Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Based on comparable criminal justice programs in Ohio, graduates with this associate's degree can expect around $38,500 in first-year earnings—a figure that places them near the state median but below several Ohio University campuses that report outcomes in the mid-$40,000s. The estimated debt of $22,119 is notably higher than the state median of $16,799 for similar programs, though the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 remains manageable by typical standards. For context, Ohio's criminal justice associate's programs range widely in outcomes, from the lower $30,000s to nearly $50,000, suggesting that employer connections and program specifics matter considerably.
The challenge here is transparency: with both earnings and debt figures derived from peer programs rather than Tiffin's actual graduate outcomes, you're essentially betting that this program performs like the Ohio average rather than like the stronger options nearby. That $22,000 debt load—about $6,000 above what students typically borrow at peer programs in the state—means you're paying more for uncertain results. Criminal justice careers often start modestly regardless of school, so the question becomes whether Tiffin's smaller program offers networking or placement advantages that justify the premium.
If your child is set on criminal justice in Ohio, compare this directly to community colleges and the Ohio University regional campuses that report stronger earnings. The estimated numbers here suggest middle-of-the-road outcomes at above-average cost, which isn't inherently disqualifying but requires confidence that Tiffin's specific career services and employer relationships will deliver.
Where Tiffin University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Criminal Justice and Corrections associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (57 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $32,400 | $38,497* | — | $22,119* | — | |
| $4,624 | $47,397* | — | $10,782* | 0.23 | |
| $6,178 | $44,159* | $46,411 | $13,500* | 0.31 | |
| $6,178 | $44,159* | $46,411 | $13,500* | 0.31 | |
| $6,178 | $44,159* | $46,411 | $13,500* | 0.31 | |
| $13,746 | $44,159* | $46,411 | $13,500* | 0.31 | |
| National Median | — | $33,269* | — | $14,230* | 0.43 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with criminal justice and corrections graduates
Financial Examiners
Emergency Management Directors
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Compliance Officers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers
Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Customs Brokers
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
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 Tiffin University, approximately 36% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 16 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.