Criminal Justice at Iowa Central Community College
a smaller institution with 3,107 students in Fort Dodge, IA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $39,121/yr, roughly in line with the $39,484 national median for Criminal Justice. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 49.4x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 36% task exposure — and the 25% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Criminal Justice graduates.
With first-year pay of $39,121 far exceeding the $14,250 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #205 out of 469 programs, Iowa Central Community College's Criminal Justice offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $39,121 to $51,828 shows 32% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
With 17 registered apprenticeships mapped to Criminal Justice, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
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
From day-one roles to senior positions, Criminal Justice careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering criminal justice & public safety.
Compare & Explore
Criminal Justice Overview
Criminal Justice at Other Schools
Other Majors at Iowa Central Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.