Criminal Justice and Corrections at Strayer University-Texas

Strayer University-Texas delivers impressive earnings outcomes that place graduates well above national averages, but the debt burden creates a significant financial hurdle. At $43,405 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 15% more than the national median for criminal justice programs and substantially outpace the Texas state median of $35,862. The program ranks in the 81st percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Texas, indicating solid performance relative to peers.

However, the $56,937 median debt load—more than double both national and state averages—fundamentally changes the value equation. This debt burden ranks in the troubling 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with less debt. The 1.31 debt-to-income ratio means graduates start with debt exceeding their first year's salary, though the 17% earnings growth to year four provides some relief.

For families weighing this program, the core question is whether the higher earnings justify the premium debt load. While graduates do earn more than peers at most Texas schools, comparable institutions like Texas A&M-Central Texas and Lamar University offer similar outcomes with likely lower debt burdens. Given that 74% of Strayer students receive Pell grants, many families should seriously consider more affordable in-state options that deliver competitive career prospects without the heavy debt burden.