Criminal Justice and Corrections at Indiana University-Southeast

IU-Southeast's Criminal Justice program produces graduates earning around $42,000—better than three-quarters of similar programs nationwide, though landing in the middle of the pack for Indiana. The modest debt load of $23,950 translates to manageable monthly payments, especially with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 that suggests graduates can reasonably handle repayment on entry-level corrections or law enforcement salaries.

The nearly flat earnings trajectory between year one and year four is the main concern here. While graduates start slightly ahead of typical Indiana criminal justice majors, that advantage doesn't grow over time. Compare this to top-performing Indiana programs like Calumet College or Vincennes, where graduates earn $10,000+ more annually. The 83% admission rate and relatively accessible price point make this a solid safety option, but students serious about maximizing earnings in this field should consider why some Indiana competitors produce significantly better outcomes.

The small sample size means these numbers could shift with just a handful of graduates, so don't treat them as gospel. However, the combination of above-average starting salaries and below-average debt makes this a financially sensible choice for students committed to staying local—just don't expect dramatic salary growth in the first few years of your career.