Double Major vs. Dual Degree: What’s the Difference?

When starting college, choosing the path that’s right for you takes a great deal of thought and consideration. Particularly ambitious students may decide to pursue a double major or a dual degree, each of which comes with their own unique set of challenges. Despite these terms often being used interchangeably, they are two very distinct programs. Here’s a detailed look at the differences between a double major and a dual degree, along with some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Double Major

A double major involves earning one degree with two areas of specialization. A double major allows students to fulfill the requirements for two different fields of study within a single bachelor’s degree program. For example, you might graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in both Psychology and Sociology.

One of the main advantages of a double major is that it often involves overlapping general education requirements and elective courses. This means you can complete two majors without significantly extending your time in college; however, the specific requirements will vary depending on the college or university and the fields of study.

Pursuing a double major will also provide a well-rounded education, enhancing your skills and knowledge in two areas. This can be particularly beneficial if the areas of study are complementary, such as Business and Economics, or if they provide a unique combination that sets you apart from other candidates in the job market.

Since a double major is completed within the framework of a single degree program, it typically doesn’t involve additional tuition costs beyond what you’d pay for a single major; however, this might depend on your school’s policies and the number of additional credits required for graduation. Here are some pros and cons of taking on a double major:

Pros

• A double major is cost effective and doesn’t typically cost extra when compared to a traditional degree program.
• Despite taking on two majors at once, you’ll often be able to complete the program within the standard four-year college timeline.
• Having expertise in two fields of study will make you more attractive to potential employers.

Cons

• The workload required for a double major can be very demanding and you may feel overwhelmed at times.
• Taking on a double major may limit your ability to take elective courses outside of your two chosen majors.

Dual Degree

A dual degree program differs from a double major in that it involves earning two separate degrees, often from different schools or colleges within a university, or even from two different universities. In a dual degree program, you work towards two distinct degrees simultaneously. For example, you might earn a Bachelor or Science (BS) in Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English.

Dual degree programs have distinct requirements for each degree, which often means more coursework. This can lead to a longer time spent in college, typically five or more years, depending on the program and the institution. Earning two degrees can provide you with a unique interdisciplinary education. For example, combining a degree in Computer Science with a degree in Business Administration blends technical expertise with an understanding of business, preparing you for a leadership role in tech companies.

Keep in mind that due to their nature, dual degree programs can be more expensive than a traditional degree program since you’re spending more time in school and increasing the number of credits that are required. In certain cases, a school may offer financial aid or scholarships specifically for dual degree students, so if you haven’t decided on a school yet you might want to take this into consideration. Here are some pros and cons of taking on a dual degree program:

Pros

• A dual degree program provides you with in-depth knowledge in two distinct fields.
• You’ll have a wide variety of career opportunities available to you upon graduation.
• Your diverse skillset will make you more attractive to potential employers from a variety of industries.

Cons

• A dual degree program is often significantly more expensive than a traditional degree program.
• In most cases you’ll be in school for more than four years.
• Taking on a dual degree program can feel overwhelming and requires a high level of commitment and time management skills.

Making the Decision

When deciding between a double major and a dual degree, think about your long-term career aspirations and how each option aligns with them. If your desired career path benefits from expertise in two closely related fields, a double major is probably the best route to take. On the other hand, if your goals require in-depth knowledge and credentials in two distinct disciplines, you might want to choose a dual degree.

You may also want to consider whether you’re willing to invest extra time and money. If you’re eager to enter to workforce quickly and minimize the costs associated with your education, a double major is far more practical; however, if you’re interested in an extended academic journey and you’re able to manage the financial burden of a dual degree program, it might be the right choice for you.

Lastly, consider your passion for the subjects you want to study. If you have a strong interest in two distinct areas and would like to explore them both, a dual degree might suit you well. For those who are looking for a more streamlined program that provides knowledge in two areas, a double major would be the better option. The bottom line is, both paths offer their own unique set of benefits and challenges, and the right choice will depend on your individual circumstances.