Criminal Justice and Corrections at The University of Texas at El Paso

UTEP's Criminal Justice program stands out for delivering exceptional debt management while producing graduates whose earnings accelerate significantly over time. With median debt of just $19,381—far below both the national ($26,130) and Texas ($25,834) averages—students graduate with manageable financial obligations that represent only 58 cents for every dollar earned in the first year.

While starting salaries of $33,304 place graduates in the 20th percentile nationally, the program's strength becomes clear over time. Earnings jump 30% to $43,145 by year four, and within Texas, UTEP performs at the 40th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack among 62 programs statewide. This suggests the low national ranking reflects the broader market challenges facing criminal justice graduates rather than program-specific weaknesses.

For families prioritizing affordability and long-term earning potential over immediate high salaries, UTEP offers compelling value. The combination of minimal debt and strong earnings growth creates a foundation for financial stability that many higher-debt programs cannot match. Given that 61% of students receive Pell grants, this program effectively serves students who need both quality education and financial accessibility in pursuing criminal justice careers.