Criminal Justice and Corrections at Regis University

Colorado criminal justice programs show a significant earnings spread, with graduates from some schools earning 60% more than others. Based on comparable programs in Colorado, Regis students can expect first-year earnings around $42,200—right at the state median but well below what some peers achieve. With an estimated $27,000 in debt, the financial picture is manageable: you're looking at borrowing roughly seven months of first-year salary, which is reasonable by bachelor's degree standards.

The challenge here isn't the debt load—it's the ceiling. Criminal justice careers often start modestly, and similar programs suggest earnings that may not grow dramatically in the early years. At $42,200, graduates would be earning slightly above the national median for this field but still face the reality of entry-level law enforcement or corrections work. The schools producing significantly higher earners (like CSU Global at nearly $62,000) suggest that program quality, location, or alumni networks can substantially affect outcomes in this field.

For parents, the key question is whether your child has a clear path into a specific criminal justice role. The estimated debt burden won't sink them, but the earnings suggest they'll need to be strategic about which positions they pursue and potentially where they're willing to relocate. If they're committed to the field and understand the salary realities, this is a workable investment—just not one likely to deliver financial surprises on the upside.