Criminal Justice and Corrections at Southeast Community College Area

Southeast Community College's Criminal Justice program starts graduates at just $28,473—well below the $33,269 national median and ranking in the bottom fifth of similar programs nationwide. That first year looks discouraging, but it's only part of the story. By year four, earnings jump 63% to $46,309, ultimately surpassing both the national and Nebraska averages. This trajectory suggests graduates may start in entry-level security or corrections roles before moving into better-paying law enforcement positions as they gain experience and complete additional training requirements.

The $14,552 debt load is manageable and roughly in line with state norms, though that 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation means you're looking at a year where loan payments will feel tight. Compared to other Nebraska programs, this one sits squarely in the middle—Northeast Community College produces notably higher first-year earnings at $33,064, which matters if your student needs immediate income.

The real question is whether your child can weather that difficult first year financially and has the patience for a career that rewards persistence over time. If they're committed to law enforcement and can handle starting wages around $28,000, the four-year numbers show this path does lead somewhere. But students needing faster returns might want to explore Northeast's program or consider whether a different field offers more immediate stability.