Criminal Justice and Corrections at Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College's Criminal Justice program posts numbers that should reassure Idaho parents, though the small graduating class means individual circumstances can vary widely. Starting at $40,442 and climbing to $47,046 after four years, graduates earn modestly above both the national median ($37,856) and Idaho's state median ($39,166). More notably, they're outearning Boise State graduates by roughly $2,500 in first-year salaries—meaningful given that criminal justice roles often follow rigid pay scales where starting salary sets the trajectory.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $26,458, translating to a 0.65 ratio that most graduates can manage on law enforcement or corrections salaries. While slightly above Idaho's typical program debt, the higher earnings offset this difference. The 16% income growth over four years suggests graduates are moving into positions with better pay or gaining seniority within their agencies, rather than stagnating in entry-level roles.

The catch: with fewer than 30 graduates in this cohort, these figures could shift significantly year-to-year. One graduate landing a federal law enforcement position or another facing a tough job market can dramatically move the averages. For families confident their child will complete the degree and pursue a career in law enforcement or corrections—and who understand these fields typically don't lead to high salaries—this represents a solid in-state option that won't burden them with unmanageable debt.