08-04-2025
Bluefield State University announces partnership for accelerated law degree program
BLUEFIELD, WV (WVNS) — Bluefield State University announced a partnership with the University of Akron School of Law for an accelerated degree program.
According to a press release, Bluefield State University (BSU) partnered with the University of Akron (UA) School of Law to create an accelerated way for students seeking legal careers at BSU.
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The press release stated that the accelerated '3+3' program will help students at BSU to get their bachelor's degree and Juris Doctor (J.D.) in just six years instead of the usual seven, as students often earn their bachelor's degree in four years and then their Juris Doctor degree in another three years.
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.
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.
Dr. Tamara Ferguson | Dean of the College of Arts, Education and Social Sciences at Bluefield State University
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We are pleased to offer affordable pathways to law school and a legal career for Bluefield State students. 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.
Emily Janoski-Haehlen | Akron Law Dean
The partnership will aid students at BSU in various ways, such as helping students save money on tuition and living expenses due to having one less year of undergraduate study, as well as being able to join the workforce before any of their peers who took a traditional path. The opportunity to join the workforce before their peers will help the students' earning potential in the long run and give their legal careers a head start.
According to the press release, BSU students who qualify for the program can apply to Akron Law during their third year by applying through the Law School Admissions Council ( and taking the LSAT or the GRE exam.
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Students who are accepted for the program can complete their last year of undergraduate requirements by finishing their first-year law courses.
The press release stated that other institutions that partnered with Akron Law on 3+3 programs include 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.
Any students at Bluefield State University who may be interested in the 3+3 program are encouraged to contact their academic advisors for additional information on the application process and eligibility requirements.
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