Criminal Justice and Corrections at California State University-Fullerton
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Cal State Fullerton's Criminal Justice program offers an exceptionally affordable path into the field, with graduates carrying just $11,000 in debt—less than half the national average and well below California's typical $15,000. This puts it in the 95th percentile for low debt nationwide, making it one of the most budget-friendly options available.
The earnings picture tells a story of steady career progression rather than immediate payoff. While first-year earnings of $34,570 trail both national and state medians, graduates see robust 42% income growth by year four, reaching $49,198. This puts the program in the 40th percentile among California criminal justice programs—middle of the pack for the state but lagging the national field overall.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 is excellent, meaning graduates can reasonably expect to manage their debt burden even on starting salaries. For families prioritizing affordability and long-term career stability over immediate high earnings, this program delivers solid value. The combination of minimal debt and strong income growth creates a financially sustainable foundation for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields.
Where California State University-Fullerton Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How California State University-Fullerton graduates compare to all programs nationally
California State University-Fullerton graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 27th percentile of all criminal justice and corrections bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Criminal Justice and Corrections bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (41 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California State University-Fullerton | $34,570 | $49,198 | $11,000 | 0.32 |
| National University | $64,143 | $55,598 | $28,014 | 0.44 |
| University of Phoenix-California | $47,987 | $44,185 | $46,989 | 0.98 |
| Ashford University | $47,869 | $46,544 | $37,625 | 0.79 |
| California State University-East Bay | $45,387 | $57,898 | $15,500 | 0.34 |
| Point Loma Nazarene University | $45,022 | — | $14,000 | 0.31 |
| National Median | $37,856 | — | $26,130 | 0.69 |
Other Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| National University San Diego | $13,320 | $64,143 | $28,014 |
| University of Phoenix-California Ontario | — | $47,987 | $46,989 |
| Ashford University San Diego | $13,160 | $47,869 | $37,625 |
| California State University-East Bay Hayward | $7,055 | $45,387 | $15,500 |
| Point Loma Nazarene University San Diego | $43,550 | $45,022 | $14,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At California State University-Fullerton, approximately 47% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 399 graduates with reported earnings and 244 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.