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Best Social Mobility Colleges for Criminal Justice

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights
50
Schools Analyzed
$57,826
Avg. Earnings (10yr)
57%
Avg. Graduation Rate
$13,751
Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming, especially for those interested in criminal justice. This list highlights schools that excel in social mobility, helping students from diverse backgrounds achieve their career goals in this vital field.

What sets these institutions apart is their commitment to measurable outcomes. The data reveals significant differences in earnings, graduation rates, debt levels, and overall mobility for graduates. Understanding these metrics is essential for making an informed decision about which college can best support your aspirations in criminal justice.

For example, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers an average earning of $56,195, but with a graduation rate of only 56%. In contrast, the University of Virginia boasts a much higher earning potential of $86,863 with a graduation rate of 95%. These figures illustrate the trade-offs and opportunities available at different schools, encouraging a closer look at what each has to offer.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50
Avg. earnings at 10yr $57,826
Avg. graduation rate 57%
Avg. net price $13,751
Avg. median debt $19,299

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Criminal Justice

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

$15K$68K$120K$0$50KNET PRICECUNY JohnEast TexasGeorge MasonSan JoseFlorida International

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

CUNY John Jay College of…56%East Texas A&M University44%George Mason University69%San Jose State University67%Florida International Un…74%University of Central Fl…77%Southern Illinois Univer…56%University of North Flor…69%Florida State University84%Sam Houston State Univer…55%Bay Path University51%Florida Atlantic Univers…63%San Francisco State Univ…50%Bethel University35%Ferris State University47%San Diego State Universi…77%State University of New …59%Bristol Community College22%University of Florida-On…81%University of the Cumber…48%

Top 3

#1

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY

Graduation56%
Earnings$56,195
Net Price$3,203

View full profile →
#2

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX

Graduation44%
Earnings$50,296
Net Price$11,841

View full profile →
#3

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA

Graduation69%
Earnings$76,343
Net Price$17,915

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

#1

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

Located in New York City, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice serves a diverse student body of over 11,000. With a strong focus on criminal justice and public service, it equips students with the skills to tackle real-world challenges in these fields, making it a compelling choice for those passionate about justice and community safety.
57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings
CUNY's full profile
#2

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX · 9,912 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $50,296 earnings
East's full profile
#3

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

Located in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University serves a diverse population of over 27,000 students, making it a hub for academic and social engagement. The university excels in programs related to public policy, economics, and the arts, which contribute to a significant median earning of $76,343 a decade after graduation, making it an attractive option for ambitious students.
87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings
George's full profile
#4

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

San Jose State University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, serves a diverse student body of over 27,600. With a graduation rate of 67%, many students find solid pathways into the tech industry, where the median earnings reach about $78,988 a decade after graduation. This strong connection to local industries can give students an edge in landing internships and jobs, making it a smart choice for those pursuing careers in technology and business.
85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings
San's full profile
#5

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University is a bustling campus in Miami with over 39,000 students, known for its strong emphasis on diversity and global perspectives. With a graduation rate of 74%, students here not only benefit from a vibrant cultural setting but also from programs that prepare them for competitive job markets.
55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings
Florida's full profile
#6

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 59,000, the University of Central Florida in Orlando is one of the largest public universities in the country. The campus is alive with diverse activities and a strong focus on innovation, particularly in fields like engineering and computer science, which contribute to its impressive median earnings of $58,308 ten years after graduation.
40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings
University's full profile
#7

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings
Southern's full profile
#8

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

Nestled in Jacksonville, the University of North Florida has a student population of around 13,359, where a campus culture emphasizes academic achievement and personal growth. Graduating 69% of its students, the university supports a strong community that thrives both in the classroom and beyond. The potential earnings for graduates reach approximately $56,343 after ten years, which indicates a solid return on investment for students entering various fields.
53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings
University's full profile
#9

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University is home to over 32,000 students and boasts an impressive graduation rate of 84%. Located in Tallahassee, this public university offers a vibrant campus life and a wide range of academic programs, making it a strong contender for students seeking a comprehensive college experience.
24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings
Florida's full profile
#10

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX · 17,743 students · Public

90% accepted 55% graduate $54,211 earnings
Sam's full profile
#11

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings
Bay's full profile
#12

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University is nestled in Boca Raton, a coastal community that offers both beautiful scenery and a vibrant campus life. With a diverse student population of nearly 24,000, students can explore a range of programs, especially in health and science fields, which contribute to a median earning of $56,746 after graduation.
66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings
Florida's full profile
#13

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

San Francisco State University sits at the heart of one of the most vibrant cities in America, attracting students with its rich cultural scene and diverse programs. With a graduation rate of 50%, students can expect a community that supports their academic and personal growth, leading to median earnings of $68,077 after ten years. This combination of factors makes it a compelling choice for those seeking both education and life experiences.
96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings
San's full profile
#14

Bethel University

McKenzie, TN · 1,547 students · Private nonprofit

60% accepted 35% graduate $47,482 earnings
Bethel's full profile
#15

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings
Ferris's full profile
#16

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

San Diego State University is not just about sunny weather; it’s a place where academic success thrives, as evidenced by a 77% graduation rate. With nearly 35,400 students, the university fosters a vibrant community that encourages personal and professional growth in a beautiful coastal setting.
36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings
San's full profile
#17

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings
State's full profile
#18

Bristol Community College

Fall River, MA · 6,083 students · Public

22% graduate $38,663 earnings
Bristol's full profile
#19

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

University of Florida-Online is a robust choice for students seeking flexibility in their education with a fully online format. With an impressive graduation rate of 81%, it shows that many of its 4,627 students successfully navigate their degrees, making it an excellent fit for those balancing work and study or looking for a non-traditional college experience.
61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings
University's full profile
#20

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY · 6,941 students · Private nonprofit

99% accepted 48% graduate $45,036 earnings
University's full profile
#21

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 61% graduate $57,815 earnings
Saint's full profile
#22

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL · 4,015 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 65% graduate $66,099 earnings
Lewis's full profile
#23

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Buzzards Bay, MA · 1,395 students · Public

Massachusetts Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of education and hands-on training, preparing students for careers in marine and transportation fields. With an impressive graduation rate of 77%, it’s evident that students here are well-equipped to transition into successful careers upon completion of their studies.
95% accepted 77% graduate $82,392 earnings
Massachusetts's full profile
#24

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

Florida Gulf Coast University, nestled in Fort Myers, serves over 13,800 students and has a welcoming 63% acceptance rate. The university emphasizes a balance of academic excellence and personal development, with a graduation rate of 57% that reflects a supportive learning environment.
63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings
Florida's full profile
#25

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings
Portland's full profile
#26

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

Nestled along the Gulf Coast, the University of West Florida offers a scenic and engaging learning environment for its 9,330 students. With a graduation rate of 60%, it aims to foster success through a wide range of academic programs, encouraging students to thrive in both their studies and personal growth.
58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings
University's full profile
#27

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings
Illinois's full profile
#28

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

Nestled in Rohnert Park, Sonoma State University cultivates a close-knit community with a student body of about 5,200. With a 93% acceptance rate, it welcomes a diverse range of students, making it a great option for those seeking a personalized college experience in a beautiful setting.
93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings
Sonoma's full profile
#29

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK · 3,018 students · Public

76% accepted 32% graduate $45,079 earnings
Southeastern's full profile
#30

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, FL · 6,721 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 47% graduate $48,364 earnings
Saint's full profile
#31

Westfield State University

Westfield, MA · 3,615 students · Public

81% accepted 55% graduate $57,346 earnings
Westfield's full profile
#32

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings
Rhode's full profile
#33

University of North Texas

Denton, TX · 34,341 students · Public

72% accepted 60% graduate $57,010 earnings
University's full profile
#34

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX · 30,580 students · Public

87% accepted 52% graduate $57,131 earnings
The's full profile
#35

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX · 21,005 students · Public

100% accepted 48% graduate $50,923 earnings
The's full profile
#36

Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, OK · 4,772 students · Public

100% accepted 36% graduate $45,379 earnings
Northeastern's full profile
#37

Missouri Southern State University

Joplin, MO · 3,019 students · Public

97% accepted 40% graduate $42,620 earnings
Missouri's full profile
#38

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX · 36,177 students · Public

89% accepted 56% graduate $56,906 earnings
Texas's full profile
#39

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings
Minot's full profile
#40

Madonna University

Livonia, MI · 1,632 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 59% graduate $59,058 earnings
Madonna's full profile
#41

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND · 9,981 students · Public

77% accepted 62% graduate $63,552 earnings
University's full profile
#42

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA · 41,254 students · Public

69% accepted 50% graduate $57,552 earnings
Kennesaw's full profile
#43

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC · 24,453 students · Public

80% accepted 68% graduate $57,289 earnings
University's full profile
#44

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · 3,930 students · Public

88% accepted 58% graduate $60,624 earnings
Worcester's full profile
#45

University of Wyoming

Laramie, WY · 7,944 students · Public

97% accepted 59% graduate $56,880 earnings
University's full profile
#46

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL · 4,410 students · Public

71% accepted 45% graduate $54,163 earnings
Western's full profile
#47

SUNY Oneonta

Oneonta, NY · 4,643 students · Public

70% accepted 70% graduate $60,386 earnings
SUNY's full profile
#48

Seattle University

Seattle, WA · 4,062 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 74% graduate $75,272 earnings
Seattle's full profile
#49

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred

Alfred, NY · 3,563 students · Public

76% accepted 54% graduate $50,445 earnings
SUNY's full profile
#50

Utica University

Utica, NY · 2,278 students · Private nonprofit

92% accepted 56% graduate $63,277 earnings
Utica's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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