Is University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of Maryland Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$168,055
Median Starting Salary
$72,061
Payback Period
10-13 years
Employment Outcomes
83%
Employment Rate
17%
BigLaw Rate
13%
Public Interest
6%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law provides a reasonable return on investment that depends significantly on individual circumstances. With a median starting salary of $72,061 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 17% means that top students can access high-paying positions, but the majority of graduates enter mid-size firms, government, and public interest roles. Maryland Law's strength lies in its Baltimore connections and Maryland legal community, where alumni loyalty and local reputation carry meaningful weight.
At $168,055 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 Maryland and a clear practice area in mind will get the most value from a Maryland Law degree.
Best For
- Baltimore-area legal practice
- Maryland government roles
- Small to mid-size firm practice
- Public interest and legal aid
Key Considerations
- Total cost of $168,055 with moderate salary expectations
- BigLaw access limited to top of class
- Career outcomes strongest in Baltimore and Maryland
- Scholarship negotiation critical for favorable ROI