Criminology at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

SIU-Carbondale's criminology program outperforms most Illinois alternatives, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide despite being far more affordable than the top program at Concordia. Starting earnings of $37,645 jump to $50,711 by year four—a 35% increase that's unusually strong for this field. That growth trajectory matters because many criminology graduates see flatter earnings curves. The $24,000 debt load matches the state median and sits below the national benchmark, creating a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio.

The numbers reveal a program that delivers solid outcomes without the selectivity premium. While SIU-Carbondale's 90% admission rate might raise eyebrows, graduates here earn more than counterparts at selective Dominican University and substantially outpace National Louis. This suggests the program's law enforcement and corrections connections translate into real career momentum, not just initial placement.

For parents weighing this against pricier private options in Illinois, the value equation is straightforward: similar debt, better earnings growth, and outcomes that beat 60% of state programs. The robust sample size confirms these aren't statistical flukes. If your student is considering criminal justice careers in Illinois, this program provides a cost-effective launching pad with genuine upward mobility built in.