Criminal Justice and Corrections at Strayer University-Delaware

Strayer University-Delaware's Criminal Justice program delivers strong earnings that rank in the 81st percentile nationally, but comes with a steep price tag that demands careful consideration. Graduates earn $43,405 in their first year—significantly above the national median of $37,856 for this field—and see solid growth to $50,636 by year four. However, with median debt of $56,937, students graduate owing more than twice the national average for criminal justice programs.

The debt burden creates a challenging financial picture despite the above-average earnings. At 1.31 times first-year income, the debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates will likely spend several years managing substantial loan payments. While Delaware has limited options for this program (only three schools), Strayer's earnings essentially match the state median, placing it squarely in the middle of local competition rather than at a premium.

For families considering this investment, the key question is whether the earnings advantage justifies the debt premium. The program serves a high Pell Grant population (69%), suggesting financial need among students, which makes the heavy debt load particularly concerning. Unless your child has strong financial aid or family support to reduce borrowing, this represents a risky investment where the debt could overshadow the career benefits for years after graduation.