Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,405
81st percentile (60th in TN)
Median Debt
$56,937
118% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
1.31
Elevated
Sample Size
406
Adequate data

Analysis

Strayer University-Tennessee's Criminal Justice program commands premium pricing for premium results. While graduates carry significantly more debt than typical—$56,937 versus a national median of $26,130—they earn substantially more than their peers, with first-year salaries of $43,405 that place them in the 81st percentile nationally. This earning power more than justifies the investment, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio of 1.31.

The Tennessee context reveals an interesting dynamic: while Strayer graduates out-earn the state median by nearly $8,000, they rank only in the 60th percentile among Tennessee programs. This suggests the state has several strong performers, including Bethel University ($54,207) and Cumberland University ($45,223). However, Strayer's robust 17% earnings growth to $50,636 by year four demonstrates solid career trajectory potential.

For families concerned about the higher debt load, consider that 86% of students receive Pell grants, indicating significant financial aid availability. The program serves a predominantly working-class population while delivering earnings that meaningfully exceed both national and state benchmarks. Given the reliable sample size and strong earning outcomes, this represents a solid investment despite the premium cost—particularly for students who secure substantial financial aid.

Where Strayer University-Tennessee Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections bachelors's programs nationally

Strayer University-TennesseeOther criminal justice and corrections programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Strayer University-Tennessee graduates compare to all programs nationally

Strayer University-Tennessee graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 81th percentile of all criminal justice and corrections bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee

Criminal Justice and Corrections bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (25 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Strayer University-Tennessee$43,405$50,636$56,9371.31
Bethel University$54,207$53,625$31,2500.58
Cumberland University$45,223$47,688——
Middle Tennessee State University$37,952$46,241$24,0930.63
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga$37,403$38,871$22,9950.61
Austin Peay State University$36,749$45,655$25,2810.69
National Median$37,856—$26,1300.69

Other Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs in Tennessee

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Bethel University
McKenzie
$18,168$54,207$31,250
Cumberland University
Lebanon
$27,840$45,223—
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro
$9,506$37,952$24,093
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Chattanooga
$10,144$37,403$22,995
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville
$8,675$36,749$25,281

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 Strayer University-Tennessee, approximately 86% 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 406 graduates with reported earnings and 673 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.