JACKSONVILLE, AL — Jacksonville State University has entered into a new partnership with Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law that will allow qualified students to earn both an undergraduate degree and a law degree in six years through an accelerated 3+3 program.
The agreement establishes a pathway for eligible Jax State students to begin law school during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Credits earned during the first year of law school will also count toward completion of their bachelor’s degree, reducing the overall time and cost required to earn both degrees.
Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. said the program is designed to expand opportunities for students interested in pursuing a legal career.
“This is about creating more opportunity for our students,” Killingsworth said. “For those who know they want to pursue law, this gives them a clear path to a highly respected program like Cumberland while saving time and cost along the way. We’re proud to open that door and help connect our students to that next step.”
The partnership was formally recognized during a signing ceremony at Jacksonville State University. Leaders from both institutions highlighted the program’s potential to improve affordability and streamline the path to a legal education.
Cumberland School of Law Dean Blake Hudson said accelerated programs can help address concerns about the rising cost of higher education.
“In today’s resource-constrained world, students are coming out with a lot of debt,” Hudson said. “If you can make it a year shorter, it makes a big difference in their debt levels. Students are also deciding what they want to do earlier, and if you can get them on that path and make it clear, I think it’s a great opportunity.”
Dr. Lori Owens, Professor of Political Science and Dean of the Honors College and Special Programs at Jax State, said interest in law school is growing among students from a variety of academic backgrounds.
“We have a growing number of students across majors who are considering law school,” Owens said. “The variety is very wide now. It’s not your standard major anymore. Cumberland has been a great partner with us for many years, and we hope to send even more students now that we have this opportunity.”
University officials said the agreement strengthens a longstanding relationship between Jax State and Cumberland School of Law and is intended to support students as they prepare for law school and future legal careers.
Under the program, students enrolled in approved majors may apply after completing required undergraduate coursework. Those admitted to Cumberland School of Law will begin law studies during their senior year at Jax State, with first-year law courses counting as elective credit toward their undergraduate degree.
To participate, students must complete all requirements for their undergraduate major, gain admission to Cumberland School of Law, and follow an approved 3+3 plan of study.
Students interested in learning more about the program may contact the Pre-Law Advisement Office in the Honors College at prelawadvisor@jsu.edu or call 256-782-8269.
