Is Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of IU McKinney Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$146,424
Median Starting Salary
$57,738
Payback Period
15-20 years
Employment Outcomes
76%
Employment Rate
3%
BigLaw Rate
9%
Public Interest
2%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law presents a mixed return on investment that requires careful consideration of individual goals and financial circumstances. With a median starting salary of $57,738 and an employment rate of 76%, graduates face a longer timeline to recoup their educational investment compared to higher-ranked alternatives.
The school's value proposition centers on its deep roots in the Indianapolis legal community and connections throughout Indiana. For students committed to practicing in this specific market, IU McKinney Law's alumni network and local reputation provide advantages that rankings alone do not capture. Small firm and solo practice are common career paths for graduates.
At $146,424 total cost, the ROI depends heavily on scholarship funding and the graduate's willingness to practice in the local market. Students who secure significant scholarship support and have strong ties to Indiana can find meaningful value in a IU McKinney Law degree. Part-time and evening programs, where available, can further improve the financial equation.
Best For
- Indianapolis local practice
- Solo and small firm practice
- Indiana public sector careers
- Career changers with local ties
Key Considerations
- Longer payback period requires careful financial planning
- Career opportunities concentrated in Indianapolis area
- Scholarship funding essential for favorable ROI
- Bar passage rates should be evaluated carefully