Criminal Justice and Corrections at North Shore Community College

North Shore's criminal justice program shows an unusual earnings trajectory: graduates start well behind the pack at $32,379—below both the national and state medians—but make significant ground over four years, reaching $51,379. That 59% earnings growth suggests graduates who stick with the field can advance into better-paying positions, though the question is whether that initial lag matters if you need income right away.

The low debt load of $9,656 makes this a relatively safe bet financially, especially compared to the $14,230 national median. Among Massachusetts criminal justice programs, though, this ranks in just the 40th percentile for earnings. The top community college programs in the state—like Bunker Hill at $47,573 and Mass Bay at $45,144—produce substantially higher starting salaries. If you're staying in Massachusetts and have options, those numbers are hard to ignore.

For families prioritizing affordability and long-term growth over immediate earnings, this works. The debt is manageable enough that the lower starting salary won't create a financial crisis, and graduates who advance in law enforcement or corrections careers appear to do well by year four. But if your child needs to start earning at a competitive level immediately after graduation, stronger programs are available within the state system.