Analysis
In Oklahoma's competitive criminal justice market, similar programs typically produce first-year earnings around $40,000—right in line with what comparable programs across the state report. Mid-America Christian's estimated debt load of $27,000 mirrors the national median for private institutions offering this degree, though it runs higher than the $21,500 median for Oklahoma programs overall. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 suggests manageable repayment if graduates enter the field immediately, but with 40% of students receiving Pell grants, that monthly payment could still stretch tight budgets.
The four-year earnings figure of $47,816 shows modest but steady income growth, which tracks with what you'd expect in law enforcement and corrections careers. However, peer programs in Oklahoma show notable variation—University of Oklahoma graduates earn $53,000 in their first year, while other state schools cluster around $39,000-$41,000. Where Mid-America Christian's graduates actually fall within this range remains uncertain given the estimated figures.
The practical question is whether a private Christian university experience justifies potentially higher debt than state alternatives when career outcomes appear similar. For families prioritizing Mid-America's faith-based environment and smaller setting, the financial picture isn't alarming. But if cost is the primary concern, comparing actual aid packages against Oklahoma's public options—which serve the same employers—would clarify whether you're paying a premium for intangibles or getting comparable value.
Where Mid-America Christian University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-America Christian University | — | $47,816 | — |
| University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $53,003 | $54,438 | +3% |
| University of Central Oklahoma | $39,609 | $44,492 | +12% |
| Northeastern State University | $39,668 | $44,016 | +11% |
| East Central University | $41,437 | $41,685 | +1% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Criminal Justice and Corrections bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (17 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $19,896 | $39,609* | $47,816 | $27,000* | — | |
| $9,595 | $53,003* | $54,438 | $27,156* | 0.51 | |
| $8,032 | $41,437* | $41,685 | $21,553* | 0.52 | |
| $7,513 | $39,668* | $44,016 | $23,050* | 0.58 | |
| $8,522 | $39,609* | $44,492 | $22,875* | 0.58 | |
| $7,392 | $38,064* | — | $17,880* | 0.47 | |
| National Median | — | $37,856* | — | $26,130* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with criminal justice and corrections graduates
Financial Examiners
Emergency Management Directors
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Compliance Officers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Customs Brokers
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
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 Mid-America Christian University, approximately 40% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 7 similar programs in OK. Actual outcomes may vary.