Baptist Schools Unite To Give Aspiring Lawyers a Head Start

William Carey University students who want to pursue careers as attorneys can save time and expense through a new agreement with Mississippi College School of Law.

“This partnership builds a pathway shaped by a Christian world view. It’s an effort rooted in our shared Baptist faith and a commitment to provide quality education to our students – and capable advocates to the clients they will serve,” said WCU Provost Dr. Noal Cochran.

The agreement offers an accelerated pathway that will enable motivated students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a law degree in six years – instead of seven.

Here’s how it works:

• William Carey students accepted into the program complete three-quarters of the coursework required for a bachelor’s degree.
• During their junior year at WCU, they go through the competitive process of applying to Mississippi College School of Law.
• At the start of what would have been their senior year at WCU, students enter law school at Mississippi College. When they complete their first year of law school, WCU awards their bachelor’s degrees.
• After two more years of law school, MC School of Law confers Juris Doctorate (law) degrees on successful graduates.

It’s called a “3+3 Program” because the last year of a student’s undergraduate studies and first year of law school overlap.

“As Mississippi's only religiously affiliated law school, MC Law is a natural partner for William Carey University in their shared mission of providing a quality, faith-based education. This 3+3 arrangement allows students to save a full year of tuition and expenses,” said Dr. John Anderson, dean of the Mississippi College School of Law.

The presidents of William Carey University and Mississippi College are pleased with the new program.

WCU President Dr. Ben Burnett: “We are always looking for ways to partner with other schools and organizations to benefit our students. This program is particularly special because we are partnering with a sister Mississippi Baptist institution.”

MC President Dr. Blake Thompson: “Through this partnership, we are expanding opportunities for students, strengthening legal education across our state, and helping ensure that future lawyers can pursue their calling and build careers right here in Mississippi.”

The partnership was formalized Feb. 25 during a signing ceremony at WCU’s Tatum Court. The new 3+3 program will go into effect in fall 2026.

For more information, email provost@wmcarey.edu.