Criminal Justice and Corrections at Cleary University

Based on comparable criminal justice programs in Michigan, Cleary University's bachelor's degree appears to produce typical outcomes for the field—estimated first-year earnings around $39,900 with roughly $27,000 in debt. This puts graduates at a manageable 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning borrowers would owe about eight months of their annual salary. Similar programs across Michigan cluster tightly around these same figures, suggesting this represents the baseline for bachelor's-level criminal justice careers in the state.

However, the top programs in Michigan tell a different story. Siena Heights graduates earn an estimated $67,000—nearly 70% more than what peer programs typically produce. Even mid-tier programs like Ferris State and Lake Superior State show earnings in the mid-$40,000s. This gap matters significantly when you're carrying five-figure debt, as higher earnings accelerate repayment and provide more financial flexibility in those critical early career years.

For a parent evaluating this investment, the key question is whether Cleary offers specific advantages—location, scheduling flexibility, or professional connections—that justify accepting middle-of-the-pack outcomes. The debt load itself isn't alarming, but when stronger-performing alternatives exist within Michigan, you'd want compelling reasons to choose a program that appears positioned at the state median rather than above it.