Dual Degree vs Double Major: Which Is Best for You?
Blog Summary
Are you also confused between the two terms dual degree vs double major? Don’t worry; we will help you resolve this dilemma.
Do you have a strong interest in more than one field of study? Then you may be interested in studying two fields concurrently through a double major or dual degree.
To succeed in their chosen career path, college students must step up and gain a competitive advantage over their peers in an ever-changing and fast-paced job market. While some people choose to upskill, many others pursue advanced degrees. It is frequently asked questions when students are planning to pursue either of them. Let us explain the difference between these two terms: dual degree vs double major in a detailed manner.
You can obtain two certificates in different fields through a dual degree program.
A degree having two areas of speciality is a double major.
You can access a larger variety of job alternatives with either choice. It will help to enhance your career prospects.
Choose the course of action that best suits your needs and career or academic objectives.
Introduction
At first glance, the distinction between a dual degree vs double major may appear hazy. Many educational institutions provide both programmes; however, which of the two should you pursue to be competitive in the job market? In the following blog, you will learn whether you should seek a double major or dual degree. Further down the lane, you will understand the distinction between a dual degree vs double major.
The difference between a double major and a dual degree is what you receive upon graduation from college. A double major allows you to earn one bachelor’s degree while specialising in two fields. On the other hand, a dual degree entails earning two different degrees/diplomas ( two bachelor’s degrees, a bachelor’s and a master’s, etc.) in two different streams or fields.
A double major gives you one degree in two related fields. Please be aware that these two terms are quite different, with their specialities differing in respective streams. Learning about these two terms in detail will make you aware of them and offer valuable insights. Let’s dive deeper to understand these two terms in a detailed manner.
What is a double major?
You can obtain a degree in two academic fields with a double major. You will accumulate the same number of credits as a single degree. You establish a fairly complete skill set for both specialisations if you intend to pursue a double major. You’ll have an extra advantage in your chosen career because of this.
Suppose you’re still deciding what to major in college. Double majoring allows you to earn two specialisations while meeting the same academic requirements as a single degree programme, usually in the same field of study. Having two majors will provide you with broader skills and more career options in the future. In a nutshell, it will help you gain a competitive edge over your peers in the long run. With a double major, you can earn a single degree with concentrations in two fields. In certain universities, you can effortlessly apply for the same courses in both majors.
Furthermore, you can perform your double major course within a four-year duration. Certain students also opt for a triple major, where they can study three fields simultaneously. Most types of double majors include Economics and business, Political science and foreign language, and many more.
- Communications and business
- Economics and mathematics
- Criminal justice and psychology
- Foreign language and political science
- Public health and statistics
What is a dual degree?
By majoring in two different academic fields, you can receive one degree. You will earn a single degree’s worth of credits. As a result, your job choice will benefit from an added edge. You earn double degrees, such as a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. Though it is common in undergraduate programs, students can simultaneously study for bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
If you are still deciding on your college major, consider double majoring. It will allow you to obtain two specialities while meeting the same academic criteria as a one-degree programme, typically in the same field of study. If you’re planning a dual degree program, ensure you complete the basic requirements for both degrees to earn them.
Examples of dual degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Master’s in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Masters in Information Technology
- Masters in Finance, and Masters in Accounting
COURSES:
Let us explore several options to understand the difference between Dual degree vs Double major
S.No | DUAL DEGREE | DOUBLE MAJOR |
Bachelor +Bachelor – It is one of the most common options as many specialisations are possible. Here are the most popular degrees available: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)Bachelor of Arts (BA)Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)Bachelor of Science (BS)Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)Bachelor of Music (BM) | It would give you one degree with a specialisation in two fields, in the same institution or university. The list will explain several best combinations available for students to opt for the double major: | |
Graduate +Graduate – Alternatively, this combines a master’s and a professional/doctoral degree. The most typical combinations include MS/Ph.D., MA/Ph.D., MA/J.D., J.D./Ph.D., MBA/J.D., and MPH/MD. Graduate degrees in the following fields can be combined:Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)Doctor of Medicine (MD)Juris Doctor (JD)Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)Master of Science (MS)Master of Business Administration (MBA)Master of Public Policy (MPP)Master of Public Health (MPH)Master of Arts (MA)Master of Social Work (MSW) | Political Science + Foreign language: Students can focus on several humanitarian ideals or subjects related to history, politics, economics, and culture along with a spoken language in several countries. It enhances their opportunities to explore several internships abroad. Biology + Communication – Several medical organisations would require candidates specialising in client orientation. This degree enables them to deal with other business professionals in various situations and enhance their administration skills. Economics+ Psychology – It will offer more in-depth insights into human motivation and relationships to become a well proficient economist and prosper in other spheres as well. | |
Bachelor + Master- It is a joint degree where you can earn a bachelor’s and master’s diploma in five years. Master of Business Administration (MBA)Master of Public Administration (MPA)Master of Public Policy (MPP)Master of Arts (MA)Master of Engineering (ME)Master of Science (MS)Bachelor of Science (BS)Bachelor of Arts (BA) |
Let us explore several advantages, and disadvantages of the two terms: Dual degree vs double major
Pros:
- It enhances your job prospects and lets you choose several lucrative career options.
- It will enable you to gain in-depth knowledge and offer real-time insights to develop and apply the skills in your fields or discipline, enabling you to earn extra credentials.
- It helps you to build a comprehensive multi-disciplinary skill set. It will help you gain a competitive edge over others. Several educational institutions offer generous assistance and guidance to help you embark on this journey and achieve a milestone!
- It helps to vary your employment possibilities and widen your knowledge horizons. You will improve your capacity for critical thought, time management, and self-education.
Cons:
- A separate application process, additional funding, and research for a prestigious university that matches your academic qualifications are necessary to earn a dual degree.
- Dual degrees do not always entail a nice raise in pay or other benefits initially.
Double Major:
Pros:
- It enables students to develop skills in two academic disciplines or fields that help to open the door to several diverse academic opportunities and enhance their career prospects.
- Certain institutions enable students to apply for triple majors that might add more value to their resumes and enhance their job prospects.
Cons:
- Some employers may not pay attention to double majors, especially if one is unrelated to the job in question.
Dual degree vs double major
BASIS | DUAL DEGREE | DOUBLE MAJOR |
Duration | Two bachelor’s degrees take five years; for a bachelor’s and a master’s, five years; and for two master’s, it takes three years. | The same duration is expected for a single major degree. |
Requirements | Curriculum requirements may vary for both subjects. Students need to attain practical and Capstone requirements for the degree with an efficient evaluation of proficiency. It will enable them to enhance their skill set. | Students need to attain the Capstone requirements to attain one major. |
Cost | Students may have to attend several high tuitions and programs. However, they can save time, money, and effort by attending repeated classes. | The same price as a single-major degree is based on the university’s tuition rates. |
Result | Students would attain two different degrees at the end of their tenure. | One degree with two areas of specialization. |
Credit | About 150 credits for two bachelor’s or a bachelor’s and a master’s, or 60 credits for dual master’s degrees. | The same number of credits are required to attain a single major degree. |
Conclusion
We hope the aforementioned pointers let you offer valuable insights on the terms: dual degrees vs double major. These are your best options, so consider them. Our institution does, however, provide profitable dual degree choices that can help you improve your employment prospects. Visit our website and provide your valuable suggestions.