Criminal Justice and Corrections at Monroe Community College

Monroe Community College's Criminal Justice program starts at just $28,600 annually but shows impressive earnings growth to $42,200 by year four—a 47% jump that suggests graduates gain traction in law enforcement careers as they gain experience and seniority. However, that first year sits well below both the New York median ($31,500) and the national average ($33,300). Among the state's 54 programs, MCC ranks at the 40th percentile, meaning three out of five comparable New York programs produce higher initial earnings.

The $11,000 debt load is manageable—actually below New York's median for this program—but the weak starting salary creates a rocky first year financially. Your child would likely need supplemental income or family support while they build credentials. The strong four-year earnings growth suggests the associate's degree opens doors to positions with clear advancement paths, though it's worth noting that top-performing New York community colleges like SUNY Broome ($40,700) deliver higher starting salaries immediately.

This program works best for students willing to accept below-average starting pay in exchange for debt they can reasonably manage, banking on career progression over time. If your child needs solid earnings right out of school, other New York programs deliver better initial outcomes.