Criminal Justice and Corrections at Columbia College
serving 5,359 students in Columbia, MO.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $47,941 at Columbia College come in 21% above the national median of $39,484 for Criminal Justice and Corrections programs.
With a 10.3x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 0% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Criminal Justice and Corrections career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
At $26,418 against $47,941/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #318 ranking among 469 Criminal Justice and Corrections programs places Columbia College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The 17 apprenticeship pathways connected to Criminal Justice and Corrections reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
Earnings Overview
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Criminal Justice and Corrections graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managers, all other | $136,550 | +4.5% | 53% |
| First-line supervisors of police and detectives | $105,980 | +2.9% | 67% |
| Detectives and criminal investigators | $93,580 | -0.7% | 47% |
About Criminal Justice and Corrections Careers
Your career in criminal justice often begins on the front lines, where demand is steady. You might start as a security guard, patrolling a corporate campus, monitoring surveillance feeds, and logging daily activity. Many graduates pursue a path as a police or sheriff's patrol officer, where your "office" is a patrol car and your daily tasks involve responding to calls, community engagement, and detailed incident reporting back at the station.
Read the full Criminal Justice and Corrections career guide →
Compare & Explore
Criminal Justice and Corrections Overview
Criminal Justice and Corrections at Other Schools
Other Majors at Columbia College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.