Criminal Justice and Corrections at Trevecca Nazarene University

A debt load nearly equal to first-year earnings—that's the reality suggested by comparable criminal justice programs in Tennessee. Based on peer programs at similar private institutions in the state, graduates typically carry around $35,000 in debt while earning roughly the same amount in their first year. That's substantially higher debt than the national median of $26,130 for this field, which demands scrutiny from families evaluating this investment.

The earnings estimate of $35,917 aligns with Tennessee's median for criminal justice bachelor's programs, but it's worth noting the range: some Tennessee schools report outcomes exceeding $54,000, while others hover closer to $38,000. Criminal justice is a field where employer, location, and specific career path dramatically affect starting pay—federal positions and specialized roles pay considerably more than entry-level corrections or security work. Without actual data for Trevecca's specific graduates, it's impossible to know where this program's alumni land within that spectrum.

Here's what matters: at nearly $35,000 in debt, graduates would need to secure positions on the higher end of the salary range to make loan repayment manageable. If your child is targeting federal law enforcement or specialized investigative roles, that's more achievable. If they're considering corrections or general security work, those monthly payments will consume a significant portion of take-home pay. Press the admissions office hard for actual placement data and starting salary information before committing.