Analysis
Stonehill's criminology program demonstrates strong upward mobility, with graduate earnings jumping 36% from $40,928 to $55,475 in just four years. That $55,000 four-year mark significantly outpaces what most criminology programs deliver and suggests doors opening to better positions as graduates gain experience. While the first-year earnings land in the middle of the pack among Massachusetts criminology programs (60th percentile), the strong trajectory matters more than the starting point.
The debt load of $25,000 aligns with both national and state medians, creating a manageable 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. This isn't the lowest-cost option in Massachusetts—public universities like UMass Dartmouth offer cheaper paths into the field—but the moderate debt combined with solid earnings growth creates a workable financial picture. The program outperforms the national median by nearly $3,500 in year one, positioning in the 78th percentile nationally even if it's more middle-tier within the state.
For families willing to pay a moderate premium over public options, this program offers a reasonable bet. The earnings trajectory suggests graduates are advancing into roles with real career development potential rather than stagnating in entry-level positions. Just recognize you're paying somewhat more than state school alternatives for that trajectory.
Where Stonehill College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Stonehill College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stonehill College | $40,928 | $55,475 | +36% |
| Gonzaga University | $38,028 | $69,525 | +83% |
| Lasell University | $40,527 | $56,726 | +40% |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | $37,535 | $53,581 | +43% |
| Framingham State University | $41,431 | $52,600 | +27% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Criminology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54,500 | $40,928 | $55,475 | $25,000 | 0.61 | |
| $49,414 | $48,600 | — | $27,000 | 0.56 | |
| $11,630 | $41,431 | $52,600 | $25,974 | 0.63 | |
| $26,000 | $40,527 | $56,726 | $27,000 | 0.67 | |
| $15,208 | $37,535 | $53,581 | $27,000 | 0.72 | |
| $46,686 | $36,824 | — | $26,348 | 0.72 | |
| National Median | — | $37,476 | — | $25,000 | 0.67 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with criminology graduates
Sociologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Stonehill College, approximately 15% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 63 graduates with reported earnings and 84 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.