Criminology at Regis University

Regis University's criminology program carries a median debt load of $39,337—significantly higher than both the Colorado median ($30,668) and the national median ($25,000) for this degree. Based on comparable bachelor's programs in criminology nationwide, first-year earnings typically land around $37,476, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio just above 1.0. That means graduates can expect to owe roughly their entire first year's salary, a tighter margin than the field typically produces.

The context matters here: other Colorado criminology programs, like University of Denver's, report first-year earnings around $40,667 with lower debt loads. While Regis's accessible admission rate (87%) serves students who might not have other options, the financial premium is substantial. For a field where earnings tend to plateau early—law enforcement and corrections positions often follow rigid pay scales—starting with nearly $40,000 in debt means years of aggressive repayment or extended timelines that compound the burden.

If your child is committed to criminology, compare this carefully against University of Denver or in-state public options that typically charge less. The estimated earnings suggest this degree can lead to stable employment, but the debt load at Regis specifically makes it a riskier bet than peer programs in Colorado. Lower-cost alternatives exist for the same credential and similar career outcomes.