CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
The Vibe Check
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice pulses with a mission-driven, gritty energy, attracting students passionate about justice and public service. The campus feels like a professional training ground where classroom debates on ethics and law directly intersect with the real-world complexities of New York City.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The college is a national powerhouse in criminal justice and public policy, offering rigorous programs taught by faculty who are often seasoned practitioners and researchers. Students gain hands-on experience through extensive research opportunities at institutes like the Center for Court Innovation and direct internships with city, state, and federal agencies.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in New York
Students are immersed in the vibrant energy of Manhattan, with world-class dining, theater, museums, and Central Park just a subway ride away. The campus's location provides easy access to internships and cultural experiences that are unavailable in most college towns, from catching a show in the Theater District to exploring the galleries of Chelsea.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($56,195):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, a heavily policed and generally safe area with a significant security presence. Like any major city campus, students are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling late at night on public transit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable access to internships and careers in NYC's justice and legal systems
- ✓ Extremely low tuition and net price for a high-value, specialized degree
- ✓ A focused, mission-driven campus community of like-minded students
- ✓ Strong faculty comprised of industry experts and leading researchers
Cons
- ✗ The 54.6% graduation rate is below the national average
- ✗ The specialized focus may feel limiting for students undecided on a career path
- ✗ The urban campus lacks a traditional 'college town' atmosphere and green space
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
CUNY John Jay is nationally renowned as a top institution for studies in criminal justice, forensic psychology, public safety, and legal studies. Its unique mission is to educate for justice in all its forms, leveraging its prime location in New York City to provide unparalleled access to courts, law enforcement agencies, and non-profits.
With an acceptance rate of 57.22%, John Jay is considered to be moderately selective. While the average SAT score is around 1140, the admissions committee places significant weight on an applicant's personal statement and their alignment with the college's mission of justice and public service.
Campus life is that of an urban commuter school, with a dynamic and diverse student body focused on their studies and professional goals. Student life revolves around academic clubs, honor societies, and student government, with the broader cultural and social offerings of New York City serving as the primary 'campus' for recreation and entertainment.
Yes, for students committed to careers in justice and public service, the value is outstanding. The combination of a low average net price ($3,046) and strong median earnings ($56,195) after graduation provides an excellent financial return and allows students to pursue mission-driven careers without significant debt.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 14,932
- In-State Tuition $7,470
- Out-of-State $15,420
- Zip Code 10019
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of just $3,046, John Jay offers an exceptional return on investment, making a premier New York City education accessible. The 10-year median earnings of $56,195, combined with the low tuition, means graduates can enter public service careers without the crushing debt burden often associated with private universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.