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Cheapest Health and Physical Education/Fitness Colleges in Virginia

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

Health and Physical Education graduates in Virginia face a striking earnings gap that ranges from $16,478 to $37,208 annually, reflecting the state's varied fitness industry market. University of Virginia's College at Wise delivers the most affordable pathway at just $11,180 net cost, while George Mason University graduates command the highest salaries at $37,208. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors creates unique opportunities for fitness professionals in government wellness programs and military training facilities. The state's 20 programs span from small liberal arts colleges to major research universities, with acceptance rates reaching as high as 96.85% at Emory & Henry. Public institutions dominate the affordability rankings, though private colleges like Randolph and Bridgewater offer competitive net prices through substantial financial aid. Virginia's growing health sector, anchored by employers like Inova Health, increasingly values fitness professionals who can address corporate wellness needs and community health initiatives.
21
Programs
$11,180 – $32,145
Net Price Range
$29,122
Avg. Program Earnings
56.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Health and Physical Education/Fitness Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
2 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
3 $14,170 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
4 $16,640 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
5 $18,287 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
6 $18,436 $29,010 51.5% 95.0%
7 $20,173 $41,350 49.4% 90.4%
8 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
9 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
10 $20,814 $15,200 61.6% 87.8%
11 $21,816 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
12 $22,085 $38,320 28.9% 84.3%
13 $22,198 $29,696 27.1% 63.0%
14 $22,529 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
15 $22,881 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
16 $23,262 $38,550 43.6% 76.0%
17 $23,615 $41,860 47.1% 99.5%
18 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
19 $29,552 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
20 $30,055 $36,028 70.5% 80.4%
21 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive earnings gap between Virginia fitness graduates?

Virginia fitness graduates see earnings ranging from $16,478 at Bluefield University to $37,208 at George Mason University, a difference of over $20,000 annually. Geographic location plays a major role, with Northern Virginia programs near federal agencies and defense contractors offering higher-paying opportunities. George Mason's proximity to the Washington DC metro area provides access to corporate wellness positions and government fitness contracts that command premium salaries. Rural programs often prepare graduates for community recreation roles that pay significantly less but serve important public health functions.

How do Virginia's public universities compare on affordability for fitness majors?

Public universities in Virginia offer net costs ranging from $11,180 at UVA Wise to $22,881 at the main UVA campus in Charlottesville. The $11,000+ difference reflects varying in-state tuition rates and financial aid availability across the state system. Norfolk State University provides strong value at $12,973 net cost, though its 32.7% graduation rate suggests academic challenges. James Madison University represents the sweet spot with a $21,816 net cost, 80.9% graduation rate, and strong $36,368 average earnings for graduates.

Is William & Mary worth the higher cost for fitness education?

William & Mary charges $22,529 net cost but delivers a 91% graduation rate, far above most competitors in the state. However, fitness graduates earn $28,598 annually, which trails schools like Longwood ($36,668) and James Madison ($36,368) that cost similar amounts. The academic prestige may not translate directly to fitness industry earnings, where practical experience and certifications often matter more than university rankings. Students should weigh the elite liberal arts education against more targeted fitness programs at specialized institutions.

Does Virginia's VTAG grant make private fitness programs affordable?

The Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant helps students at private colleges, contributing to competitive net prices at schools like Randolph College ($18,436) and Bridgewater College ($20,173). These private institutions often provide smaller class sizes and personalized attention that can benefit hands-on fitness education. However, Randolph graduates earn just $22,771 annually, suggesting the premium education may not yield proportional salary returns. Students should evaluate whether the enhanced academic experience justifies costs that approach public university levels.

Where do Virginia fitness graduates find the best job opportunities?

Northern Virginia offers the highest-paying positions due to proximity to federal agencies, defense contractors like Northrop Grumman, and healthcare systems like Inova Health that prioritize employee wellness programs. George Mason graduates earning $37,208 annually benefit from this regional advantage. Military installations throughout Virginia create steady demand for fitness professionals in base recreation centers and training facilities. Rural areas offer community recreation and school district positions that pay less but provide stable employment serving public health needs.

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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.