Is Southern University Law Center Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of Southern Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$127,065
Median Starting Salary
$71,645
Payback Period
12-16 years
Employment Outcomes
75%
Employment Rate
4%
BigLaw Rate
18%
Public Interest
3%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
Southern University Law Center presents a mixed return on investment that requires careful consideration of individual goals and financial circumstances. With a median starting salary of $71,645 and an employment rate of 75%, 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 Baton Rouge legal community and connections throughout Louisiana. For students committed to practicing in this specific market, Southern Law's alumni network and local reputation provide advantages that rankings alone do not capture. The school's public interest placement is a notable strength.
At $127,065 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 Louisiana can find meaningful value in a Southern Law degree. Part-time and evening programs, where available, can further improve the financial equation.
Best For
- Baton Rouge local practice
- Solo and small firm practice
- Louisiana public sector careers
- Public interest and legal aid
- Career changers with local ties
Key Considerations
- Longer payback period requires careful financial planning
- Career opportunities concentrated in Baton Rouge area
- Scholarship funding essential for favorable ROI
- Bar passage rates should be evaluated carefully