Analysis
Lasell's criminology program shows promising earnings growth, but its position among Massachusetts options tells a more complicated story. While graduates earn solidly above the national median and see a robust 40% salary increase by year four, this program sits in the 40th percentile statewide—meaning three nearby schools produce higher earners. With Assumption grads earning nearly $50,000 and even public Framingham State edging ahead, families should understand they're paying private tuition for middle-tier outcomes within Massachusetts.
The $27,000 debt load is manageable relative to that first-year salary of $40,527, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67 indicates graduates can reasonably handle repayment. The strong earnings trajectory—jumping to nearly $57,000 by year four—suggests career momentum after that initial entry period. However, these figures come from a small sample of under 30 graduates, which means individual experiences may vary considerably from these medians.
For families weighing this program, the question becomes whether Lasell's environment justifies private tuition when public alternatives like Framingham State offer similar earnings at lower cost, or when Assumption delivers significantly better outcomes at a comparable price point. The program works if your student thrives in Lasell's setting, but it's not a financial standout among Massachusetts criminology options.
Where Lasell University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Lasell University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lasell University | $40,527 | $56,726 | +40% |
| Gonzaga University | $38,028 | $69,525 | +83% |
| Stonehill College | $40,928 | $55,475 | +36% |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | $37,535 | $53,581 | +43% |
| Framingham State University | $41,431 | $52,600 | +27% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Criminology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (8 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,000 | $40,527 | $56,726 | $27,000 | 0.67 | |
| $49,414 | $48,600 | — | $27,000 | 0.56 | |
| $11,630 | $41,431 | $52,600 | $25,974 | 0.63 | |
| $54,500 | $40,928 | $55,475 | $25,000 | 0.61 | |
| $15,208 | $37,535 | $53,581 | $27,000 | 0.72 | |
| $46,686 | $36,824 | — | $26,348 | 0.72 | |
| National Median | — | $37,476 | — | $25,000 | 0.67 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with criminology graduates
Sociologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Lasell University, approximately 32% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 27 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.