Analysis
Massachusetts criminal justice programs show wide variation in outcomes, and while Quincy College's specific figures aren't available, peer programs in the state suggest a relatively affordable path. The estimated $7,500 debt is roughly half the national median for this credential, which matters when starting salaries in this field typically hover in the mid-to-high $30,000s. That debt load translates to a manageable 0.20 debt-to-earnings ratio—well below the concerning threshold of 1.0 that signals financial strain.
The estimated first-year earnings of $37,533 align with Massachusetts medians but trail what some community colleges in the state report. Top performers like Bunker Hill and Mass Bay produce graduates earning $45,000-$47,000, a meaningful $8,000-$10,000 gap. The four-year earnings figure of $45,941 suggests steady growth, though it's unclear whether this represents actual outcomes for Quincy students or another estimate. For context, this field nationally pays about $33,000 after graduation, so Massachusetts programs generally offer stronger prospects.
The combination of below-average debt and earnings that match state norms creates a workable scenario, particularly for students concerned about minimizing borrowing. However, the lack of school-specific data means you're betting on peer program performance rather than verified outcomes. If your child is committed to criminal justice, compare this option directly with community colleges that have reported higher earnings—they might offer both better value and more transparent results.
Where Quincy College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quincy College | — | $45,941 | — |
| North Shore Community College | $32,379 | $51,379 | +59% |
| Bunker Hill Community College | $47,573 | $50,261 | +6% |
| Quinsigamond Community College | $40,039 | $45,098 | +13% |
| Northern Essex Community College | $39,426 | $44,559 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Criminal Justice and Corrections associates's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,536 | $37,533* | $45,941 | $7,500* | — | |
| $5,520 | $47,573* | $50,261 | $5,500* | 0.12 | |
| $5,616 | $45,144* | $43,689 | $6,333* | 0.14 | |
| $6,048 | $41,796* | $43,730 | $10,950* | 0.26 | |
| $5,974 | $40,039* | $45,098 | $16,250* | 0.41 | |
| $5,688 | $39,426* | $44,559 | $7,432* | 0.19 | |
| National Median | — | $33,269* | — | $14,230* | 0.43 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with criminal justice and corrections graduates
Financial Examiners
Emergency Management Directors
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Compliance Officers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Customs Brokers
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
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 Quincy College, approximately 34% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 11 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.