The joint degree program normally requires three years of study. Successful candidates are awarded the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree and the Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree at the conclusion of the three-year period. A joint degree student will pay tuition to YSPH for three semesters and to the Jackson School for three semesters.

A joint degree is more than simply a list of courses taken at both Schools. It is an integrated educational program which is designed to achieve a combination of the two programs in a way that is complementary to both while protecting the integrity of each separate program. The Director of Student Affairs at the Jackson School and the Dean of Student Affairs at YSPH will consult regularly to review the progress of students in the joint program.