Criminal Justice and Corrections at University of Mississippi

Ole Miss's Criminal Justice program starts graduates at a concerning $31,875—roughly 16% below the state median and in just the 13th percentile nationally. That first-year figure trails even Mississippi College and Southern Miss by substantial margins. However, the story improves dramatically: by year four, earnings jump 45% to $46,284, vaulting above all comparison schools in the state. This pattern suggests graduates are landing entry-level positions initially but accessing better career opportunities than peers from other programs as they gain experience.

The relatively modest debt of $22,171 (well below both state and national medians) provides important cushion during those lean first years. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70, graduates can realistically manage payments even on that initial salary. The strong earnings trajectory indicates the degree opens doors to supervisory roles or specialized positions in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields that take time to secure.

For families, this means accepting short-term financial pressure in exchange for longer-term career mobility. If your child can weather that first year—perhaps by living at home or taking a second job—the investment appears sound. But if they need immediate earnings to be financially independent, other Mississippi programs might offer a steadier, if ultimately lower, trajectory.