Criminal Justice and Corrections at CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

Borough of Manhattan Community College's criminal justice program starts its graduates at just $25,300—well below what most New York programs deliver and in the bottom 5% nationally. That's a difficult first year, particularly in an expensive city. However, graduates with major mobility see their earnings jump nearly 70% by year four to $42,680, ultimately surpassing both state and national medians. The low $6,500 debt load, among the best nationally, means graduates aren't financially hamstrung while they work their way up.

The challenge is surviving those early years. Compare this to SUNY Broome, where graduates start at $40,700—that's $15,000 more in year one. For students who can secure stable housing and cover living expenses during the initial climb, the program's trajectory becomes more viable. The 57% Pell grant population suggests many students face exactly this challenge of making ends meet in New York City on a $25,000 starting salary.

This program works best for students with family support or existing housing stability who can afford to take the long view. The debt is manageable, and the earnings growth is real—but that first year represents a genuine financial hurdle that families need to plan for carefully. Students without a safety net might find better immediate returns at community colleges upstate.