Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Criminal Justice

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$96,535

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

81%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$29,288

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in Criminal Justice, prospective students often look for programs that not only provide a solid education but also lead to strong earnings after graduation. The schools on this list have demonstrated their ability to prepare graduates for lucrative careers in this field, with average earnings reaching $97,581.

What sets these institutions apart are the critical outcomes that matter most in a Criminal Justice program. Factors like graduate earnings, completion rates, debt levels, and mobility play key roles in determining the value of a degree. The schools listed below have excelled in these areas, making them top choices for students who want to ensure a return on their investment.

For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology stands out with impressive earnings of $143,372 and a high graduation rate of 96%. In contrast, MCPHS University, while offering a decent earning potential at $125,557, has a significantly lower graduation rate of 63%. This disparity highlights the importance of not just the earnings potential, but also the support systems in place for students to succeed.

Key Findings

The average earnings for graduates in this list is $97,581.

MIT leads with $143,372 in earnings, while MCPHS has a lower earning potential at $125,557.

Graduation rates vary significantly: MIT at 96% vs. MCPHS at 63%.

Babson College and Bentley University also show strong earnings, $123,938 and $120,959 respectively.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $96,535

Avg. graduation rate 81%

Avg. net price $29,288

Avg. median debt $21,155

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation93%

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, MIT consistently proves its commitment to student success. Students here engage in rigorous coursework that prepares them for rewarding careers, as reflected in the impressive median earnings of $143,372 a decade after graduation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford's campus, nestled in Silicon Valley, is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. With a graduation rate of 92%, students are immersed in an environment that not only fosters academic excellence but also encourages groundbreaking research, leading to median earnings of $124,080 after ten years.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College in Wellesley is a hub for students passionate about entrepreneurship and business. With a tight-knit community of just over 2,700 students, Babson fosters an environment where innovative thinking and practical experience intertwine, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the business world.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University, located in Waltham, is a great option for students interested in business and technology. With 88% of students graduating, Bentley emphasizes experiential learning and career readiness, making it a strong choice for those looking to enter the job market equipped with relevant skills.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston offers a focused approach to health sciences education, attracting students aiming for careers in healthcare. With a unique educational environment, MCPHS emphasizes hands-on experience, which is critical for students pursuing professions in nursing, pharmacy, and other health-related fields.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College is dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, particularly in pharmacy. With a graduation rate of 68%, students can expect a supportive community focused on practical training, leading to median earnings of $131,426 after ten years.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking graduation rate of 93%, Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California, is a leader in engineering and the sciences. Students here thrive in a collaborative environment that emphasizes innovation and problem-solving, and they graduate with a median earning of $138,687 at ten years post-enrollment, reflecting the value of their education in the job market.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Saint Louis, this school focuses on health sciences and pharmacy, providing a supportive environment for future healthcare professionals. With a 69% graduation rate, it attracts students passionate about making a difference in the medical field, with median earnings of $137,047 ten years after graduation.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · 17,597 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 95%, the University of Virginia in Charlottesville is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The school attracts motivated students who seek a rigorous education combined with a rich tradition of community engagement and leadership development.

17% accepted 95% graduate $86,863 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has a storied history and a strong emphasis on technology and the arts, reflected in its 93% graduation rate. With a large student body of 7,304, it offers a vibrant campus life and connections to industries that value graduates' skills, leading to a median earning of $114,862 at ten years post-graduation.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#11

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Buzzards Bay, MA · 1,395 students · Public

Situated in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Maritime Academy focuses on preparing students for careers in maritime and transportation fields, evidenced by a graduation rate of 77%. With 1,395 students, the academy offers hands-on training and a unique educational experience, resulting in a median earning of $82,392 at ten years after graduation, a solid return on investment for many graduates.

95% accepted 77% graduate $82,392 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#12

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore presents a strong academic environment with an 80% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success. Known for its liberal arts education and emphasis on community engagement, Loyola cultivates a supportive atmosphere for students looking to grow personally and professionally.

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#13

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is a hub for innovation and research in Pasadena, attracting a select group of 987 students. With an impressive 94% graduation rate, students here benefit from rigorous academics and a collaborative culture where scientific inquiry thrives.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#14

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering in Needham, Massachusetts, is a small but mighty institution that boasts a 94% graduation rate. With only 377 students, it cultivates a tight-knit community focused on engineering and entrepreneurship, leading graduates to earn a median salary of $129,455 after ten years, showcasing the strong demand for its alumni in the workforce.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#15

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia is a vibrant institution where exceptional academics meet a diverse student body of over 10,000. With a stunning 97% graduation rate, UPenn is dedicated to cultivating leaders across various disciplines, from business to the arts and sciences.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Ohio Northern University

Ada, OH · 2,489 students · Private nonprofit

In the small town of Ada, Ohio Northern University offers a close-knit community for its 2,489 students. The school's 75% graduation rate reflects its supportive environment, helping students thrive academically and socially. With a focus on practical education, Ohio Northern prepares students for the workforce, which is evident in its high median earnings of $80,928 after ten years.

74% accepted 75% graduate $80,928 earnings

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

San Jose State University, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, provides an exciting environment for its 27,601 students. The school’s graduation rate of 67% reflects its commitment to student success in a fast-paced, technology-driven world. With median earnings of $78,988 ten years after graduation, the university prepares students for lucrative careers in a region known for innovation and opportunity.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

George Mason University is a large public institution with a diverse student body of nearly 28,000. The university’s cultural and academic offerings are broad, appealing to students interested in various fields, especially in public policy, business, and the liberal arts, reflecting its commitment to serving a wide array of interests and career paths.

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#19

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is renowned for its academic rigor and commitment to excellence, making it a compelling choice for serious students. With an impressive graduation rate of 97%, the school supports its 5,709 students through a range of resources. They enjoy median earnings of $110,066 after ten years, showcasing the university's ability to prepare students for high-paying careers.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

#20

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Santa Clara University is committed to ensuring students not only enroll but also complete their degrees. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, it presents unique opportunities for networking and internships, especially in tech and business fields, making it an attractive choice for those looking to launch their careers in these dynamic industries.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

American University

Washington, DC · 7,266 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $77,370 just ten years after graduation, American University attracts students looking to build strong careers in Washington, D.C. Its urban campus is known for fostering a vibrant community and a focus on real-world experiences, which can enhance students' job prospects in politics, international relations, and communication fields.

62% accepted 77% graduate $77,370 earnings

American's full profile

#22

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

Stevens Institute of Technology, situated in Hoboken, NJ, attracts students with its strong emphasis on engineering and technology. With an 88% graduation rate, it cultivates a focused academic environment where students are prepared for competitive fields. The proximity to New York City further enhances internship and job opportunities in tech and finance, making it an appealing choice for those aiming for high-impact careers.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#23

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, FL · 7,860 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $84,131 ten years after graduation, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach is a compelling choice for those interested in aerospace and aviation careers. This school, known for its specialized programs, attracts students eager to design the future of flight and space exploration.

65% accepted 67% graduate $84,131 earnings

Embry-Riddle's full profile

#24

Marist University

Poughkeepsie, NY · 5,182 students · Private nonprofit

Marist University, located in picturesque Poughkeepsie, New York, offers a solid 80% graduation rate and median earnings of $77,819 after ten years, making it a smart option for students aiming for success in the job market. The school emphasizes practical experience, fostering connections that can lead to exciting career paths, particularly in fields like communications and business.

57% accepted 80% graduate $77,819 earnings

Marist's full profile

#25

Seattle University

Seattle, WA · 4,062 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Seattle, Seattle University offers a vibrant campus life and a commitment to social justice and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 74%, students are encouraged to develop not only academically but also as future leaders, ready to make a positive impact in their fields and communities.

77% accepted 74% graduate $75,272 earnings

Seattle's full profile

#26

Immaculata University

Immaculata, PA · 1,320 students · Private nonprofit

Immaculata University, nestled in Immaculata, PA, is known for its personalized approach to education, with a strong focus on student support and a welcoming campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 68%, students are encouraged to engage deeply with their studies and the community around them, fostering a sense of belonging that can enhance the college experience.

86% accepted 68% graduate $75,701 earnings

Immaculata's full profile

#27

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University is known for its rigorous academic programs and strong focus on engineering and business disciplines, which contribute to the remarkable median earnings of $105,584 a decade after graduation. With an impressive 89% graduation rate, Lehigh shapes its students into leaders who are prepared to excel in their chosen fields and make significant impacts in the world.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#28

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University is a prestigious institution in Ithaca, NY, known for its rigorous academic programs and a remarkable graduation rate of 95%. Students here benefit from a collaborative culture that emphasizes research, critical thinking, and innovation, preparing them for a range of successful careers.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#29

University of Scranton

Scranton, PA · 3,554 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the University of Scranton offers a strong sense of community and a commitment to student success. With an 80% graduation rate, students benefit from a supportive environment, and the median earnings of $74,652 a decade after graduating demonstrate that alumni find solid career opportunities.

81% accepted 80% graduate $74,652 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia Institute of Technology is known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on research and innovation. With a remarkable graduation rate of 93%, students here have a solid support system, and the median earnings of $102,772 at 10 years post-graduation highlight the potential for substantial career success.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#31

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Boston College demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. This private nonprofit institution in Chestnut Hill, MA, has a vibrant campus life and a rigorous academic environment that encourages students to excel both personally and professionally. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment sit at an impressive $103,937, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#32

Iona University

New Rochelle, NY · 2,951 students · Private nonprofit

Iona University offers a different experience, with a graduation rate of 57% that may raise questions for prospective students. However, the median earnings of $73,595 ten years after graduation indicate that graduates can still find success in the job market, particularly in fields that value personal connections and community involvement.

87% accepted 57% graduate $73,595 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University, situated in the heart of Washington, DC, boasts a graduation rate of 95%, reflecting its dedication to student achievement. This private nonprofit institution is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in international relations and law, which prepare students for impactful careers. The median earnings for graduates ten years after graduation reach $103,494, showcasing the school’s ability to help students secure lucrative positions in competitive fields.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#34

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, located in sunny Claremont, CA, is known for its strong focus on economics and government, with a graduation rate of 93%. With a small student body of just 1,388, this private nonprofit college fosters close relationships between students and faculty, creating an enriching academic environment. Graduates enjoy a high median earning of $104,736 ten years post-graduation, illustrating the effectiveness of the education received here.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#35

Western New England University

Springfield, MA · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Western New England University, located in Springfield, Massachusetts, offers a welcoming environment with an acceptance rate of 83%. Tailored for students who value a close-knit community, this private nonprofit university has a student body of around 2,600. With a graduation rate of 64%, it provides a supportive atmosphere that helps students navigate their academic journeys while preparing them for rewarding careers, as shown by median earnings of $73,157 after ten years.

83% accepted 64% graduate $73,157 earnings

Western's full profile

#36

Salve Regina University

Newport, RI · 2,121 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Newport, Salve Regina University attracts around 2,100 students with its commitment to liberal arts and professional studies. A graduation rate of 76% indicates that many students find their footing and complete their degrees in a supportive environment. With median earnings of $72,975 after ten years, graduates are positioned for success in various fields, showing the value of a Salve education.

68% accepted 76% graduate $72,975 earnings

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 83%, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a solid choice for students eager to dive into STEM fields. The school's strong focus on engineering and technology equips graduates with valuable skills, as reflected in a median earnings figure of $102,051 ten years after graduation. This suggests that Rensselaer students are often well-prepared to enter high-paying jobs in their chosen industries.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#38

Rutgers University-Newark

Newark, NJ · 7,709 students · Public

Rutgers University-Newark is known for its commitment to diversity and community engagement, with a student body that includes 59% Pell Grant recipients. The university supports a diverse range of academic programs, making it an appealing choice for those interested in exploring various fields while contributing to the community around them, reflecting a strong ethos of social responsibility.

71% accepted 66% graduate $74,479 earnings

Rutgers's full profile

#39

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, underscoring its commitment to student success. With a median earnings figure of $101,817 ten years post-graduation, students can expect significant returns on their investment in education, preparing them for influential roles across various fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#40

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

University of Florida-Online stands out with an impressive 81% graduation rate and median earnings of $71,588 after ten years. This public university provides flexibility for students who want to balance their education with work or family commitments, making it an appealing choice for adult learners or those looking for a fully online experience.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Merrimack College

North Andover, MA · 3,916 students · Private nonprofit

70% accepted 71% graduate $75,584 earnings

Merrimack's full profile

#42

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University stands at the center of New York City, offering students an unparalleled urban experience alongside its academic rigor. With a 96% graduation rate, Columbia demonstrates an impressive level of student commitment and support, while median earnings of $102,491 after ten years reflect the value of a degree from this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#43

University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

Tacoma, WA · 4,185 students · Public

The University of Washington-Tacoma Campus, located in the vibrant city of Tacoma, WA, is home to a diverse student body of around 4,185 students. With a graduation rate of 63%, it’s a place where students can connect with hands-on learning experiences and community engagement that enhance their education. The school’s commitment to accessibility is evident, with 40% of its students receiving Pell Grants, making it a welcoming choice for many families.

83% accepted 63% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

#44

Seton Hall University

South Orange, NJ · 6,036 students · Private nonprofit

73% accepted 70% graduate $70,196 earnings

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University, located in New Haven, provides an elite educational experience for around 6,800 students. With an impressive graduation rate of 96%, students benefit from rigorous academics and extensive resources. Graduates earn a median income of $100,533 within ten years, underscoring Yale’s strong reputation for producing successful professionals across various fields.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL · 11,737 students · Private nonprofit

82% accepted 75% graduate $71,530 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#47

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA · 5,447 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on engineering and technology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute is home to over 5,400 students who are eager to innovate. The school’s impressive 89% graduation rate suggests that students here find a supportive environment and are well-prepared for the workforce. Median earnings of $103,470 ten years after graduation highlight the potential return on investment for those who choose to study here.

60% accepted 89% graduate $103,470 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#48

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT · 7,087 students · Private nonprofit

65% accepted 74% graduate $75,059 earnings

Sacred's full profile

#49

Rutgers University-Camden

Camden, NJ · 3,753 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 67%, Rutgers University-Camden is committed to helping its students succeed in a supportive environment. The university's location in Camden, NJ, offers a unique blend of urban experiences and a tight-knit campus community, making it an attractive option for those who thrive in a diverse setting.

66% accepted 67% graduate $74,479 earnings

Rutgers's full profile

#50

Roger Williams University

Bristol, RI · 3,946 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 68% graduate $70,266 earnings

The data reveals an intriguing pattern in the earnings of graduates from these programs. For instance, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology not only boasts top earnings at $143,372 but also maintains a high graduation rate of 96%. In contrast, MCPHS University, despite having a competitive earning figure of $125,557, falters with a graduation rate of just 63%. This suggests that while some schools may offer lucrative outcomes, support for student success is equally critical.

As you explore these 50 schools, consider how their financial data aligns with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, program fit, campus culture, and your financial situation. If a school has high earnings but also a high cost of attendance, weigh that against potential debt and your career aspirations. Look for a balance that meets your academic and financial goals.

Ultimately, this data sheds light on the journey from college to a stable life. For many families, choosing the right school means the difference between a manageable financial future and overwhelming debt. With careful consideration of the metrics that matter, students can make informed decisions that pave the way for lasting success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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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