Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting at Neumann University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Neumann University's Homeland Security program reports extraordinary numbers—graduates earning $125,391 just one year out, tripling the national median of $46,440 and significantly outpacing Pennsylvania's state median of $81,639. These figures place it at the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide. However, the critical caveat is sample size: fewer than 30 graduates contribute to these statistics, which means these numbers could reflect a few exceptional outcomes rather than typical results.
The debt picture looks reasonable at $18,664, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.15 if the earnings hold true. But here's what an anxious parent needs to know: these earnings levels suggest graduates are landing specialized federal positions or high-level security roles that may not be available to every graduate. The 20% earnings growth to $150,457 by year four is impressive, yet when only Pennsylvania's other option (Point Park University) reports median earnings of $37,887, something unusual is happening at Neumann—possibly connections to specific employers or a curriculum geared toward niche, high-paying roles.
The bottom line: These numbers are too exceptional and the sample too small to bank on them. If your child has clear connections to federal law enforcement or corporate security leadership tracks, this could be a phenomenal value. But without understanding what's driving these outlier earnings, you're making a decision on incomplete information. Request graduation outcome details from the university directly—specifically, what percentage of graduates actually achieve these salary levels.
Where Neumann University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all homeland security, law enforcement, firefighting bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Neumann University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Neumann University graduates earn $125k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all homeland security, law enforcement, firefighting bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neumann University | $125,391 | $150,457 | $18,664 | 0.15 |
| Point Park University | $37,887 | $55,296 | — | — |
| National Median | $46,440 | — | $24,111 | 0.52 |
Other Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point Park University Pittsburgh | $38,160 | $37,887 | — |
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 Neumann University, approximately 42% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 27 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.