Criminal Justice and Corrections at Kean University

Kean University's criminal justice program outperforms most New Jersey competitors, with graduates earning $50,538 four years out—well above the state median of $34,611 and ranking in the 60th percentile among New Jersey schools. That $39,408 starting salary looks modest at first, but the 28% earnings jump over four years suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into career-track positions rather than staying stuck in entry-level security or corrections roles. Only two other New Jersey programs (Strayer and Felician) show higher earnings, and both come with similar debt loads.

The $25,993 in typical student debt sits right at the national average, creating a manageable 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio even in year one. With Kean's accessible admissions and nearly half of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a more economically diverse student body while still delivering solid outcomes. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives real confidence these numbers reflect the typical experience, not outliers.

For families concerned about the modest starting salary, the trajectory matters more than the entry point here. Graduates who stick with the field are seeing meaningful salary growth, and the debt burden won't dominate their budgets. This program represents a practical path into law enforcement or corrections work without the crushing debt that can derail early-career finances.