Criminology at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus

Fairleigh Dickinson's criminology program in Madison starts graduates at a modest $37,619, but what matters here is the trajectory: earnings jump 26% to $47,200 by year four, outpacing the typical pattern for this field. Among New Jersey's three criminology programs, this one ranks at the 60th percentile—essentially tied with its sister campus but notably ahead of Stockton's $34,596. The $25,000 debt load sits right at both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 that improves considerably as graduates gain experience.

The real question is whether $37,619 is enough of a starting point, and the answer depends on your child's career goals. For students planning to enter law enforcement or corrections—where pay scales and benefits kick in after a few years—this growth pattern makes sense. The 95% admission rate suggests accessibility rather than selectivity, which matters less in criminal justice careers that prioritize certifications and civil service exams over institutional prestige.

This is a reasonable choice for students committed to criminal justice careers in New Jersey, particularly those who need an accessible entry point and can weather the modest starting salary. The debt burden won't be crushing, and the earnings growth suggests graduates find their footing relatively quickly in the field.