Criminal Justice and Corrections at Capella University

Capella's Criminal Justice program charges premium prices—graduates carry $36,500 in debt, about 30% more than the state median—while delivering decidedly middle-of-the-pack results for Minnesota. Though earnings of $47,606 rank in the 95th percentile nationally, that's misleading: Minnesota's criminal justice programs generally outperform the national average, and this program sits squarely in the middle of the state's options at the 40th percentile. Five other Minnesota schools deliver higher earnings, with some exceeding $50,000 annually.

The debt burden is where this becomes problematic. At 77% of first-year earnings, the debt-to-income ratio is manageable but hardly impressive given the cost premium. Minimal earnings growth—just 2% over four years—suggests graduates quickly hit their ceiling in this field. For an online program that should theoretically offer cost advantages, the $36,500 debt load raises questions about value, especially when Metropolitan State delivers similar outcomes at presumably lower in-state tuition.

If your child is considering criminal justice in Minnesota, look closely at the public universities first. Capella's online flexibility may justify its premium for working adults balancing careers and education, but traditional students would likely find better value elsewhere. The debt burden here isn't crushing, but it's higher than necessary for the career outcomes you're buying.