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Montana State University-Northern delivers the state's most affordable Health and Physical Education program at just $14,164 net cost, though graduates face earning challenges with salaries reaching only $24,035 to $30,771 across the field. The $10,678 gap between Northern's costs and Carroll College's $24,842 price tag reflects Montana's two-tier system of public accessibility versus private outcomes. With Montana's outdoor recreation economy generating billions annually, fitness professionals find opportunities in everything from guest ranch operations to wilderness therapy programs that capitalize on the state's natural training grounds.
7
Programs
$14,164 – $24,842
Net Price Range
$28,526
Avg. Program Earnings
46.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,164 $6,269 42.3%
2 $15,044 $6,706 28.2%
3 $16,669 $6,430 49.5% 36.3%
4 $17,118 $8,152 45.4% 95.4%
5 $18,508 $33,252 46.7% 75.2%
6 $20,907 $29,018 46.7% 95.5%
7 $24,842 $40,352 66.3% 78.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost differences between Montana's cheapest and most expensive programs?

Public institutions like Montana State University-Northern charge $14,164 while private Carroll College reaches $24,842, creating a $10,678 spread. The public schools benefit from state funding that keeps costs low, though Carroll College's 66.30% graduation rate significantly outpaces most alternatives.

How do Montana's small class sizes affect Health and Physical Education training?

Montana's low population density creates smaller cohorts that allow for more hands-on coaching practice and individualized faculty mentorship. The University of Montana-Western maintains a 36.31% acceptance rate while still achieving a 49.50% graduation rate, suggesting selective admissions paired with personal attention.

Where do Health and Physical Education graduates typically find work in Montana?

Montana's $6 billion outdoor recreation economy creates opportunities beyond traditional school positions, including guest ranch fitness programs, ski resort instruction, and wilderness therapy roles. The state's 147 school districts also provide teaching opportunities, though rural placement often comes with additional coaching responsibilities.

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