Criminal Justice and Corrections at Monroe University

Monroe University's Criminal Justice program starts below average but shows unusual momentum—graduates earn just $32,695 in year one (well below the national median of $37,856) but jump to $45,793 by year four. That 40% earnings growth outpaces typical trajectories in this field and eventually pushes graduates above both state and national medians. In New York specifically, this program sits at the 40th percentile initially but likely climbs higher as that earnings curve continues.

The $27,000 debt load is close to national norms and manageable given the year-four earnings, though the rough first year matters. That initial 0.83 debt-to-earnings ratio means new graduates face real financial pressure right out of school, particularly in the Bronx where cost of living runs high. The 58% Pell grant rate suggests many students here start with limited financial cushion, making that first-year squeeze especially relevant.

This program rewards patience. If your child can weather lean early years—perhaps living at home or taking a second job—the earnings trajectory suggests they'll catch up to and surpass peers from pricier programs. But families banking on immediate post-graduation income to cover expenses should understand this is a slower build than the starting salary might suggest.