Criminology at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University's criminology program posts solid numbers that beat most competitors nationally but land in the middle of the pack for Washington state. Graduates start at $40,228—above the national median of $37,476 and topping 72% of similar programs across the country. Within Washington's small pool of four criminology programs, this sits at the 60th percentile, essentially matching the state median. For context, it outearns Gonzaga's program by about $2,200 annually, which is meaningful given Gonzaga's higher price tag.

The debt picture is the real strength here. At $19,295, graduates owe roughly $6,000 less than the national median and keep debt below half their first-year income—a manageable threshold that gives new graduates breathing room. Earnings grow 22% over four years to nearly $49,000, showing steady career progression rather than a ceiling effect. With an open admission policy and more than a third of students on Pell grants, Eastern Washington serves a more economically diverse student body while delivering competitive outcomes.

For families weighing this program: you're looking at reasonable debt paired with earnings that hold their own against state competition and exceed most national peers. It won't generate dramatic salary growth, but graduates enter law enforcement or related fields with modest debt loads and clear upward trajectory. That's a practical trade for students committed to public safety careers.