In college, many people pick their major based on their passions or career goals. But what if you have two fields youre equally passionate about — or if there are multiple career paths that interest you?
If this sounds like you, you might want to consider a dual degree or a double major.
Making the decision between pursuing a dual degree or double major is an important one. Both options allow you to expand your knowledge and skills, but have key differences when it comes to time commitment, cost, and outcome. I’ll explain the pros and cons of each path to help you determine if a dual degree or double major is the better fit for your goals.
What is a Dual Degree?
A dual degree program involves working toward two separate degrees at the same time. This is different than a double major where you earn one degree with two majors.
To obtain a dual degree, you have to fulfill all the requirements for two distinct degree programs. Some common dual degree pairings include:
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics + Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Bachelor of Science in Biology + Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) + Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) + Juris Doctor (JD)
- Master of Public Health (MPH) + Master of Social Work (MSW)
Dual degree programs are structured so students can complete two degrees in less time than it would take to finish them separately. For example, you can earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in 5 years instead of 6.
The two degrees don’t necessarily have to be in related fields. But complementary programs like business and law allow you to gain diverse but applicable skills.
What is a Double Major?
With a double major, you only earn one bachelor’s degree, but you complete the requirements for two separate majors within that degree For example
- Psychology and Sociology
- Biology and Chemistry
- English and History
- Marketing and Finance
Since you’re only earning one degree, double majors typically don’t require extra years of study. But you may need to take on a heavier course load or extra classes to fulfill the requirements for both majors.
Double majoring does limit you to majors within the same college or university. Dual degree programs can span different schools and disciplines.
Key Differences Between Dual Degrees and Double Majors
Below is an overview of some of the main differences:
| Factor | Dual Degree | Double Major |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Longer than a single degree, often 5+ years | Typically the same as a single degree, 4 years |
| Credit Requirements | More, around 150 for dual bachelor’s | Same as a single degree, 120 credits |
| Cost | Higher overall, but can save via shared credits | Same tuition as a single degree |
| Outcome | Two separate degrees | One degree with two majors |
-
Dual degrees take more time and credits but get you two degrees,
-
Double majors don’t require extra time or credits but result in one degree with two majors.
The Pros and Cons of Double Majors
Pros
-
Allows you to study two subjects you’re interested in without extending your program length or paying more tuition.
-
Gives you a broad academic foundation and diverse skill set sought after by employers.
-
Having a second major can open up additional opportunities compared to having one narrow focus.
Cons
-
Fulfilling the requirements for two majors can mean a heavy workload. Careful planning is required to graduate on time.
-
In some career paths, employers may not consider the second major as relevant if it’s very different from the first.
-
Doesn’t provide the distinction of having two separate degrees.
The Pros and Cons of Dual Degrees
Pros
-
Earning two degrees gives you expertise in two disciplines, making you more competitive in the job market.
-
Having degrees from different schools (e.g. business and law) gives your education more depth.
-
Dual degrees expand your career opportunities since you have qualifications in two areas.
Cons
-
More expensive overall given the extra years required compared to a single degree program.
-
Admissions process can be more demanding since you have to apply and be accepted to two programs.
-
Managing coursework for two degrees at once can be challenging. Requires discipline and organization.
Which Should You Choose?
There’s no universally “better” option when it comes to dual degree vs double major. The right choice depends on your career goals, interests, time constraints, and finances. Here are some things to consider when deciding:
If your interests span two closely related fields, a double major is likely the better fit. For example, majoring in both History and Political Science. This allows you to pursue two complementary areas without extra years of study.
If you want specialized knowledge across different disciplines, like business and law, dual degrees make sense. The distinction of having degrees from different schools gives you broad expertise.
If time and money are limiting factors, double majoring may be better since it doesn’t extend your program length. Dual degrees require extra years of tuition costs.
If you know you want to work in a field that requires graduate studies, a combined bachelor’s + master’s dual degree allows you to pursue both efficiently.
Overall, determine which choice best matches your academic passions and career aspirations. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Speaking with academic advisors can provide guidance on choosing between a dual degree or double major. With thoughtful planning, either academic path can provide you with the knowledge and qualifications to meet your goals.
What is the Difference Between a Combined Degree and Double Major?
Double majoring and getting a combined/dual degree are two options available if you want to deepen your studies during college.
With a dual degree being two separate degree programs, a major difference between that and a double major is the number of credits youll need.
Chabot has personal experience with dual degrees as well. “During my undergrad, I chose to earn more than one bachelors degree,” said Chabot. “As an academic advisor, I’ve had students request additional information on the differences between a double major versus a dual degree, and I feel like I was in a unique position to provide guidance due to my experience.”
Find Your ProgramSelect Degree LevelSelect Category
If youre earning a dual degree, you may need to factor in the additional time that comes with getting two degrees instead of one. “Juggling the course requirements for two programs will require more time than a single degree, which can delay starting a new job,” said Chabot. You may decide that a double major is a better option because it lets you complete more than one major while maintaining a lower credit requirement and time commitment.
Whether a dual degree is a good fit depends on the student. “The benefits may outweigh the disadvantages for some students, as a dual degree can provide a competitive advantage in the job market with its unique skill set and interdisciplinary focus,” said Erb. “This is especially true for career paths seeking candidates who can collaborate across different areas of expertise, such as healthcare or technology.”
#Transizion Double Major vs Dual Degree: What’s the Difference?
What is the difference between a double major and a combined degree?
Combined degree programs typically take longer to complete than a single degree or a double major and result in two separate diplomas upon graduation, one for each degree. When you double major, you will be completing two sets of requirements for two different majors within the same degree, leading to one diploma.
What is a double major in college?
Some colleges allow a student to complete two sets of degree requirements and receive one Bachelor’s degree. In other words, a double major is when you graduate with one degree, but with two or more areas of specialization or disciplines. The details will vary depending on your time in school.
What is a dual major?
Undergraduates who double major fulfill the course requirements for two different major programs. Two separate degrees for two different majors. College students who earn dual degrees often study for an additional year to earn two different degrees covering two different subjects. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and psychology.
What is a dual degree?
College students who earn dual degrees often study for an additional year to earn two different degrees covering two different subjects. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and psychology. An undergraduate who earns both a bachelor’s in internal relations and another in Arabic. Potentially broader career options and higher earning potential.
