PLU launches accelerated 3+3 law school pathway partnership with Gonzaga
By Britt Board
Assistant Director of Communication
Starting in fall 2026, PLU is launching a new accelerated pathway for students interested in law school through the 3+3 Law School Partnership Program with Gonzaga University.
Stephanie Johnson, PLU’s Dean of the College of Professional Studies, shares, “I’m excited about these partnerships because not only do they offer students additional support throughout the law school application process, but they also offer an opportunity to complete an undergraduate degree and J.D. more quickly. For the focused student, this means a savings of time and money.”
What is a 3+3 law school pathway?
Through this key partnership, the 3+3 program allows students to begin law school after three years of undergraduate study and earn both a bachelor’s and a law degree in six years, rather than seven. Ultimately, this partnership helps students save both time and money while creating a more direct path into the legal profession.
For students considering careers in law, the accelerated timeline can mean entering the workforce sooner and cutting out a year of tuition and living expenses in traditional, seven-year pathways. The program is open to students in any of the 14 undergraduate majors offered through the College of Liberal Studies.
How It Works
I’m excited to work with Pacific Lutheran University because our organizations both share a vision for access, equity, and service-centric academic excellence.
A liberal arts pathway to law school
PLU leaders say the partnerships reflect growing student interest in interdisciplinary and career-connected academic pathways. The university’s liberal arts curriculum — which emphasizes writing, critical thinking, ethics, communication, and analytical reasoning — aligns closely with the foundational skills needed for success in legal education and the legal profession.
The partnership is also expected to strengthen advising and mentorship opportunities for pre-law students at PLU. Students interested in the accelerated pathway will work closely with PLU pre-law advisors beginning as early as sophomore year to ensure they remain on track academically and prepare strong law school applications.
Ultimately, this partnership provides PLU students a faster, more streamlined route to law school while expanding access to mentorship, advising, and career-focused opportunities throughout their academic journey.
