Is University of Tennessee College of Law Worth It?
A comprehensive ROI analysis of Tennessee Law, including cost of attendance, salary outcomes, employment rates, and career placement data.
Key Financial Metrics
Total Cost
$163,607
Median Starting Salary
$86,740
Payback Period
10-13 years
Employment Outcomes
79%
Employment Rate
7%
BigLaw Rate
14%
Public Interest
4%
Clerkship Rate
Full ROI Analysis
University of Tennessee College of Law provides a reasonable return on investment that depends significantly on individual circumstances. With a median starting salary of $86,740 and an employment rate of 79%, graduates can build successful careers, though the path to recouping educational costs takes longer than at higher-ranked institutions.
The BigLaw placement rate of 7% means that top students can access high-paying positions, but the majority of graduates enter mid-size firms, government, and public interest roles. Tennessee Law's strength lies in its Knoxville connections and Tennessee legal community, where alumni loyalty and local reputation carry meaningful weight.
At $163,607 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 Tennessee and a clear practice area in mind will get the most value from a Tennessee Law degree.
Best For
- Knoxville-area legal practice
- Tennessee government roles
- Small to mid-size firm practice
- Public interest and legal aid
Key Considerations
- Total cost of $163,607 with moderate salary expectations
- BigLaw access limited to top of class
- Career outcomes strongest in Knoxville and Tennessee
- Scholarship negotiation critical for favorable ROI