Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • New York, NY & Bronx, NY
When students choose between CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice and CUNY Lehman College, they're comparing two accessible CUNY institutions with different academic missions. Both schools serve diverse New York populations at remarkably affordable prices, but John Jay specializes in criminal justice while Lehman offers broader health and business programs.
The financial profiles are nearly identical, making program fit the decisive factor.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$11,000
federal loans
$10,950
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$16,130
borrowed by parents
$11,955
borrowed by parents
John Jay is predominantly focused on Security & Protective Services, with Criminal Justice and Corrections producing 1,582 graduates annually — the largest program by far. Other top programs include Clinical Psychology (481) and Criminology (230).
Lehman has a health sciences focus with broader program diversity: Business Administration (285), Psychology (268), and Health and Medical Administrative Services (228). These different concentrations shape career trajectories and help explain the modest earnings differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing criminal justice, public safety, or law enforcement careers, John Jay delivers specialized programs at an exceptional value of $3,046/year. Lehman offers broader opportunities in health sciences, business, and social sciences at slightly higher cost but with modestly higher earnings potential.
Both represent outstanding values within the CUNY system, with nearly identical affordability profiles. The data shows no clear financial winner — John Jay's lower cost balances Lehman's slightly higher earnings.
The right choice depends on your career goals, program interests, and whether you prefer specialized criminal justice focus or broader academic options. Both schools serve their missions exceptionally well.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
