Analysis
Similar programs in North Dakota suggest first-year earnings around $41,000 for criminal justice graduates—solidly above the national median for this field and competitive with what larger state schools report. However, estimated debt of $27,000 means graduates would face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66, which translates to manageable but noticeable loan payments eating into entry-level public safety or corrections salaries. University of Jamestown's 94% admission rate and limited Pell enrollment suggest this is a regional access institution where outcomes can vary considerably based on individual circumstances.
The challenge here is that these figures come from peer programs across the state, not Jamestown's actual graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about what this specific program delivers. Criminal justice careers in North Dakota—whether in law enforcement, corrections, or probation—typically start at similar pay levels statewide, which the estimated earnings reflect. But the value proposition depends heavily on whether graduates secure positions quickly and whether the school's career services effectively connect students to agencies across the region.
For families considering this program, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable but not exceptional returns. If your child has secured admission to programs at Minot State or UND (both showing higher reported earnings), those might offer clearer value. Otherwise, confirm what job placement support Jamestown provides and whether local law enforcement agencies actively recruit from campus before committing to private-school debt levels for a public service career.
Where University of Jamestown Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all criminal justice and corrections bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Dakota
Criminal Justice and Corrections bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Dakota (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $24,820 | $41,071* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $8,634 | $45,579* | $48,088 | $26,343* | 0.58 | |
| $10,951 | $42,825* | $50,475 | $19,875* | 0.46 | |
| $12,715 | $39,317* | $38,902 | $42,037* | 1.07 | |
| $10,857 | $38,057* | $51,293 | $23,125* | 0.61 | |
| National Median | — | $37,856* | — | $26,130* | 0.69 |
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 University of Jamestown, approximately 26% 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 4 similar programs in ND. Actual outcomes may vary.