Historically Black Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, is the first HBCU to enter into 3+3 partnership with the University of Akron School of Law. The agreement allows qualified students to earn their baccalaureate and J.D. degrees in six years instead of seven.
To apply to the Akron Law program, students must have completed at least 90 credits toward their bachelor’s degrees and be in good academic, financial, and disciplinary standing at Central State University. They also need to have a GPA of at least 3.45, an LSAT score of 151 or the GRE equivalent and satisfy all of Akron Law’s character and fitness standards. Central State is reviewing the school’s curriculum to see which majors would be applicable for law school admission.
The law school already had 3+3 programs in effect at five other colleges, including Kent State, Walsh, Mount Union, and Youngstown State universities in Ohio and Robert Morris in Pittsburgh.
“I am excited that we are creating more opportunities for students to study law on an accelerated path,” said Emily Janoski-Haehlen, dean of the University of Akron School of Law. “The journey to a legal education is a big commitment and the more pathways we create for students, the more barriers we knock down that might stand in their way. Our 3+3 pathways offer financial savings, early networking opportunities, and a streamlined path to careers in law.”