Criminal Justice and Corrections at California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento State's Criminal Justice program delivers solid value with exceptionally low debt burden. While first-year earnings of $38,606 sit just above national and state medians, the real strength lies in the remarkable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36—meaning graduates owe just 36 cents for every dollar they'll earn in their first year. With median debt of only $13,745 compared to the national average of $26,130, this program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for keeping student debt low.

The earnings trajectory shows promising growth, jumping 45% from $38,606 to $56,016 between years one and four. Among California's 41 criminal justice programs, Sacramento State ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, putting it ahead of the state median of $36,092. While top-tier programs like National University ($64,143) offer higher starting salaries, they likely come with significantly higher debt loads and tuition costs.

For families prioritizing financial stability, this program offers a compelling proposition: graduates enter the workforce with manageable debt and see substantial income growth over time. The 94% admission rate and strong Pell Grant participation (49%) suggest accessibility for diverse students. This is an excellent choice for students seeking a criminal justice career without the financial stress that typically accompanies college degrees.