Cincinnati Law, Mount St. Joseph launch program to transition students to law school sooner

The University of Cincinnati College of Law and Mount St. Joseph University (MSJ) have partnered to create an accelerated dual degree option for highly motivated and highly qualified students seeking to earn their undergraduate and juris doctor degrees in less time. 

Under the 3+3 accelerated dual degree programs, Mount St. Joseph students can start law school a year early, putting them on track to earn both a BA and JD in just six years, saving time and money. Representatives from both institutions will memorialize the agreement at a signing ceremony on Friday, Aug. 23^, at 10:30 a.m. at the law school. All are invited to attend. 

“This collaboration aligns with the university’s newly-launched “Bearcat Promise” initiative and is just one of the many programs we have in place to support student success,” said College of Law Dean Verna L. Williams, Nippert Professor of Law. “We’re continually seeking ways to increase access to legal education, and look forward to creating more opportunities with other universities. We’re especially pleased to join forces with Mt. St. Joseph’s on such an exciting endeavor.”

A MSJ student interested in admission to the College of Law through the 3+3 program will declare their interest during their first year of undergraduate education.  The student will work closely with an academic advisor to ensure they complete all general education requirements and coursework for their major during their first three years of study. 

During their junior year, the student will apply to the College of Law and will be eligible for College of Law scholarships.   If accepted, the student will begin full-time study at the College of Law during their fourth year, and the credits earned during that year will complete the student’s MSJ degree while counting toward the law degree.

“We are excited to enter this partnership arrangement with the University of Cincinnati Law School,” said Dr. H. James Williams, president of Mount St. Joseph University. “It represents another opportunity for the Mount to support students’ educating themselves, holistically and as cost-effectively as possible.  This program will enhance the learning experiences for Mount students, placing them on a fast-track to the legal profession.  Moreover, legal education is a great platform for a multitude of other career options. “

The partnership between MSJ and the College of Law is a natural fit.  Both schools offer small class sizes, blending theory with practical experience.  Also the benefit of both schools being located in Cincinnati means students can take advantage of in-state tuition and remain close to a community they already know.

In addition to the MSJ partnership, the College of Law has a 3+3 program for undergraduates with eligible majors at the University of Cincinnati College of Arts & Sciences.

Founded in 1833, the University of Cincinnati College of Law has the distinction of being the first law school west of the Alleghenies. From humble beginnings 175 years ago in a room above Timothy Walker’s law offices to its home today in Clifton (OH), Cincinnati Law has been on the leading edge of legal education. Thousands of lawyers have graduated from the law school, and about one-third practice in the Greater Cincinnati community, working in all areas of the law. For more information about the College of Law, visit www.law.uc.edu.

As a Catholic institution rooted in the values of the Sisters of Charity, Mount St. Joseph University excels at serving the common good. Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students at the Mount are inspired to think beyond the classroom and redraw the bounds of what’s possible for their futures. This is accomplished through individualized educational experiences, a safe, secure campus environment and an all-in commitment from faculty and staff to seeing students reach their highest potential. The Mount fosters life-long learners who serve, care, and contribute to the world beyond their front doors.