Criminal Justice and Corrections at Withlacoochee Technical College

First-year earnings of $37,788 place this program well below what criminal justice graduates typically earn in Florida. While the estimated debt load of about $9,500—based on comparable programs in the state—appears manageable, it's worth noting that similar programs at Palm Beach State and Hillsborough Community College report graduates earning $60,000-70,000 annually, nearly double what Withlacoochee graduates make. Even nearby Fort Myers Technical College shows considerably stronger outcomes at $58,949. That's a significant gap that debt-to-earnings ratios alone don't capture.

The 26% earnings growth to $47,729 by year four suggests career progression is possible, but graduates are still falling short of the typical first-year earnings at stronger Florida programs. For a field where starting salary often correlates directly with the employing agency and position secured, these numbers raise questions about the types of roles graduates are landing. Are they entering corrections at entry-level county positions rather than better-paying state or federal agencies? The data doesn't tell us, but the earnings gap suggests a meaningful difference in career placement.

For families considering this program, the modest debt is a plus, but the earnings lag is substantial enough to warrant looking closely at the other 39 programs across Florida. If your child is set on this region, understanding why outcomes differ so dramatically from programs just a few counties away becomes essential—it could be the difference between starting at $38,000 versus $60,000.