Dual JD/MPH Program

Program Highlights

George Washington University's Milken Institute School of Public Health (SPH), through its Hirsh Health Law and Policy Program, collaborates with the GW Law School to offer a joint Juris Doctor/Master of Public Health (JD/MPH) program. This program promotes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of health policy, health law, public health, and healthcare. Students in the JD/MPH program benefit from an integrated curriculum where credits can be applied mutually: 8 JD credits count towards the MPH, and up to 12 MPH credits can count towards the JD. The program director is A. Barkoff.

Delivery Modes

The joint JD/MPH program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time study for the JD/MPH typically spans three-and-a-half to four years, potentially including summer enrollment. Part-time candidates will have a longer course of study.

Curriculum Overview

For the joint JD/MPH degree, students complete 37 credits of coursework through the Milken Institute SPH. This is because 8 credits from the Law School (JD program) are accepted towards the MPH degree requirements. A standalone MPH degree typically requires 45 credits. The MPH curriculum includes a supervised practicum and offers several focus areas. Students can apply up to 12 MPH credits toward their JD degree.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the joint JD/MPH program requires separate applications and acceptances to both the GW Law School (for the JD) and the Milken Institute School of Public Health (for the MPH). Applicants may apply to SPH concurrently with their Law School application or after admission to the Law School. JD candidates not applying simultaneously are encouraged to apply for the MPH program by the end of March of their first year of law school. Applications to the Milken Institute SPH must be submitted via the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS).

Career and Practical Experience

The JD/MPH program is designed to prepare students for careers that bridge law and public health, addressing complex issues in health policy, health law, and healthcare management. A supervised practicum is a mandatory component of the MPH curriculum, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in a public health setting.