Criminology at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University's criminology program combines remarkably low debt with solid career progression. With graduates entering the field at $36,891 and climbing to $52,887 by year four—a 43% increase—the program shows stronger mid-career momentum than many similar programs nationwide. Perhaps more impressive is the debt picture: at $29,000, graduates carry less than half the national median debt load of $25,000 compared to first-year earnings, ranking in the 5th percentile nationally for debt burden. That 0.79 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than what they'll earn in their first year, putting them in position to make real progress on loans quickly.

Within Michigan, this program outperforms the state median, landing in the 60th percentile despite modest first-year earnings. The strong earnings growth suggests graduates successfully move into better-paying positions as they gain experience—whether that's advancing within law enforcement agencies, transitioning to investigative roles, or moving into corrections administration. EMU's accessible admissions (81% acceptance rate, strong Pell Grant representation) mean this path is available to students who might not gain entry to more selective programs, yet the outcomes remain competitive.

For families weighing this option, the math works: manageable debt, earnings that accelerate meaningfully after graduation, and performance that beats most in-state alternatives. The first-year salary requires financial planning, but the trajectory justifies the investment.