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

When it comes to pursuing higher education, students often encounter terms like "dual degree" and "double major" as potential options for expanding their academic horizons.

Both paths offer opportunities to study multiple disciplines simultaneously, but they come with distinct differences.

In this article, we will explore what sets a dual degree apart from a double major, helping you navigate the complexities of these options and determine which one best aligns with your goals.

What is a double major?

It is an academic path where a student pursues two distinct fields of study at once, earning a single degree upon graduation.

Unlike pursuing two diplomas, which would require completing the requirements for each separately, a double major involves meeting the demands of both disciplines within one degree program.

In order to achieve a double major, students must meet the necessary coursework and credit hours for both subjects. This often means taking additional classes and balancing the prerequisites of two different departments.

Some students may need to extend their time in college if they are unable to fit all the required courses within the usual timeframe.

Double major examples:

Psychology and Sociology

Biology and Chemistry

Economics and Political Science

History and English

Physics and Mathematics

Computer Science and Business

Environmental Science and Geography

Art History and Anthropology

Pros:

Develop expertise in two areas, increasing versatility.
Open doors to a wider range of jobs.
Strengthen critical thinking and time management.
Stand out with dual knowledge.
Pursue two passions simultaneously.

Cons:

Manage two sets of academic demands, risking burnout.
May extend time in university and increase costs.
Limited opportunity for extracurriculars or part-time jobs.
Struggle to balance attention between two disciplines.
Limited room for electives or exploring other fields.
Increased pressure from handling multiple expectations.

What is a dual degree?

It is a program in which a student works towards earning two distinct degrees, often in different fields of study.

Unlike double majoring, it leads to the awarding of two separate diplomas. This could involve pursuing a combination of undergraduate and graduate degrees (e.g., a Bachelor’s in Business and a Master’s in Engineering).

Students enrolled in dual degree programs must complete the obligations for both credentials, containing the required coursework, exams, and any other requisites.

Dual degree examples:

JD/MBA: a Juris Doctor in Law and a Master of Business Administration.

MD/MPH: a Doctor of Medicine and a Master of Public Health.

BEng/BSCS: a Bachelor of Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

PharmD/MBA: a Doctor of Pharmacy with a Master of Business Administration.

MArch/MUP: a Master of Architecture and a Master of Urban Planning.

JD/MS: a Juris Doctor with a Master of Science in Environmental Science.

MA/MBA: a Master of Arts in International Relations and a Master of Business Administration.

Pros:

Access to a wider range of higher-paying opportunities.
In-depth knowledge across various disciplines.
Develop a unique combination of abilities.
Stand out with qualifications in two areas.

Cons:

More years required to complete both degrees.
Increased academic demands and pressure.
Additional tuition and expenses.
Requires careful coordination of coursework.
May reduce depth of expertise in either field.