Bachelor of Arts
Legal Studies 3+3
The 3+3 Legal Studies partnership with Creighton Law offers an accelerated path to earn both a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor in just six years. Students complete three years at CSM before transitioning into Creighton’s law program, gaining a head start on their legal career.
Dig Deeper Into the program
Explore the accelerated 3+3 pathway with Creighton Law, including coursework, advising, and requirements that prepare you for a seamless transition into law school.
Degrees Offered
- Bachelors (College of Saint Mary) + Juris Doctorate (Creighton University)
- Bachelor of Arts degree is conferred following the completion of first year of Law School.
Start Terms
- Fall or Spring
Program Format
- On-campus
- Select classes available online to provide added flexibility for students
Credit Hours & Timeline
- Total credits required: 120
- Typical completion time: 4 years
Start your path to a law degree faster with an accelerated 3+3 program. Complete three years at CSM before transitioning to law school, saving time while building a strong academic foundation.
- Earn your bachelor’s and law degree on an accelerated timeline
- Complete three years of undergraduate study before law school
- Build a foundation in legal studies, research and writing
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- Transition seamlessly into a partner law school
Applicants for admission are evaluated based on the following criteria to gain full admission.
- High school record of cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. An applicant for a degree program must have graduated or will have graduated with 16 high school units from an accredited high school. The college preparatory program is strongly recommended to high school students. Ordinarily this program includes four years of English and two years of social studies, science, and mathematics.
- College/university record of cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, if applicable.
Applicants who do not meet the following criteria and show potential for success may be reviewed for an alternate admissions pathway.
Students who have successfully completed the General Education Development Test (GED) and have not accumulated at least 12 collegiate level semester hours credit at a regionally accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA or better will follow the Alternate Admissions Pathway.
Applications open July 1 for the upcoming academic year. CSM follows a rolling admission process, reviewing applications as they are received. We encourage students to apply early for priority consideration for scholarships, housing, and financial aid.
The Mercy Core is CSM’s general education curriculum and the foundation of every degree. Rooted in the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy, it integrates ethics, reflection, and action to prepare women to lead with purpose and advance justice in their communities.
Tuition & Aid
Investing in your education is a big decision, and you do not have to navigate it alone. Every admitted full-time undergraduate student is guaranteed a merit scholarship, and CSM offers additional aid and personalized guidance to make your degree attainable. Our team will walk you through your options so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Your Roadmap to Admission
From application to enrollment, we guide you through each step with clarity and personal support so you can focus on what matters most and take the next step toward your future.
Why Choose CSM?
Accelerated Path to Law School
Earn your bachelor’s and JD in six years through a structured, high-achievement pathway.
Direct Partnership with Creighton Law
A clear, intentional pathway into a respected regional law school.
Leadership-Focused Education
Develop the confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills to lead in legal settings.
Personalized Support and Mentorship
Work closely with faculty, many of whom are practicing attorneys, to guide your academic plan and prepare for law school.
Legal Career Outlook
Careers in law offer strong long-term opportunity and influence.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of lawyers is projected to grow steadily, with a median salary above $135,000, reflecting both demand and long-term earning potential.
Legal STudies 3+3 By The Numbers
3+3 Years
Accelerated Degree Path
Earn both your bachelor’s and JD in just six years.
1 Partner School
Creighton School of Law
A direct pathway into a respected legal institution.
30+
Law School Coursework
First-year JD credits apply toward your undergraduate degree.
Other Legal Studies Program
Accreditation
The Assurance of Accreditation
The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society. College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
College of Saint Mary’s Bachelor of Arts Degree in Legal Studies program is approved by the American Bar Association, Standing Committee on Paralegals, 312-998-5618.
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Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you build a future with confidence.