The University of Nebraska College of Law has been named the No. 8 Best Value Law School in the nation by National Jurist and preLaw magazine in the publication’s 2026 Best Value Law Schools rankings.
The annual ranking evaluates law schools using factors that extend beyond tuition costs, including bar passage rates, employment outcomes, student debt levels, and cost of living. Nebraska Law rose from No. 11 to No. 8 this year based in part on stronger year-over-year graduate employment and bar exam outcomes, both exceeding 90%.
The recognition reflects what has long distinguished Nebraska Law: an exceptional legal education that combines academic excellence, real-world experience, strong career outcomes, and affordability.
In an interview with National Jurist, Dean Richard Moberly highlighted Nebraska Law’s commitment to providing students with both opportunity and value.
“We charge a very low tuition, and on top of that, our alumni have been incredibly supportive in terms of scholarships for our students,” Moberly said. “We have a robust scholarship program so that we can attract the best and the brightest, and of course, our career development program has connections throughout the state and the country to help our students land jobs when they graduate.”
Nebraska Law focuses on preparing lawyers who are ready to serve their communities and succeed in a rapidly changing profession. Students benefit from a rigorous academic foundation, hands-on learning opportunities through clinics and externships, and individualized support from faculty and staff who are invested in their success.
The College’s affordable tuition, scholarship support, and strong employment outcomes enable graduates to pursue careers based on their interests and aspirations rather than the burden of excessive debt.
“We think this is the best place in America for students who are interested in public interest or public service law because they get great outcomes,” Moberly said. “They'll pass the bar, get a job, and be able to take that job as a prosecutor or public defender or work for a nonprofit because their debt is low.”
For Moberly, the ranking ultimately reflects something more important than affordability metrics alone.
“It’s not just about the number, although those are competitive and terrific,” he said. “But our students have the careers that they want. They don't reach the end of their law school career and say, ‘Gosh, I'd really love to be a public defender, but my debt is too high for me to take that job.’ I think being able to pursue your dreams is the goal of education.”
