Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $70,266/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$36,266/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $26,940 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law. | Doctoral | $53,219 | $122,459 |
Analysis
Roger Williams University School of Law delivers poor financial returns that make it difficult to justify the investment. The law program saddles graduates with over $122,000 in debt while producing median earnings of just $53,219 - creating a debt-to-income ratio that will strain most graduates' budgets for decades.
The school's overall 10-year earnings figure reflects graduates from all programs, but law dominates the school's offerings. With lawyer salaries starting around $53,000, you face the reality of loan payments consuming a substantial portion of your income in Rhode Island's competitive legal market. The state's small size limits job opportunities, and many graduates compete for positions at small firms or public sector roles that rarely offer the salaries needed to comfortably service six-figure debt loads.
This school makes financial sense only if you secure significant merit aid or have family financial support that reduces your borrowing needs. Even then, the regional job market constraints mean you should have realistic expectations about earning potential. Consider Roger Williams only if you plan to practice in Rhode Island long-term and have thoroughly researched local salary ranges for your intended practice area.
You should look elsewhere if you need to finance most of your legal education through loans. The debt burden relative to expected earnings creates a challenging financial situation that could limit your career flexibility and personal financial goals for many years after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roger Williams University School of Law worth the debt?
With median debt of $26,940 and 10-year earnings of $70,266, Roger Williams Law offers a relatively low debt burden compared to most law schools. The debt-to-income ratio is manageable, making it one of the more affordable law school options.
What is the average salary after graduating from Roger Williams University School of Law?
Roger Williams Law graduates earn a median of $70,266 ten years after graduation. This is below the national average for law school graduates, but the lower debt load helps offset the modest earnings.
Does Roger Williams University School of Law have good job outcomes?
Roger Williams Law graduates face challenges in the competitive legal market, with earnings of $70,266 reflecting limited access to high-paying firm positions. The school's regional focus in Rhode Island and New England may limit broader career opportunities.
How does Roger Williams University School of Law compare to other law schools financially?
Roger Williams Law stands out for its low debt burden at $26,940, well below the typical law school debt of $100,000+. However, the trade-off is lower earning potential compared to higher-ranked programs.