Criminal Justice and Corrections at Missouri Baptist University

Missouri Baptist University's Criminal Justice program punches well above its weight class. Graduates earn $42,555 in their first year—outpacing the national median by $4,700 and landing in the 77th percentile nationwide. Within Missouri's competitive field of 26 programs, it ranks in the 60th percentile, trailing only well-known names like Park University and Saint Louis University. The 39% earnings jump to $59,300 by year four suggests graduates are advancing into supervisory or specialized roles rather than stalling at entry-level positions.

The debt picture sweetens the deal considerably. At $23,187, graduates owe roughly $3,000 less than typical criminal justice majors both nationally and statewide. The 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio means most graduates can service their loans on a single paycheck—a manageable starting point for a field that doesn't command six-figure salaries. For families concerned about value, this combination of below-average debt and above-average earnings creates meaningful financial breathing room.

This is particularly appealing for students targeting law enforcement or corrections careers in Missouri, where these earnings align well with public sector salary schedules. The moderate sample size means outcomes are reasonably stable, and the trajectory suggests career progression is genuinely achievable. If your child is committed to criminal justice work, this program delivers solid preparation at a price point that won't derail their financial future.