Finding Your Path
3 Routes: Become an AttorneyNo matter what route you decide, remember that everyone's pathway to become an attorney (also called a lawyer) is different. Common routes for OSU students towards law school and earning their Juris Doctorate (J.D.) include:
OSU Bachelor's + Law School
Complete OSU bachelor's degree then attend law school.
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Explore the Process
- Earn a bachelor's degree from OSU.
- Apply to an accredited law school one year prior to your anticipated start date.
- If accepted, begin your J.D. professional program.
OSU's 3+3 Transfer Back Program
Complete your bachelor's and J.D. in 6 years as opposed to 7.
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Explore the Process
- Complete 3 years of study at OSU in an approved 3+3 transfer back bachelor’s program.
- Apply to law school during your junior year at OSU.
- If accepted, you will leave OSU one year early to attend your accredited law program.
After Your First Year of Law School
- Submit your official law school transcript to OSU and apply for undergraduate graduation from OSU.
Bachelor's + Gap Year + Law School
Taking additional time can be to your advantage as a law school applicant.
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Explore the Process
- This is incredibly common (nationally, around 60% of first year law students took time off before law school).
- Earn a bachelor’s degree from OSU.
- If you feel you need more holistic development (academic or non-academic) to be ready to professionally apply, consider taking a “gap/enhancement year” to help you further develop.
- Unsure of what to do during a gap year? Visit the Pre-Professional Health and Law Support Services office to discuss your options.
- When holistically ready, apply to an accredited legal program. If accepted, begin law school.