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Best Value Criminal Justice and Corrections Colleges in Illinois

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

The University of Illinois Springfield delivers the state's most affordable Criminal Justice and Corrections program at just $8,916 net cost while producing graduates earning $37,748 annually. This combination creates an strong return on investment in a field where Illinois employs over 45,000 correctional officers and law enforcement professionals across Cook County alone. Public universities dominate the value market, with seven of the top ten spots offering sub-$14,000 costs. However, graduation rates tell a different story. While UIS maintains a solid 61.40% completion rate, some budget options like Chicago State struggle at 16.90%. The earnings spread from $29,443 to $39,663 reflects the field's varied career paths, from corrections officers to federal agents. Illinois benefits from major federal law enforcement presence in Chicago, plus the Cook County Department of Corrections, creating steady demand for qualified graduates. Students can access MAP Grant funding to further reduce costs at participating Illinois institutions.
33
Programs
$8,837 – $35,196
Net Price Range
$35,411
Avg. Program Earnings
51.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

33 Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,916 $37,748 $12,252 61.4% 82.0%
2 $9,477 $39,663 $11,320 19.6% 57.5%
3 $11,592 $37,821 $14,952 44.8% 75.0%
4 $10,133 $29,443 $12,754 16.9% 48.5%
5 $12,093 $33,993 $36,840 59.0% 84.1%
6 $12,313 $33,993 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
7 $13,696 $36,914 $12,922 55.0% 97.5%
8 $13,550 $34,847 $12,383 16.8% 62.7%
9 $16,284 $35,060 $37,000 64.6% 58.4%
10 $18,191 $39,153 $35,325 56.0% 68.0%
11 $18,370 $35,861 $37,882 62.6% 74.1%
12 $20,152 $38,289 $20,280 41.0% 88.3%
13 $18,470 $35,060 $13,546 40.0%
14 $18,996 $35,274 $16,021 66.3% 86.2%
15 $21,063 $36,401 $41,628 65.2% 76.0%
16 $18,992 $32,332 $28,220 58.3% 81.9%
17 $23,572 $38,289 $39,680 72.1% 75.1%
18 $22,048 $35,060 $28,400 40.6% 86.7%
19 $21,539 $27,823 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
20 $30,878 $34,650 $17,488 36.9% 43.0%
21 $35,196 $35,954 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%
22 $17,324 $35,740 42.7% 61.7%
23 $8,837 $26,892 59.1% 75.4%
24 $25,027 $30,910 53.3% 58.2%
25 $17,945 $37,470 61.1% 77.2%
26 $23,529 $34,290 51.0% 93.1%
27 $16,177 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
28 $21,270 $30,598 51.4% 94.1%
29 $16,381 $20,325 63.9% 70.7%
30 $21,386 $12,320 45.7% 91.3%
31 $14,093 $13,403 45.2% 68.0%
32 $16,774 $36,258 47.4% 93.0%
33 $21,814 $26,758 52.4% 64.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $21,000 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The gap stems from public versus private funding models. University of Illinois Springfield costs $8,916 thanks to state subsidies, while private institutions like Elmhurst University charge $21,063 net cost despite financial aid. Public schools receive taxpayer support that significantly reduces student costs. However, private schools often provide smaller class sizes and specialized resources that some students value despite higher prices.

How do Illinois graduation rates compare across different price points?

Higher costs don't guarantee better completion rates in Criminal Justice programs. Saint Xavier University achieves 59% graduation at $12,093 cost, while more expensive Elmhurst hits 65.20% at $21,063. Surprisingly, some budget options struggle significantly. Chicago State University graduates only 16.90% of students despite costing just $10,133. The data suggests institutional support matters more than tuition level.

Is the earnings potential worth the debt load for Illinois Criminal Justice graduates?

Most Illinois programs offer reasonable debt-to-earnings ratios, but outcomes vary considerably. University of Illinois Springfield graduates earn $37,748 with typical debt of $18,750, creating manageable payments. However, Chicago State graduates face $28,250 debt for $29,443 earnings, a concerning 96% debt-to-income ratio. Students should target programs where debt stays below 75% of expected first-year earnings.

Does location within Illinois affect job prospects for Criminal Justice graduates?

Chicago area schools offer proximity to the state's largest law enforcement agencies and court systems. Cook County alone employs thousands of correctional officers, while federal agencies maintain significant Chicago operations. However, graduates from schools like Western Illinois University in Macomb still achieve strong $37,821 earnings, suggesting statewide demand exists. Rural areas need sheriffs' deputies and state police, creating opportunities beyond urban centers.

Where do private nonprofit schools fit in Illinois Criminal Justice value rankings?

Private schools occupy middle positions, with Saint Xavier University offering the best private value at $12,093 net cost and $33,993 earnings. Lewis University and North Park University provide solid outcomes around $18,000 annual cost. These schools often feature smaller cohorts and internship connections that appeal to students seeking personalized attention. However, public universities generally deliver superior cost-effectiveness for Criminal Justice education in Illinois.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.