Criminology at Stockton University

Stockton's criminology graduates start modestly at $34,596, trailing both the national median ($37,476) and New Jersey's median ($37,619) by about $3,000. In a state with only three programs offering this degree, Stockton lands at the 40th percentile—meaning grads here typically earn less than those from Fairleigh Dickinson's two campuses, which both hit the state median exactly. This isn't surprising given Stockton's broad access mission (88% acceptance rate, 42% Pell recipients), but it's worth noting that early earnings lag behind what you'd expect for the field.

The encouraging news is the trajectory: earnings jump 42% by year four, reaching $49,278. That growth rate suggests graduates are finding their footing in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields after initial entry-level positions. The debt load of $23,406 is reasonable—lower than both state and national medians—resulting in a manageable 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. Within two years, most graduates should earn more than their total debt.

For families focused on criminal justice careers in New Jersey, Stockton offers an affordable entry point with decent upside, particularly if your child can leverage the state's job market for corrections officers, probation officers, or municipal police roles. Just understand they'll likely start behind peers from other programs and need those first few years to catch up.