Criminal Justice and Corrections at Northland Community and Technical College

Northland's criminal justice program produces first-year earnings of $47,216—substantially above the national median of $33,269 but trailing Minnesota's state median of $50,959. This middle-of-the-pack position within Minnesota (40th percentile) matters more than the impressive national ranking, since most graduates will work in-state where they're competing with alumni from programs like Minnesota North College and Century College that deliver $6,000-$7,000 more annually.

The concerning element here is the earnings trajectory: graduates actually earn slightly less four years out than in their first year. Combined with debt of $12,138, the program offers a manageable financial burden (just three months of earnings to repay), but the stagnant income growth suggests limited advancement opportunities. The 22% Pell grant rate indicates this serves a relatively advantaged student population, which may influence both program costs and career outcomes.

With fewer than 30 graduates in the data, these numbers could swing significantly year to year. For families considering this program, the key question is whether staying closer to Thief River Falls justifies potentially earning $5,000-$6,000 less than graduates from metro-area community colleges. The debt level is reasonable, but earnings that plateau early could become a constraint if your child plans to support a family on a single income.