Criminal Justice and Corrections at Massachusetts Bay Community College

With just $6,333 in median debt, Mass Bay's criminal justice program delivers one of the cleanest financial outcomes you'll find anywhere—95th percentile nationally for low debt. Graduates start at $45,144, which beats the national median by more than $11,000 and ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally. That's legitimately impressive for a two-year degree. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift considerably with more data.

The main concern is what happens after year one: earnings slip to $43,689 by year four, suggesting graduates may hit a ceiling quickly in entry-level law enforcement or corrections roles. Still, within Massachusetts, this program holds its own—landing at the 60th percentile statewide and coming in second only to Bunker Hill among comparable community college programs. The debt load is so minimal that even if earnings plateau, graduates aren't burdened with the kind of payments that constrain their options.

For a parent, the calculus is straightforward: your child emerges with viable starting pay and negligible debt, creating breathing room to either advance through additional certifications or pivot careers without financial stress. Just recognize that career progression may require intentional steps beyond the degree itself.