Criminal Justice and Corrections at Dallas College

Dallas College graduates earning $37,202 in their first year out-earn most associate-level criminal justice programs in Texas, landing at the 60th percentile statewide—about $6,000 above the state median. The debt load of $11,457 comes in well below both state and national benchmarks, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31. For context, graduates owe roughly three months' salary, which is reasonable territory for an associate degree.

The earnings picture stays relatively flat, climbing just 5% to $38,906 by year four. This stability isn't surprising in criminal justice fields where entry-level corrections officers or police support roles don't typically see dramatic salary progression without additional certifications or promotions. What matters more here is the solid starting point—graduates are earning above-average wages for this field from day one.

At this price point and earnings level, Dallas College represents a practical entry into criminal justice careers. You're looking at debt that most graduates can pay down within a few years while earning competitive wages. While this won't be a high-growth career path without additional credentials, it offers immediate employment at wages that beat most Texas peers in the same program.