Criminology (Bachelor's Degree) at University of California-Irvine

Median Earnings (1yr)

$34,522

29th percentile

60th percentile in California

Median Debt

$15,865

37% below national median

Analysis

UC Irvine's criminology program stands out for keeping debt exceptionally low while delivering solid mid-tier performance within California. With just $15,865 in median debt—well below both the national average ($25,000) and California median ($17,050)—graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden. Among California's 11 criminology programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, meaning it performs better than most in-state alternatives.

The program shows impressive earning potential over time, with graduates seeing 47% income growth from $34,522 in year one to $50,638 by year four. While initial salaries lag behind the national median for criminology programs, the combination of low debt and strong earning trajectory creates a favorable financial picture. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 is quite manageable, especially considering UC Irvine's selective 26% admission rate suggests strong career services and alumni networks.

For parents weighing this investment, the math works in your favor: your child would graduate with less debt than typical criminology majors while attending a prestigious UC campus that provides solid earning potential. The program may not lead to the highest starting salaries in the field, but the low debt burden and proven income growth make this a financially sound choice for students interested in criminal justice careers.

Where University of California-Irvine Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all criminology bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How University of California-Irvine graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School	1 Year	4 Years	Growth
University of California-Irvine	$34,522	$50,638	+47%
University of Massachusetts Global	$42,698	$56,469	+32%
University of La Verne	$34,292	$52,520	+53%
California State University-San Marcos	$34,694	$49,760	+43%
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt	$29,123	$42,938	+47%

Compare to Similar Programs in California

Criminology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (11 total in state)

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School	In-State Tuition	Earnings (1yr)	Earnings (4yr)	Median Debt	Debt/Earnings
University of California-IrvineIrvine	$14,237	$34,522	$50,638	$15,865	0.46
University of Massachusetts GlobalAliso Viejo	$12,520	$42,698	$56,469	$25,725	0.60
California State University-San MarcosSan Marcos	$7,739	$34,694	$49,760	$14,810	0.43
University of La VerneLa Verne	$47,000	$34,292	$52,520	$26,000	0.76
California Lutheran UniversityThousand Oaks	$50,670	$31,963	—	$17,250	0.54
California State University-FresnoFresno	$6,980	$31,224	$40,745	$10,773	0.35
National Median	—	$37,476	—	$25,000	0.67

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with criminology graduates

Sociologists

Study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members.

$101,690/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Psychologists, All Other

All psychologists not listed separately.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Neuropsychologists

Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Clinical Neuropsychologists

Assess and diagnose patients with neurobehavioral problems related to acquired or developmental disorders of the nervous system, such as neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, and learning disabilities. Recommend treatment after diagnosis, such as therapy, medication, or surgery. Assist with evaluation before and after neurosurgical procedures, such as deep brain stimulation.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement administration. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Managers, All Other

All managers not listed separately.

Regulatory Affairs Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate production activities of an organization to ensure compliance with regulations and standard operating procedures.

Compliance Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.

Loss Prevention Managers

Plan and direct policies, procedures, or systems to prevent the loss of assets. Determine risk exposure or potential liability, and develop risk control measures.

Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other

All life, physical, and social science technicians not listed separately.

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 University of California-Irvine, approximately 37% 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 483 graduates with reported earnings and 471 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.