WSU to KU Law Program Fast-Tracks Students Towards Degree Goals

Students interested in a legal career can fast-track their education through Wichita State's LEAD (Legal Education Accelerated Degree) program, saving money in the process. LEAD launched in 2021 as a pathway to the University of Kansas (KU) Law School after just three years of undergraduate study at Wichita State University.

So what are the benefits to students?

• Cost Savings: By shortening the undergraduate degree timeline by a year, in-state students can expect an estimated savings of $18,000 - $25,500, and $27,000 - 34,000 for out-of-state students.
• Time Savings: This is an accelerated program, meaning students do not have to take a fourth year of undergraduate schooling before entering law school.
• Save Your Spot: LEAD students are guaranteed placement in the first-year law class at KU provided they maintain a 3.5 GPA at WSU and score a 157 on the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). The eligible undergraduate majors in the LEAD program - criminal justice, history, English, philosophy and political science - all provide students with the soft skills necessary to succeed in law school.
• Law Professionals: LEAD students take the one credit hour course LASI150J: Career Paths in the Legal Profession. This class offers opportunities to meet with attorneys, judges and other legal practitioners to discuss careers in the profession, and what to expect in law school.
• Applied Learning: Students can also gain valuable experience with law-affiliated organizations by volunteering as a court-appointed special advocate with CASA of Sedgwick County. There are also volunteer opportunities with Kansas Legal Services, an NGO that offers legal services to low-income Kansans.

Matt Crow/Undergraduate Admissions

Dr. Jeffrey Hershfield, program director, noted that LEAD offers the above advantages to students while also attracting the motivated and high-achieving to Kansas' in-state degree programs. For more questions, Dr. Hershfield can be reached at jeffrey.hershfield@wichita.edu or 316-978-7883.