CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Acceptance rate
57.1%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$15,420
In-state $7,470
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
11,942
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
36.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 53.7%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice, located in New York City, is a distinguished institution known for its strong emphasis on criminal justice, public service, and social equity. Established in 1964, John Jay College has evolved into a premier center for the study of justice-related fields, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its unique focus on criminal justice not only attracts students aspiring to pursue careers in law enforcement, legal studies, and forensic science, but also those interested in understanding the broader implications of justice in society. The college's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Educating for Justice," which reflects its commitment to fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement among its students.
The campus culture at John Jay College is vibrant and dynamic, bolstered by a diverse student body representing various backgrounds and experiences. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and encourages a more comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system. The college boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research labs, and a dedicated library that supports students' academic endeavors. Notably, the faculty at John Jay is comprised of accomplished scholars and practitioners, providing students with real-world insights and mentorship. Furthermore, the college's strategic location in Manhattan allows students to access numerous internships and job opportunities within the bustling criminal justice sector, enhancing their employability upon graduation. With a commitment to academic excellence and social justice, CUNY John Jay College remains a leading institution for those dedicated to the pursuit of justice and equity in society.
Analysis of CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice Data
The data from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveals several significant trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student demographics.
One of the most striking aspects is the consistent rise in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, in-state tuition increased from $6,059 to $7,470, while out-of-state tuition rose from $12,569 to $15,420. This rise in tuition may be a contributing factor to the fluctuations in student enrollment numbers. For instance, undergraduate enrollment peaked at 13,746 in 2020 but saw a drop to 12,061 by 2023. This decline could reflect the increasing financial burden on students or broader trends in higher education enrollment amid economic challenges.
Additionally, the graduation rates show a positive trend, with the on-time graduation rate increasing from approximately 21.2% in 2013 to about 32.7% in 2023. This improvement may indicate enhanced academic support and resources for students, fostering a more conducive learning environment. The 150% graduation rate also reflects a notable increase, suggesting that while more students are graduating, there is still a significant portion who may take longer than the standard time frame to complete their degrees.
Furthermore, the gender ratio among students has shifted slightly over the years. The percentage of female undergraduate students has risen from around 56% in 2013 to approximately 63% in 2023, which aligns with national trends in higher education where more women are enrolling and graduating than men.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, but a slight increase in this ratio to 19 students per faculty member in 2021 could raise concerns about the availability of personalized academic support for students. Overall, these data points suggest that while CUNY John Jay College is making strides in graduation rates, the rising cost of attendance and shifting demographics may present future challenges for the institution.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 8 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 10 mi
- Also known as
- John Jay, John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Karol V. Mason (President)
- Phone
- 2122378000
- Address
- 524 W 59th Street, New York, NY 10019
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 37.8%, women 42.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at CUNY John Jay College
The admission statistics from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveal a notable trend over the years, showcasing the challenges and changes in the college's admission landscape. Starting from 2009, the male admission rate was approximately 74.91%, while the female admission rate was around 79.49%. Over the years, both rates have decreased significantly. By 2023, the male admission rate had dropped to about 43.63%, and the female rate to approximately 55.53%. This decline indicates an increasing level of competition for entry into the college, reflecting broader trends in higher education where more students are applying to institutions, but acceptance rates are shrinking.
The enrollment numbers have also fluctuated, with a peak of 2,872 students in 2011, followed by a steady decline, reaching a low of 1,489 in 2016. Interestingly, despite the drop in enrollment, the number of applicants has surged, culminating in over 12,000 applications by 2021. The consistently high denial rates, which exceeded 12,000 in recent years, highlight the intense competition and perhaps the college's strategic shift towards admitting a more selective cohort.
Additionally, the figures reveal a significant number of deferred admissions, indicating that a substantial portion of students may need more time to prepare before starting their college journey. This trend could be attributed to various factors, including financial constraints, personal circumstances, or the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students' decision-making processes.
In conclusion, CUNY John Jay College is witnessing a transformative period in its admissions process, characterized by increased competition and changing applicant demographics. It will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the future, particularly as higher education continues to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities2 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Public Affairs1 programs#55▼6
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 8% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions and Test Scores at CUNY John Jay College
The data on admissions at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice presents an interesting narrative over the years, particularly regarding SAT scores and the percentage of applicants who submitted their scores. Notably, from 2007 to 2023, the college has seen fluctuations in both the number of applicants submitting SAT scores and the corresponding score ranges for admitted students.
In the earlier years, such as 2007, nearly all admitted students submitted SAT scores, with a remarkable 99% submission rate. This trend continued consistently until 2010, when there was a significant drop to 44%. However, this was a temporary dip, as the percentage of applicants submitting scores rebounded to nearly full participation by 2012, indicating a renewed interest in standardized testing among prospective students.
The score ranges also reveal a gradual upward trend in the lower and upper bounds of the SAT reading and math scores. For example, the 25th percentile scores increased from 430 in 2007 to 510 by 2023, illustrating a competitive admission environment. This upward movement aligns with national trends in higher education, where colleges are increasingly selecting students based on stronger academic performances.
Moreover, the data highlights a significant increase in the overall number of applicants over the years, peaking at 2,027 in 2020. This surge could be attributed to various factors, including the growing recognition of CUNY John Jay College as a leading institution for criminal justice studies and the increased focus on social justice and public safety careers.
Overall, the trends in admissions data reflect a dynamic landscape at CUNY John Jay College, characterized by increasing competitiveness and an evolving approach to standardized testing in the college admissions process.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
19,238 applicants in 2025, 57.1% admitted
10,987 admitted 8,251 not admitted Yield 19.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration · Master's147 (1% international)
- Public Administration · Master's120 (3% international)
- Forensic Psychology · Master's100 (5% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's98 (8% international)
- International Relations and Affairs · Master's42 (5% international)
- Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other · Master's33 (12% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduates from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2023
The 2023 graduation data from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveals some interesting trends across various programs. Notably, the field of Criminal Justice, particularly in Law Enforcement Administration, continues to attract significant interest, with a substantial number of bachelor’s graduates. This suggests a strong demand for professionals in law enforcement, reflecting ongoing societal concerns over safety and crime.
The data also indicates a notable presence of international students within specialized programs. For instance, the Forensic Psychology and Public Administration programs have a mix of domestic and international graduates, highlighting the college's appeal to a global audience. This is particularly relevant in today’s context, where the fields of psychology and public administration are increasingly recognized for their importance in addressing social issues and governance challenges.
Interestingly, the Computer and Information Systems Security program stands out with a considerable number of graduates. Given the rise in cyber threats and the growing importance of data security in various sectors, this trend aligns with the increasing focus on technology and cybersecurity in educational curricula, preparing students for critical roles in safeguarding information assets.
Moreover, the data reflects a diversity of disciplines, with several graduates in areas such as Sociology, Legal Studies, and Forensic Science. This breadth of academic offerings indicates a comprehensive approach to education at John Jay, catering to various interests and career paths, which is essential in a world where interdisciplinary knowledge is vital for tackling complex issues.
Overall, the graduation statistics provide valuable insights into the shifting educational landscape and workforce development priorities, particularly in fields related to criminal justice, public safety, and technology.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $44,808-$63,372 | ||
| Securities Services Administration/Management. | $44,808-$63,372 | ||
| Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other. | $44,808-$63,372 | ||
| Fire Services Administration. | $53,840 | ||
| Fire Science/Fire-fighting. | $53,840 | ||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | $85,873 | ||
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | $41,136-$89,436 | ||
| Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation. | $41,136-$89,436 | ||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | $41,136-$89,436 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Psychology. | $42,317-$51,954 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||
| Criminology. | $42,613 | ||
| Economics, General. | $47,033 | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | $64,561 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $43,615 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $46,336 | ||
| Social Sciences, Other. | $44,187 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $48,668 | ||
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - | ||
| Public Administration. | $50,714-$73,031 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $55,386 | ||
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | $42,707 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $57,214 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $37,710 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology. | $35,790 | ||
| Toxicology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | $35,803 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latin American Studies. | - | ||
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
13,763 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 81.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 8,099
- First-year undergraduates 2,086
- Graduate students 1,821
- Transfers and others 1,757
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (11,942)
Data insights
Student Demographics at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2023
The student demographic data from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice for the year 2023 reveals notable trends in enrollment and gender distribution. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 1,871 students, with a significant majority being female at 68.8%, compared to 31.2% male. This trend continues across the other categories, with undergraduate juniors having a similar gender ratio of 62.3% female and 37.7% male among 8,509 students, while undergraduate transfer students show a slightly higher male representation at 40.7% compared to 59.3% female among 1,346 students.
Graduate students, totaling 1,860, show a gender distribution that is also skewed towards females, with 63.7% female and 36.3% male. Interestingly, the overall enrollment illustrates a strong presence of female students across all categories, which is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has been steadily increasing over the years.
The data also highlights the need for further analysis concerning racial and ethnic diversity among the student body, as specific breakdowns for undergraduates and graduates are not fully available. With rising discussions surrounding equity and representation in college environments, it is essential for institutions like John Jay College to address these aspects to foster an inclusive community that reflects the diversity of the society it serves.
In summary, the demographic data for CUNY John Jay College indicates a predominance of female students across various categories, while also hinting at the necessity for focused efforts on understanding and enhancing racial and ethnic diversity within the student population.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at CUNY John Jay College
The age demographic data of students at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveals significant insights into the student population. The data indicates a predominance of younger students, particularly those aged 18-21, who account for a substantial portion of the undergraduate body. Specifically, about 55% of undergraduate males and 69% of undergraduate females are in the 18-21 age range. This trend aligns with national statistics showing that a majority of college students tend to enroll directly after high school, which is reflective of the college's appeal to traditional-aged students.
The enrollment figures also highlight the underrepresentation of older students, particularly those aged 35 and above. For instance, students aged 30-34 make up only about 3% of the total population, while those over 65 represent less than 1%. This lack of representation among older age groups may suggest barriers to entry, such as financial constraints or the challenges of balancing education with career and family responsibilities.
Interestingly, the data shows a significant gender disparity among both undergraduate and graduate students. While male students appear to dominate in the younger age brackets, the female population tends to increase in the graduate categories, particularly for those aged 22-24 and 25-29. This shift may reflect a growing trend of women pursuing higher education, which aligns with broader societal changes promoting gender equality in education.
Overall, the age and gender demographics at CUNY John Jay College reflect ongoing trends in higher education, indicating a youthful, diverse student body with unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing targeted support services that cater to the varying needs of students across different age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
411 in 2025 · 2.9% in 2016
77 in 2025 · 5.7% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Presence at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
The data regarding international students at CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveals a fluctuating yet generally increasing trend in their representation over the years. In the undergraduate sector, the percentage of international students rose from 1.93% in 2004 to a peak of 3.67% in 2006, before experiencing fluctuations and settling at 3.41% in 2023. This increase highlights the college's growing appeal to international students, possibly due to its focus on criminal justice, a field that attracts students from diverse backgrounds seeking specialized education.
For graduate students, the percentage of international enrollment has also shown a gradual increase, reaching 5.67% in 2016, before dropping to 4.35% in 2023. The peak in 2016 might be reflective of broader trends in higher education, where certain years witness increased international mobility, possibly due to global events or changes in visa regulations affecting student enrollment patterns.
Overall, while the representation of international students at John Jay College has seen ups and downs, the consistent presence of these students enriches the academic environment and promotes cultural diversity. Given current global trends, such as rising geopolitical tensions and changes in immigration policies, institutions like John Jay may need to adapt their recruitment strategies to maintain and potentially increase international student enrollment in the coming years. This dynamic landscape emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive environments that support students from around the world.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$37,680
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $15,420
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,470
- Room and board
- $22,260
- Graduate tuition
- $20,962
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 11% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 13%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$477M
Expenses$320M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · City University of New York Athletic Conference
City University of New York Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 20 |
| Volleyball | 17 | 16 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Cross Country | 6 | 12 |
| Tennis | 9 | 7 |
| Swimming | - | 9 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 21 |
| Volleyball | 17 | 16 |
| Basketball | 18 | 13 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Cross Country | 10 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | 6 | 9 |
| Swimming | - | 14 |
| Rifle | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 23 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 14 |
| Basketball | 16 | 13 |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Swimming | - | 13 |
| Tennis | 6 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| Rifle | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 2.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 2.9 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 3.0 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 3.0 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 10.0 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 30.5 mi
U.S. News #44
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 42.8 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 45.7 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Stony Brook UniversityStony Brook · 46.5 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice:
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News, Columbia is an Ivy League research university located in Manhattan, known for its prestigious programs across various fields.
-
New York University - With a rank of 35, NYU is a leading global university located in the heart of New York City, offering a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
Barnard College - Ranked 11th, Barnard is a highly respected women’s liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, known for its rigorous academic standards and empowering environment for women.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - This university ranks 76th and specializes in engineering, technology, and management, providing students with a strong foundation in STEM fields.
-
Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Ranked 40th, Rutgers is the largest university in New Jersey, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on research.
These institutions offer a diverse range of academic opportunities and are well-regarded for their contributions to education and research.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at CUNY John Jay College
The crime statistics from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice reveal a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents over the last decade. Examining the data, it is notable that the year 2017 recorded the highest crime rate, with 2.45 incidents per 1000 students. This spike could be indicative of broader societal issues at that time, such as rising crime rates in urban areas, which often affect college campuses.
In contrast, 2022 saw a significant drop in crime rates, plummeting to just 0.13 incidents per 1000 students. This decrease might suggest improvements in campus safety measures or a general decline in crime rates due to various factors, including enhanced law enforcement strategies or student awareness programs. However, the recent uptick in 2023, leading to a rate of 1.57 incidents per 1000 students, highlights the ongoing challenges that institutions face in maintaining safety and security.
The breakdown of specific crimes further emphasizes the need for focused interventions. For example, the data indicates instances of gun-related arrests and domestic violence, which are critical areas of concern that require targeted educational and preventive measures.
Overall, these statistics serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive strategies to ensure student safety on campus. The fluctuations in crime rates reflect not only the college's internal policies but also the external societal issues that influence crime dynamics. For more details on how to calculate crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice include Eric Adams (Former mayor of New York City), Pauley Perrette (Actress who played Abby Sciuto in NCIS) and Jimmy Iovine (Co-founder of Interscope Records).
-
Eric Adams 1960–
Former mayor of New York City
-
Pauley Perrette 1969–
Actress who played Abby Sciuto in NCIS
-
Jimmy Iovine 1953–
Co-founder of Interscope Records
-
Aaron Lohr 1976–
Retired actor and singer
-
Dorothy Uhnak 1930–2006
Novelist and former police officer
-
Adam Saleh 1993–
YouTuber, singer and crossover boxer
-
Claudia de la Cruz 1980–
Activist, 2024 PSL presidential nominee
-
Fred Heineman 1929–2010
Former police officer and North Carolina congressman
-
Henry Lee 1938–2026
Chinese-born American forensic scientist
More alumni (14, by field)
Politics and law
-
Elvin Nimrod 1943–
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Grenada
-
Dimal Basha 1979–
Sixth Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo
-
Alton R. Waldon 1936–2023
Former U.S. Representative and judge from New York
-
Scott Stringer 1960–
44th New York City Comptroller
-
Edward Thomas Brady 1943–
Former North Carolina Supreme Court associate justice
-
Kenneth P. Thompson 1966–2016
District Attorney of Kings County, New York
-
Jeffrey Mark Deskovic 1973–
Wrongly convicted man turned attorney
-
John Timoney 1948–2016
Former Chief of the Miami Police Department
Arts and media
-
Eva Norvind 1944–2006
Norwegian-born Mexican actress, director and sex therapist
-
Kimberly Amato 1976–
Actress and author
-
Jamel Shabazz 1960–
Street and documentary photographer
-
Jennings Michael Burch 1941–2013
Writer, author of They Cage the Animals at Night
-
Shermain Jeremy 1983–
Antiguan singer and beauty pageant titleholder
Other fields
-
Vicki Shiran 1947–2004
Israeli criminologist, poet and Mizrahi activist
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.