Criminal Justice at Merced College
enrolling 9,677 students in Merced, CA.
Program Analysis
Merced College's Criminal Justice graduates start at $31,050/yr, trailing the $39,484 national average by 21%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
The 179.1x 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 27% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Criminal Justice graduates.
Ranked #114 out of 469 programs, Merced College's Criminal Justice program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $31,050 to $41,676 shows 34% 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
What can you do with a Criminal Justice credential from Merced College? Our career guide maps every occupation path with earnings and growth data.
Compare & Explore
Criminal Justice Overview
Criminal Justice at Other Schools
Other Majors at Merced College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.