Criminal Justice and Corrections at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University's criminal justice program stands out nationally, with first-year earnings of $45,356 placing it in the 92nd percentile—about $7,500 above what typical graduates earn from similar programs. That's a significant premium for an accessible school with an 88% admission rate. However, within Rhode Island's smaller market, the program performs more modestly, ranking at the 60th percentile and trailing several competitors by thousands of dollars.

The debt picture is reasonable at $26,000, creating a manageable 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio that graduates typically handle comfortably. What's particularly encouraging is the 22% earnings growth over four years, reaching $55,490—suggesting graduates gain traction in their careers rather than plateauing early. With a robust sample size of 100+ graduates, these aren't fluky numbers.

The practical question for Rhode Island families: Is the national reputation worth potentially paying more than in-state alternatives like Rhode Island College? If your child plans to work in law enforcement or corrections outside Rhode Island, Roger Williams' stronger national standing could justify the investment. But for families prioritizing in-state employment and lower costs, the state schools offer similar outcomes at potentially lower price points. This program works best for students who value Roger Williams' network and are willing to pursue opportunities wherever they lead.