Criminal Justice and Corrections at Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg State's criminal justice program produces graduates who earn notably more than the national average—ranking in the 81st percentile nationally—while keeping debt manageable at $26,000. Starting at $43,418 and climbing to $52,693 by year four represents solid 21% growth, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60 means graduates can realistically manage repayment on a law enforcement or corrections salary.

The Massachusetts context adds an interesting wrinkle. At the 60th percentile statewide, this program sits comfortably in the middle of the pack among 27 Massachusetts options—trailing schools like Northeastern and Salem State but still outpacing the state median. For a school with a 90% admission rate, this represents solid execution: your child gets accessible entry to a program that delivers above-average outcomes without the premium price tag of more selective institutions.

The practical reality here is straightforward. Criminal justice careers typically offer stability rather than high salaries, and this program prepares graduates for exactly that trajectory. The earnings growth through year four suggests graduates are advancing in their careers, not hitting immediate ceiling. For families concerned about debt burden in a public service field, Fitchburg State strikes a reasonable balance between cost and career preparation.