Top 100Columbia, Missouri

Is University of Missouri School of Law Worth It?

A comprehensive ROI analysis of Missouri Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.

ROI Rating:Mixed

Key Financial Metrics

Total Cost

$217,723

Median Starting Salary

$106,012

Payback Period

10-13 years

Employment Outcomes

84%

Employment Rate

9%

BigLaw Rate

17%

Public Interest

5%

Clerkship Rate

Full ROI Analysis

University of Missouri School of Law provides a mixed return on investment that depends significantly on individual circumstances. With a median starting salary of $106,012 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 9% means that top students can access high-paying positions, but the majority of graduates enter mid-size firms, government, and public interest roles. Missouri Law's strength lies in its Columbia connections and Missouri legal community, where alumni loyalty and local reputation carry meaningful weight.

At $217,723 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 Missouri and a clear practice area in mind will get the most value from a Missouri Law degree.

Best For

  • Columbia-area legal practice
  • Missouri government roles
  • Small to mid-size firm practice
  • Public interest and legal aid

Key Considerations

  • Total cost of $217,723 with moderate salary expectations
  • BigLaw access limited to top of class
  • Career outcomes strongest in Columbia and Missouri
  • Scholarship negotiation critical for favorable ROI

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