Criminal Justice and Corrections at Centenary University

Centenary's Criminal Justice program stands out in New Jersey with earnings that outpace most in-state competitors—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide while keeping debt notably lower than the state median ($20,500 versus $24,672). Within a year, graduates earn $37,259, climbing to nearly $50,000 by year four. That 34% earnings growth trajectory is particularly noteworthy in a field where salaries often plateau early.

The tradeoff comes in that first year: earnings start slightly below the national median but well above New Jersey's typical $34,611 for this program. However, by year four, graduates have largely caught up to higher-earning programs while carrying significantly less debt. The 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable—graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary—and this advantage compounds as earnings accelerate.

For families comparing options, Centenary delivers solid middle-of-the-pack outcomes in New Jersey at a lower cost than most alternatives. The program won't match top earners like Strayer's graduates, but it positions students for steady career growth without the debt burden that typically accompanies this degree. If your child is committed to criminal justice and wants to stay in New Jersey, this represents a practical path that balances immediate employment with room for advancement.