which operates employee wellness centers and has driven growth in corporate fitness programs statewide. The 15 Arkansas schools offering these programs show a clear divide between public and private costs, with public institutions averaging around $15,000 compared to private schools that can exceed $24,000. Graduates earn between $20,140 and $38,491 annually, with the University of Central Arkansas producing the highest-earning alumni at $38,491. The state's low cost of living amplifies the value of these affordable programs, particularly for students planning careers in school districts, recreation centers, or the growing corporate wellness sector.

Programs

$13,085 – $24,294

Net Price Range

$29,465

Avg. Program Earnings

51.2%

Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Arkansas State University Jonesboro, Arkansas	$13,085	$7,754	55.1%	69.5%
2	University of Arkansas at Monticello Monticello, Arkansas	$14,013	$8,868	43.3%
3	Philander Smith University Little Rock, Arkansas	$15,360	$13,014	32.3%
4	Williams Baptist University Walnut Ridge, Arkansas	$15,875	$20,330	35.9%	59.3%
5	Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Magnolia, Arkansas	$15,944	$9,820	46.5%	63.6%
6	Central Baptist College Conway, Arkansas	$16,664	$19,680	35.3%	63.9%
7	University of Central Arkansas Conway, Arkansas	$16,775	$10,118	53.3%	91.2%
8	Crowley's Ridge College Paragould, Arkansas	$17,236	$16,440	26.1%
9	University of Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas	$17,525	$9,748	70.0%	78.9%
10	Harding University Searcy, Arkansas	$20,579	$24,888	70.9%	45.1%
11	John Brown University Siloam Springs, Arkansas	$21,144	$30,832	66.8%	56.6%
12	Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, Arkansas	$22,355	$32,480	70.3%	72.3%
13	Lyon College Batesville, Arkansas	$22,670	$31,000	55.9%	59.8%
14	Hendrix College Conway, Arkansas	$23,409	$36,650	69.2%	60.3%
15	Ecclesia College Springdale, Arkansas	$24,294	$16,850	36.5%	55.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Arkansas State University so much cheaper than other options?

Arkansas State University offers the lowest net cost at $13,085, compared to an average of around $18,500 across all 15 schools. As a public institution, it benefits from state funding that keeps tuition low, with in-state students paying just $7,754 before aid. The school maintains a 55.10% graduation rate while keeping student debt at $20,500, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious students.

How do earnings compare across Arkansas Health and Physical Education programs?

Graduate earnings vary significantly, from $20,140 at Philander Smith University to $38,491 at the University of Central Arkansas. The University of Arkansas produces graduates earning $33,281, while Harding University graduates average $23,906 despite higher program costs. These differences often reflect regional job markets and the types of positions graduates pursue after completing their programs.

Is there a significant cost difference between public and private schools?

Public schools clearly offer better value, with the top three most affordable options all being public institutions costing under $16,000. Private schools like Hendrix College and Lyon College charge over $22,000, nearly double the cost of public alternatives. However, some private schools like Williams Baptist University and Central Baptist College maintain competitive net prices around $15,000-$16,000 through substantial financial aid.

What graduation rates can students expect from these programs?

Graduation rates range from 26.10% at Crowley's Ridge College to 70.90% at Harding University. The University of Arkansas achieves a strong 70.00% graduation rate while maintaining relatively low costs. Schools with rates above 60% include John Brown University at 66.80% and Ouachita Baptist University at 70.30%, though these come with higher price tags.

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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.