Criminal Justice and Corrections at Caribbean University-Ponce

This program presents surprisingly positive numbers within Puerto Rico's context, despite landing in just the 5th percentile nationally. The median salary four years out ($25,723) sits comfortably in the middle of Puerto Rico's criminal justice programs—not far below the state median of $15,914 for first-year earnings, and showing substantial growth. With debt under $13,500, graduates carry significantly less burden than the national median of $26,130, and the 70% earnings jump from year one to year four suggests meaningful career progression in PR's public safety sector.

However, the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—makes these figures tentative at best. A few exceptionally successful or struggling graduates could dramatically skew the picture in either direction. The program serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (75%), which adds context to both the lower absolute earnings and the relatively manageable debt load. While the first-year salary of $15,127 reflects Puerto Rico's compressed wage structure rather than poor program outcomes, families need to understand that even with growth, four-year earnings remain far below mainland standards.

For families committed to staying in Puerto Rico and pursuing law enforcement or corrections careers, the debt burden here won't be crushing—but verify these numbers by talking to recent alumni directly, given the statistical uncertainty. If mainland employment is the goal, this program won't provide competitive preparation against stronger options.