Criminal Justice 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 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 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 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 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 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% |
Criminal Justice Career Guide
See the full career breakdown for Criminal Justice — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Columbia College and 468 other schools.
Compare & Explore
Criminal Justice Overview
Criminal Justice 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.