Criminal Justice and Corrections at Mount Marty University

In South Dakota's criminal justice landscape, where reported outcomes from peer institutions range from roughly $39,000 to $46,000 in first-year earnings, Mount Marty's estimated figures place it squarely in the middle. Similar programs in the state suggest starting salaries around $40,400—modestly above the national median for this field—while the estimated $27,000 debt load aligns closely with what bachelor's-level criminal justice graduates typically carry nationwide. The 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, with debt sitting at about two-thirds of first-year income.

Criminal justice careers often follow structured pay scales in law enforcement and corrections, which can make earnings relatively predictable but also cap early growth potential. The state's small number of programs (seven total) means fewer local alternatives, though the university's 48% admission rate and modest selectivity suggest accessibility matters here. For students certain about pursuing careers in South Dakota's justice system—where relationships and local hiring patterns matter—this estimated outcome picture appears workable, though not exceptional.

The real question is whether your child wants to stay in South Dakota after graduation. If they're aiming for higher-paying markets elsewhere or considering graduate school in law or public administration, verify whether this program's network extends beyond the state. With estimates clustering near the state median, Mount Marty appears neither a standout bargain nor a financial risk—it's tracking with South Dakota norms for this field.