BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Bluefield State University announces a groundbreaking partnership with The University of Akron (UA) School of Law, establishing an accelerated pathway for BSU students pursuing legal careers. This innovative “3+3” program will allow Bluefield State students to earn both their bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor (J.D.) in just six years instead of the traditional seven.
“This groundbreaking agreement between Bluefield State University and The University of Akron School of Law creates an incredible opportunity for our students to accelerate their path to a law degree,” said Dr. Tamara Ferguson, dean of the College of Arts, Education and Social Sciences at Bluefield State. “By streamlining the traditional timeline, this program enables students to save time and costs while receiving a top-tier legal education. We are thrilled to offer this pathway to our aspiring legal professionals and look forward to seeing them make a meaningful impact in the field of law.”
In a more traditional pathway, students typically earn a bachelor’s degree in four years and then take another three years to complete a Juris Doctor degree.
The partnership offers substantial benefits for Bluefield State students, including significant financial savings on tuition and living expenses by eliminating a full year of undergraduate study. Additionally, students will enter the workforce a year earlier than their peers following traditional paths, increasing their long-term earning potential and giving them a head start in their legal careers.
Under the program, qualifying Bluefield State students will apply to Akron Law during their third year by applying through the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC.org) and taking either the LSAT or GRE exam. Upon acceptance, students will fulfill their final year of undergraduate requirements through successful completion of their first-year law courses.
“We are pleased to offer affordable pathways to law school and a legal career for Bluefield State students,” said Akron Law Dean Emily Janoski-Haehlen. “As a school of opportunity, we aim to create as many chances as possible for students to become lawyers. This partnership, which reduces part of the financial barrier, is an excellent starting point.”
Bluefield State University joins a select group of institutions partnering with Akron Law on 3+3 programs, including Franciscan University, Wilberforce University, Central State University, Kent State University, Walsh University, the University of Mount Union, Indiana Tech University, Robert Morris University, Youngstown State University, John Carroll University, and UA.
Bluefield State students interested in the program should contact their academic advisors for more information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
