Criminal Justice and Corrections at Brookline College-Albuquerque

Brookline College-Albuquerque's criminal justice program costs its graduates $20,000 in debt—nearly triple the state median—yet delivers earnings that barely exceed what most New Mexico programs achieve with far less borrowing. At $31,295 in the first year, graduates earn about $3,600 more than the typical New Mexico program, placing them at the 60th percentile statewide. But when you factor in that debt burden, the value proposition weakens considerably. Central New Mexico Community College graduates earn $4,500 more annually while their students presumably borrow far less given the state's median debt of just $7,425.

The 5% earnings growth over four years is modest, and with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers could shift significantly with a different cohort. The program does serve a predominantly working-class student body (52% receive Pell grants), and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.64 is manageable compared to some programs. However, community college alternatives in New Mexico offer a clearer path to similar careers without the debt premium.

For families considering this program, the question is whether the $12,500+ additional borrowing justifies slightly higher starting earnings that competitors can match. Given the alternatives, most students would be better served exploring lower-cost options first.