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Cheapest Health and Physical Education/Fitness Colleges in Missouri

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

College of the Ozarks stands out as Missouri's most affordable Health and Physical Education/Fitness program at just $7,669 net cost, despite being a private institution. This creates an unusual changing where the cheapest option costs $10,000 less than most public universities in the state. Missouri's growing healthcare sector, anchored by major employers like BJC HealthCare and Cerner, creates solid demand for fitness professionals who understand wellness integration in medical settings. The state's 20 programs show dramatic cost variation, with private schools ranging from College of the Ozarks' bargain price to nearly $19,000 at other institutions. Earnings potential varies significantly too, from $21,508 at Evangel University to $36,141 at Avila University. Public universities like Missouri Southern State and Truman State offer middle-ground options under $12,100 net cost, while maintaining respectable graduation rates above 38%. The A+ Scholarship program helps Missouri residents access community college pathways before transferring to four-year programs, making the state particularly attractive for cost-conscious students entering the fitness field.
28
Programs
$7,669 – $27,075
Net Price Range
$29,732
Avg. Program Earnings
53.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

28 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $7,669 $21,290 61.3% 21.1%
2 $11,653 $8,400 38.3% 99.5%
3 $12,030 $9,470 68.4% 45.1%
4 $12,323 $13,440 56.9% 51.1%
5 $12,638 $9,800 39.8%
6 $12,860 $13,692 52.6% 63.2%
7 $14,532 $9,496 55.7% 86.3%
8 $15,336 $9,739 49.4% 71.3%
9 $15,529 $16,400 30.0%
10 $16,939 $38,672 42.6% 67.6%
11 $17,502 $9,024 57.3% 92.6%
12 $17,945 $23,000 24.5% 61.2%
13 $18,251 $28,976 56.8% 94.4%
14 $18,516 $21,100 50.3% 74.0%
15 $18,705 $27,192 64.8% 67.9%
16 $21,082 $28,320 51.2% 99.6%
17 $21,123 $26,880 44.3% 67.1%
18 $21,523 $35,235 66.0% 63.4%
19 $22,080 $29,915 50.2% 97.0%
20 $22,270 $28,860 57.0% 61.5%
21 $23,165 $43,420 75.6% 66.5%
22 $24,051 $24,326 45.7%
23 $25,477 $27,140 52.5% 97.9%
24 $25,807 $33,122 48.2% 70.9%
25 $26,047 $27,166 71.5% 87.8%
26 $26,111 $34,188 57.5% 75.3%
27 $26,196 $30,730 61.1% 55.1%
28 $27,075 $53,244 79.8% 84.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes College of the Ozarks so affordable for Health and Physical Education students?

College of the Ozarks operates on a unique work-study model where students work on campus to cover educational costs. At $7,669 net cost, it's nearly $4,000 cheaper than the next most affordable option, Missouri Southern State University. The school maintains a highly selective 21% acceptance rate, meaning students must meet strict academic standards to access these savings. This private institution essentially costs less than most public universities in Missouri.

How do Missouri's public universities compare for Health and Physical Education costs?

Missouri's public universities cluster between $11,653 and $17,502 in net costs for Health and Physical Education programs. Missouri Southern State leads public options at $11,653, followed closely by Truman State at $12,030. Most public programs cost students under $15,500 annually, making them significantly more affordable than private alternatives. Truman State offers the best value combination with reasonable cost and a strong 68% graduation rate.

What earning potential can graduates expect from Missouri fitness programs?

Graduate earnings range from $21,508 to $36,141 across Missouri's Health and Physical Education programs. Avila University graduates earn the highest at $36,141, while Evangel University graduates start at $21,508. Most programs produce graduates earning between $25,000 and $31,000 annually. The earnings variation often reflects geographic location and program focus, with Kansas City and St. Louis area schools typically showing higher graduate incomes.

Does Missouri's healthcare industry create opportunities for fitness graduates?

Missouri's healthcare sector, led by BJC HealthCare and other major medical systems, increasingly integrates fitness professionals into wellness programs and rehabilitation services. Cerner's health technology focus also creates opportunities for fitness professionals who understand data-driven wellness approaches. The state's aging population and emphasis on preventive care drive demand for qualified fitness professionals in clinical and community settings. Agriculture and defense sectors also employ fitness professionals for worker wellness programs.

Where should students look for the best graduation rates in Missouri fitness programs?

Truman State University leads with a 68% graduation rate at just $12,030 net cost, offering excellent value for completion likelihood. Evangel University achieves 65% graduation rate but costs significantly more at $18,705. College of the Ozarks maintains 61% graduation rate while being the most affordable option. Students should avoid programs with graduation rates below 40%, as these suggest completion challenges that could impact career prospects.

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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.