UA School of Law and John Carroll University launch new 3+3 program collaboration

The University of Akron (UA) School of Law (Akron Law) and John Carroll University (JCU) are excited to announce a new 3+3 program partnership, which offers JCU students an accelerated pathway to earn both their undergraduate and Juris Doctor (J.D.) degrees in six years. This initiative, which will begin immediately, paves the way for JCU students to start their legal education at UA early as fall 2025.

The 3+3 program allows eligible JCU students to complete three years of undergraduate studies at JCU, followed by three years at UA School of Law. Students will apply to Akron Law during their junior year and upon acceptance their first year of law school will also count toward completing their undergraduate degree. Participating students will benefit from this pathway by graduating with both degrees in just six years instead of the usual seven.

"We already receive quite a few applications from JCU students every year, but we expect this new partnership to strengthen the bond between our two institutions even more," said Akron Law Associate Dean for Enrollment Management Barbara DiGiacomo. "We love JCU students – they come to us very well prepared for law school with excellent writing and oral communication skills, and a strong work ethic. We’re excited to welcome more of these outstanding students into our program."

This collaboration provides JCU students with the opportunity to save both time and tuition, while continuing to receive a rigorous legal education at one of Ohio’s leading law schools.

"With Akron Law's nationally renowned strength in Intellectual Property Law and its affordable tuition, JCU is excited about this new opportunity for our students,” stated Rodney Hessinger, JCU interim dean, College of Arts and Sciences. “With JCU's own new Law and Society minor priming students for legal study, we anticipate we will be able to send even greater numbers of students to Akron in the future."

In addition to JCU, Akron Law’s other 3+3 partners include Kent State University, Walsh University, the University of Mount Union, Indiana Tech University, Robert Morris University, Youngstown State University, Wilberforce University and Central State University. University of Akron students majoring in political science, history, philosophy, business law, economics and health care administration may also take advantage of the 3+3 program with Akron Law.

For more information on the 3+3 program and how to apply, visit UA School of Law’s website. 

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd; cboyd@sys-filter.com; 330-972-6476