Criminology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
54 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
54
Optimistic
54
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,076/yr (-5% vs median)
AI Risk High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (122,700 openings/yr)
ROI 16.1x earnings multiple (4.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #7 of 111 Criminology programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Studying Criminology at NC State places you in a program with strong regional ties, often funneling graduates into vital roles across North Carolina's public safety and justice systems. Your earnings trajectory here reflects the nature of these careers, which, while deeply impactful and stable, often operate within structured public sector salary scales, differing from private industry averages. You'll find graduates contributing to local law enforcement, state agencies, and community support organizations throughout the Triangle area and beyond, leveraging the program's strong connections. The noted AI risk isn't about specific job elimination, but rather the evolving landscape of administrative and data-intensive tasks within the field. Roles involving routine data collection, initial report generation, and even some analytical support are increasingly being augmented by AI tools. To best position yourself, actively seek internships with agencies like the Raleigh Police Department or NC State Bureau of Investigation, and focus on developing complementary skills in advanced data analysis, policy development, or specialized forensics that AI cannot easily replicate.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Criminology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $583K $573K $517K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 16.4x 16.1x 14.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.6x 4.5x 4.1x
Probability of Field Employment 34% 30% 22%
DegreeOutlook Score 54 54 41

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,580
Out-of-state: $127,068 (4.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,374
7.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$64,069
83% growth from Year 1

About North Carolina State University at Raleigh

A 40% acceptance rate puts North Carolina State University at Raleigh in competitive admissions territory, serving a student body of 26,389 in Raleigh, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at North Carolina State University at Raleigh →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Psychologists, all other $117,580/yr
Sociologists $101,690/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Criminology at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 54/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Criminology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
At 54/100, North Carolina State University at Raleigh's Criminology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Criminology at North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
The 50% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →