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A joint degree program (JDP) allows students to simultaneously pursue two graduate degrees through a specially designed curriculum. These programs are created through collaboration between academic departments and require approval from the deans of the involved schools. Each JDP establishes clear guidelines regarding admissions, academic advising, course requirements, and tuition policies. A key benefit is that certain course credits can apply toward both degrees' residency requirements, decreasing the total units needed to graduate. However, Ph.D. candidates in a JDP cannot use a Stanford master's degree or transferred credits toward their doctoral residency. Applicants must meet the deadlines for both programs and gain JDP admission before the study list deadline of the preceding term. Both degrees are typically awarded together upon completion, except for J.D. programs where the law degree may be granted first.