Criminal Justice and Corrections at Holyoke Community College

Holyoke Community College's Criminal Justice associate's graduates earn notably more than the typical program nationally while carrying far less debt—just $5,658 versus a national median of $14,230. That 0.15 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly six weeks of their first-year salary, making this one of the most affordable entry points into criminal justice careers in Massachusetts.

The earnings picture shows steady, if modest, growth: graduates start at $37,533 and reach $43,424 by year four, representing a 16% increase. While this lands in Massachusetts' middle tier—programs at Bunker Hill and Mass Bay deliver stronger earnings—Holyoke's combination of low debt and reasonable pay still works financially. You're looking at a manageable monthly loan payment that won't crowd out other financial goals.

For families concerned about college affordability, this program delivers what community colleges promise: job-relevant training without the burden of substantial debt. The earnings won't match what four-year institutions produce, but neither will the financial stress. If your child wants to work in law enforcement or corrections and prefers to start earning quickly rather than spending years in school, this represents a practical path forward.