Is Marquette University Law School Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of Marquette Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$163,619
Median Starting Salary
$81,291
Payback Period
12-15 years
Employment Outcomes
84%
Employment Rate
13%
BigLaw Rate
11%
Public Interest
7%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
Marquette University Law School provides a mixed return on investment that depends significantly on individual circumstances. With a median starting salary of $81,291 and an employment rate of 84%, graduates can build successful careers, though the path to recouping educational costs takes longer than at higher-ranked institutions.
The BigLaw placement rate of 13% means that top students can access high-paying positions, but the majority of graduates enter mid-size firms, government, and public interest roles. Marquette Law's strength lies in its Milwaukee connections and Wisconsin legal community, where alumni loyalty and local reputation carry meaningful weight.
At $163,619 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 Wisconsin and a clear practice area in mind will get the most value from a Marquette Law degree.
Best For
- Milwaukee-area legal practice
- Wisconsin government roles
- Small to mid-size firm practice
- Public interest and legal aid
Key Considerations
- Total cost of $163,619 with moderate salary expectations
- BigLaw access limited to top of class
- Career outcomes strongest in Milwaukee and Wisconsin
- Scholarship negotiation critical for favorable ROI