Is Northeastern University School of Law Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of Northeastern Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$160,701
Median Starting Salary
$102,443
Payback Period
12-15 years
Employment Outcomes
83%
Employment Rate
12%
BigLaw Rate
14%
Public Interest
6%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
Northeastern University School of Law provides a mixed return on investment that depends significantly on individual circumstances. With a median starting salary of $102,443 and an employment rate of 83%, graduates can build successful careers, though the path to recouping educational costs takes longer than at higher-ranked institutions.
The BigLaw placement rate of 12% means that top students can access high-paying positions, but the majority of graduates enter mid-size firms, government, and public interest roles. Northeastern Law's strength lies in its Boston connections and Massachusetts legal community, where alumni loyalty and local reputation carry meaningful weight.
At $160,701 total cost, the ROI equation improves considerably with scholarship funding. Prospective students should carefully evaluate their scholarship offers and consider the school's bar passage rates and employment statistics before committing. Students with ties to Massachusetts and a clear practice area in mind will get the most value from a Northeastern Law degree.
Best For
- Boston-area legal practice
- Massachusetts government roles
- Small to mid-size firm practice
- Public interest and legal aid
Key Considerations
- Total cost of $160,701 with moderate salary expectations
- BigLaw access limited to top of class
- Career outcomes strongest in Boston and Massachusetts
- Scholarship negotiation critical for favorable ROI