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Are you ready to discover your college program? Choosing a major marks one of the most critical and complex decisions college students face. For many, the difficulty lies in narrowing down their many interests to just one. But students do not need to limit themselves to just one major. Many schools offer students the opportunity to double major. Students who choose this path graduate with one degree in two different concentrations.
The portion of students who pursue double majors differs at each school. The College Board reports that about a quarter of all college students double major. That percentage rises to about 30-40% at more selective institutions.
Students must consider many factors when deciding whether to double major, including employment outcomes and course workloads. In this guide, we offer the information students need to weigh their options, and to learn how to double major.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Graduating from college in four years is a goal for many students. Not only does it allow you to enter the workforce faster, it also saves money by limiting the extra semesters of tuition.
But what if you want to double major? Is it still possible to graduate with two degrees in just four years?
The answer is yes! With some planning and hard work, you can absolutely double major and graduate in four years Here are 11 tips to help you make it happen
1. Get An Early Start in High School
The best way to set yourself up for success is to earn college credit while still in high school. Take as many AP and IB courses as you can in subjects that interest you. Then you can test out of intro college courses.
Dual enrollment programs are another great option These allow you to take college courses at a local community college or university The credits transfer to your future 4-year school.
Starting the double major journey early lightens your course load down the road.
2. Plan Out All 4 Years Right Away
Meet with your academic advisor as soon as you decide to double major. Map out which courses you’ll take each semester for all 4 years.
Having a plan is crucial when trying to graduate on time with two majors. It helps ensure you take the right classes at the right time.
Revisit the plan each semester with your advisor. Make tweaks if needed to stay on track.
3. Pick Majors With Overlapping Requirements
Choosing complementary majors where classes overlap is a great way to maximize efficiency.
For example, a computer science and math double major works well. Many upper level math courses count towards both degrees.
Look for majors in related fields sharing similar core requirements. This automatically helps you double dip courses.
4. Double Dip Courses Whenever Possible
Speaking of double dipping, take full advantage of courses counting towards both majors.
Actively look for opportunities to fulfill two requirements with one class. This saves you from having to take as many total credits.
Just make sure your school allows double dipping between the majors you pick.
5. Use Electives Strategically
Electives are another prime chance to double dip. Use any electives or general education requirements for classes that also satisfy major credits.
Knock out two birds with one stone by picking electives that apply to both programs. This maximizes every credit hour.
6. See If Minors Can Overlap Too
In addition to double majoring, look into adding one or two minors as well. Minors require fewer credit hours, so they’re easier to fit in.
And certain majors and minors complement each other seamlessly. For example, a Spanish major and Latin American Studies minor mesh together nicely.
Just make sure your school permits using the same courses for a major and a minor.
7. Take At Least 15 Credits Per Semester
While a full-time course load is usually around 12 credits, shoot for at least 15 credits each semester. This helps you rack up the 120+ credits needed to graduate on time.
Taking 18 credits is even better if you can swing it. Just don’t overdo it if that workload hurts your grades. Quality over quantity!
Summer classes are another great way to boost your credit count.
8. Prioritize Major Courses
When making your schedule, register for major courses and requirements first. Then add gen ed’s and electives if there’s room.
Limit how many tough major courses you take in one semester. Balance them with some lighter gen ed’s to avoid getting overwhelmed.
But don’t put off major requirements until senior year. Take required courses as early as possible so you don’t risk not graduating on time.
9. Consider Taking Courses Over Summer
Summer classes allow you to focus on just a course or two at once. And they help build a solid credit cushion heading into each year.
Even taking just 6 credits over 1-2 summers really adds up. It provides flexibility if you need to drop or withdraw from a course during the school year.
Online summer classes are very convenient too. Just make sure your school allows transfer of the credits.
10. Speak Up If You Have Scheduling Conflicts
Degree requirements don’t always fit together neatly. You may run into conflicts between required courses only offered at the same time.
Don’t just skip a class if this happens. Speak to the academic departments right away to find a solution.
They want to help you graduate on time, so they may allow substitutions or independent studies. Be proactive and advocate for yourself.
11. Cut Down On Extracurriculars if Needed
While college is about more than just academics, too many extracurriculars can distract from earning your double major on time.
It’s okay to say no to some activities or leadership positions if they don’t support your goals. Focus on quality over quantity.
Only join what you’re genuinely passionate about. And don’t be afraid to quit activities that become too demanding.
Yes, It’s Possible to Graduate in 4 Years with a Double Major!
It does take commitment and effort to complete two majors on the standard 4-year timeline. But thousands of students do it every single year. It just requires planning, focus, and effective time management.
By getting an early start in high school, double dipping courses, and prioritizing your major credits, you too can join the 4-year double major club. It provides an amazing foundation that opens up opportunities after graduation.
Just remember—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Know when you need to say no and don’t overload yourself. No degree is worth sacrificing your mental health and wellbeing.
Stay focused on your end goals, follow the tips above, and enjoy all the skills, knowledge, and possibilities that come with earning an undergraduate double major degree in just 4 years!
Q. Should I Double Major for Medical School?
Medical schools typically look at applicants GPA and MCAT scores above all else, so many experts advise not to double major unless students can keep their grades up. Admissions counselors also value the type of classes applicants take, a courses rigor, and how well students perform in classes. A double major does not necessarily mean an application will stand out.
More Frequently Asked Questions
Graduate schools typically offer dual-degree programs, which sometimes combine graduate and undergraduate programs. However, many graduate programs exist that allow students to graduate with two degrees, like Stony Brook Universitys masters in teaching English as a second language. This program offers students an opportunity to earn a teaching certificate.
9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Double Majoring In College
Can I double major and graduate in 4 years?
Can I double major and graduate in four years? Someone completing a double major can graduate in four years when planning accordingly. To accelerate your process, consider earning college credits in high school through advanced placement (AP) classes. This can help you begin your college education with some credits.
How long does it take to complete a double major?
The time to complete a double major varies depending on the number of units each major requires and may require additional credit hours. However, depending on the majors you pick, some credits for your second major may overlap with your first. Related: How To Write a Double Major on a Resume (With Tips, Templates and Examples)
Can You double major in two different degrees?
Students typically earn one degree with two majors that are on the same bachelor’s degree track. Some universities allow students to double major in two unrelated fields and degree tracks, though. A double major is different from a dual-degree program, which typically confers two separate diplomas and may require more credit hours.
How many credits do you need for a double major?
Double majors often require additional planning to meet all their requirements in four years. Students usually need over 60 credits between their two majors, which is no small task. Double majors might not pursue as many electives as students with just one major, who enjoy more “wiggle room” to try new things.
