Mitchell Hamline School of Law
UAF’s 3+3 partnership with Mitchell Hamline School of Law offers an accelerated path to a J.D., with the flexibility to study mostly in Alaska or on campus in Minnesota.
Mitchell Hamline School of Law is a nationally respected institution known for its commitment to accessible, practice-ready legal education. Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, Mitchell Hamline offers a variety of learning formats, including its innovative Blended Learning J.D. program—the first of its kind in the nation—which combines online coursework with on-campus sessions, making legal education more accessible for students across the country. The school emphasizes experiential learning, strong faculty mentorship, and a deep commitment to public service and community engagement.
The UAF / Mitchell Hamline 3+3 Program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) in just six years—three years at UAF followed by three years at Mitchell Hamline. Through the Blended Learning option, UAF students can choose to remain in Alaska for much of their law school experience, traveling to Minnesota only a few times per year, or they may complete their studies entirely on campus. First-year law school credits count toward the undergraduate degree, saving time and tuition.
To participate, students must complete at least 90 undergraduate semester hours by the end of their third year and meet UAF graduation requirements for early entry into law school. Applications to Mitchell Hamline should be submitted by July 15 of the student’s third year. Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic performance, LSAT scores, and character and fitness to practice law. Once admitted, students pay tuition and receive financial aid according to Mitchell Hamline’s policies. This program offers a unique, flexible, and efficient pathway to a legal career for Alaska-based students.
Program Eligibility Requirements
- Successful completion of at least 90 undergraduate semester hours, including all UAF general education requirements.
- While no specific major is required, students must declare a major and complete at least 18 semester hours toward that major (with a grade of C or better), including at least 6 semester hours at the 300–400 level.
- Completion of all required program courses.
- Written approval from the UAF Registrar’s Office confirming that all UAF graduation requirements for early entry will be met prior to enrolling in Mitchell Hamline.
- Application to Mitchell Hamline School of Law no later than July 15 of the student’s third year at UAF.
- Admission through Mitchell Hamline School of Law’s established process, which includes a holistic review of academic performance, LSAT scores, and character and fitness qualifications.
To learn more about these partnerships, please contact one of our Pre-Law Advisors, Carol J. Gray (Political Science), at cjgray5@alaska.edu or Jeff May (Justice) at jdmay@alaska.edu.