Cheapest Health and Physical Education/Fitness Colleges in New Jersey

Public universities dominate the most affordable Health and Physical Education/Fitness programs in New Jersey, with Kean University leading at just $12,168 net cost compared to private options that can exceed $30,000 annually. The state's proximity to major pharmaceutical companies like Johnson & Johnson and Merck creates unique opportunities for fitness professionals in corporate wellness programs, while the extensive network of recreational facilities throughout the densely populated state drives demand for qualified fitness specialists. Saint Peter's University stands out among private schools with a net cost of only $12,973, making quality education accessible despite its Jersey City location. Graduation rates vary significantly across the 16 programs, from Kean's 43.40% to Rutgers-New Brunswick's impressive 85.00%, reflecting different student populations and institutional resources.

Programs

$12,168 – $41,315

Net Price Range

$31,166

Avg. Program Earnings

61.7%

Avg. Graduation Rate

16 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Kean University Union, New Jersey	$12,168	$13,426	43.4%	82.6%
2	Saint Peter's University Jersey City, New Jersey	$12,973	$41,054	63.1%	88.8%
3	Montclair State University Montclair, New Jersey	$14,159	$14,766	64.3%	91.3%
4	Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus Teaneck, New Jersey	$15,266	$35,822	61.7%	84.1%
5	William Paterson University of New Jersey Wayne, New Jersey	$17,764	$15,150	47.7%	91.5%
6	Saint Elizabeth University Morristown, New Jersey	$17,949	$35,942	40.2%	71.9%
7	Stockton University Galloway, New Jersey	$19,634	$15,532	72.0%	85.5%
8	Georgian Court University Lakewood, New Jersey	$20,218	$37,110	55.1%	75.8%
9	Caldwell University Caldwell, New Jersey	$21,188	$39,450	58.7%	66.4%
10	Rowan University Glassboro, New Jersey	$22,185	$15,700	68.3%	76.9%
11	Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick, New Jersey	$23,519	$17,239	85.0%	66.3%
12	Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus Madison, New Jersey	$24,415	$35,822	72.3%	89.1%
13	Rider University Lawrenceville, New Jersey	$25,287	$38,900	63.3%	84.1%
14	Seton Hall University South Orange, New Jersey	$28,921	$51,370	71.5%	75.1%
15	Monmouth University West Long Branch, New Jersey	$31,650	$44,850	70.3%	90.9%
16	Felician University Lodi, New Jersey	$41,315	$37,830	49.7%	89.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between public and private fitness programs in New Jersey?

Public universities like Kean ($12,168) and Montclair State ($14,159) benefit from state funding that keeps costs low for residents. Private institutions face higher operating expenses, with schools like Seton Hall reaching $28,921 net cost despite offering the highest graduate earnings at $36,455. The TAG grant program helps New Jersey residents bridge this gap at public schools. Some private schools like Saint Peter's buck this trend by offering substantial financial aid packages.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in New Jersey fitness programs?

Higher-cost programs generally show better graduation outcomes, with Rutgers-New Brunswick achieving 85% graduation at $23,519 net cost. However, affordable options like Stockton University prove this rule has exceptions, maintaining a 72% graduation rate at just $19,634. Kean University presents the biggest value question with its lowest cost but 43.40% graduation rate. Saint Peter's demonstrates that private schools can offer both affordability and solid outcomes with 63.10% graduation rates.

Where do Health and Physical Education graduates find the best earning potential in New Jersey?

Seton Hall graduates earn the highest starting salaries at $36,455, reflecting the school's connections to corporate wellness programs in New Jersey's pharmaceutical and finance sectors. Rutgers-New Brunswick graduates start at $27,280, the lowest among schools reporting earnings data. Georgian Court falls in the middle at $33,993, suggesting that location and institutional networks matter more than program cost. The state's dense population and proximity to New York City create additional opportunities beyond traditional school-based positions.

Is attending a more expensive program worth the additional cost for fitness majors?

The data suggests mixed results, with some expensive programs offering questionable value. Monmouth University costs $31,650 annually but doesn't report graduate earnings, making ROI unclear. Conversely, William Paterson at $17,764 produces graduates earning $32,071, demonstrating strong value. Georgian Court shows that mid-tier pricing at $20,218 can yield solid returns with $33,993 earnings and manageable $27,000 debt loads. Students should examine specific outcomes rather than assume higher costs guarantee better results.

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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.