Criminology at Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
26
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,370/yr (-12% vs median)
AI Risk
High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (122,700 openings/yr)
ROI
10.0x earnings multiple (4.2x out-of-state)
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 | $451K | $456K | $431K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 9.9x | 10.0x | 9.4x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.2x | 4.2x | 4.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 34% | 30% | 22% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 38 | 37 | 26 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$45,744
Out-of-state: $108,000 (4.2x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,815
9.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$40,742
26% growth from Year 1
About Western Kentucky University
With 97% of applicants admitted, Western Kentucky University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 12,267 students in Bowling Green, KY.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Kentucky University →Top Career Paths
Managers, all other
$136,550/yr
Psychologists, all other
$117,580/yr
Sociologists
$101,690/yr
Compare & Explore
Criminology at Other Schools
Other Majors at Western Kentucky University
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 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Criminology at Western Kentucky University?
At 37/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Criminology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Criminology at Western Kentucky University?
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 →