Criminal Justiceat Caldwell University
Graduates earn $22,939/yr in their first year — about 40.0% below the national Criminal Justice average. Base-case 10-year earnings $645K; scenarios range from $583K to $657K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Caldwell University
The financial data for Caldwell's Criminal Justice and Corrections program suggests graduates often enter roles that, while essential, typically have more structured, lower starting salaries compared to the national average for this major. This often points to a strong regional focus, with many graduates finding positions in local law enforcement, county corrections, or probation offices across North Jersey. These public sector jobs provide valuable community service and stability but usually offer a more gradual salary progression. The program likely emphasizes practical skills for these entry-level public service positions, preparing you for the immediate needs of agencies in the surrounding area. To maximize your long-term earning potential, consider internships with federal agencies or exploring specialized certifications in areas like forensic accounting or cybersecurity, which can open doors to higher-paying roles within the broader justice system.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Caldwell University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Criminal Justice
How Caldwell University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Caldwell University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Caldwell University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Criminal Justice offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Criminal Justice trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Criminal Justice at Caldwell University
How does Caldwell University's Criminal Justice program score?
This program scores 39/100 — on the lower end for Criminal Justice. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Caldwell University Criminal Justice graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.2x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
Why are Criminal Justice earnings lower at Caldwell University?
Lower starting pay at Caldwell University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.