School of Law partners with Westminster College for 3+3 program

The University of Akron School of Law is launching a 3+3 program in partnership with Westminster College in Pennsylvania, allowing students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a law degree in just six years.

This marks Westminster’s first law school partnership in Ohio. Under the agreement, eligible Westminster students will complete their first three years of undergraduate study at Westminster, then transfer to Akron Law for their final undergraduate credits while simultaneously beginning their law coursework.

Traditionally, students spend four years earning a bachelor’s degree followed by three years in law school. The 3+3 model, one of Westminster’s Bachelor’s Degree Plus programs, shaves a full year off that timeline, saving students both time and money.

To qualify, students must be in good academic standing and must complete all major and general education requirements by the end of their junior year. They are also required to submit a completed application to Akron Law and take either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE) no later than February of that year. Students who meet all requirements will receive automatic admission to Akron Law under the terms of the agreement.

“This program opens the door for our students to take the next step in their legal education sooner — and with less financial burden,” said Dr. James Rhoads, chair of Westminster’s Department of Political Science and adviser to the Pre-Law Society. “It’s an incredible opportunity for motivated students to jump-start their law careers at a respected institution, and we’re proud to partner with Akron Law to help make that possible.”

This new partnership complements Westminster College’s robust pre-law program, which is designed to guide students in making informed decisions about pursuing law school and legal careers. The pre-law curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive writing and an understanding of society and human behavior — all essential for success in law school and beyond.

“This partnership reflects Akron Law’s commitment to expanding access to legal education through innovative pathways,” said Barbara DiGiacomo, associate dean for administration and enrollment management at Akron Law. “We look forward to welcoming Westminster students and supporting them as they begin their legal careers.”

This is Akron Law's 14th 3+3 program with universities in the U.S. Akron Law also offers a variety of 3+3 programs to University of Akron undergraduate students. Learn more here.

Akron Law is accredited by the American Bar Association and is located in Akron, Ohio, just 90 minutes from Westminster’s campus in New Wilmington, Pa.

For more information about the partnership, please call 724-946-7255 or email jrhoads@westminster.edu.

Media contact: Cristine Boyd; 330-972-6476; cboyd@uakron.edu