Criminal Justice and Corrections at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

UW-Eau Claire's criminal justice program demonstrates solid fundamentals: graduates manage debt better than most, with just $21,500 owed compared to the $27,000 state median. First-year earnings of $41,258 beat the national average by nearly $3,500, placing the program in the 70th percentile nationally. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 is manageable, meaning graduates can expect to pay off their debt in roughly half a year's salary.

However, the program sits at just the 40th percentile among Wisconsin's criminal justice programs—right in the middle of the pack. Several Herzing University locations produce graduates earning around $67,000, nearly 60% more than UW-Eau Claire. Even fellow UW System schools like Parkside and Superior edge ahead by about $1,000 annually. This isn't necessarily a red flag since Herzing's higher earnings may reflect different career paths or program focuses, but it's worth understanding what drives those differences.

The combination of below-median debt and above-national-average earnings makes this a financially sound choice if your child is committed to criminal justice. The 12% earnings growth over four years is modest but steady. For families prioritizing affordability within the UW System, this program delivers value without excessive debt risk, though it won't position graduates at the top of Wisconsin's criminal justice salary ladder.