Criminal Justice and Corrections at Saint Peter's University

Saint Peter's graduates start significantly behind the curve, earning just $28,558 in their first year—about $10,000 less than the typical New Jersey criminal justice graduate and in the bottom 5th percentile nationally. Even within New Jersey, where this program ranks 25th percentile, Saint Peter's lags behind nearly every competitor, from Kean University ($39,408) to smaller schools like Centenary ($37,259).

The compelling counterpoint is the earnings trajectory: by year four, graduates reach $44,423, representing 56% growth and surpassing both state and national benchmarks. This suggests the degree eventually delivers value, but parents need to understand what that first year means practically. At $28,558, graduates will struggle to make meaningful progress on their $23,500 in debt while covering basic living expenses in the expensive New York metro area. That initial earning period creates financial stress that could have been avoided at peer institutions where graduates start $8,000-$15,000 higher.

The program serves a predominantly working-class student body (54% receive Pell grants), and those students cannot afford a slow financial start. If your child is debt-averse and needs immediate earning power, the other New Jersey options provide a clearer path. If they're committed to Saint Peter's for other reasons, they should minimize borrowing and prepare for several lean years before the earnings catch up.