Criminal Justice and Corrections at University of Massachusetts-Boston

UMass Boston's Criminal Justice program delivers exactly what students should expect from a solid state university: reliable outcomes at a reasonable price. Starting at $42,325, graduates earn more than three-quarters of criminal justice majors nationwide and match the Massachusetts median for the field. The $27,000 debt load translates to manageable monthly payments—roughly $300—making this one of the more affordable pathways into law enforcement, corrections, or related fields.

The 24% earnings growth to $52,326 by year four suggests graduates find opportunities for advancement, whether through promotions within police departments or moves into federal positions. However, it's worth noting that Massachusetts has particularly strong criminal justice programs, and UMass Boston sits in the middle of the pack statewide. Schools like Northeastern and several smaller colleges place graduates into higher-paying positions, though often at significantly higher tuition costs. The trade-off here is straightforward: you're getting competitive outcomes without the debt burden of pricier alternatives.

For families weighing public versus private options in Massachusetts, this program makes financial sense. The admission profile (83% acceptance rate, 43% Pell recipients) suggests it serves students who need an accessible entry point into criminal justice careers. If your child is certain about this field and wants to minimize debt while staying in-state, this is a pragmatic choice that consistently delivers middle-class earnings.