Is It a Good Idea to Double Major?
This overview of double majors, the best combinations, and factors to consider provides valuable insight into whether or not it's a good idea to double major.
Choosing the best college major is one of the biggest academic decisions you'll make, and some students consider earning two degrees at the same time to expand their knowledge and career options. Whether you're combining two majors that pique your interest or pairing complementary fields like business and computer science, a double major can offer both advantages and challenges.
For some students, a double major provides greater career flexibility and a broader skill set, while for others, it may lead to a heavier course load, additional costs, or a longer path to graduation. Understanding the potential benefits, drawbacks, and factors to consider can help you decide whether pursuing a double major is the right choice for your educational and professional goals.
Is a Double Major Worth It?
If you choose to double major during your degree program, you will be required to fulfill extra program requirements instead of a single major; however, you will receive a more well-rounded education that aligns with your interests. This makes it worth it to some students who want to enhance their knowledge. On the other hand, it may not be worth it to others who don't want to commit to more coursework.
As an alternative, most degree programs offer the option of adding a concentration, which lessens your course requirements while still enhancing your knowledge. Looking over double major pros and cons can help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks to make the right choice.
Discover Accredited Online Programs
Find the program that works best for you and apply today.
Southern New Hampshire University
You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you reach them. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus provides affordable, achievable, and flexible pathways to a college degree for adult learners. With over 90 degrees and certificates, UMGC is built to fit your schedule and goals.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers a wide range of online programs designed for working adults. Earn your degree from a nationally recognized institution with flexible scheduling and strong academic support.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
The Pros and Cons of Double Majoring
Understanding the various benefits and drawbacks of double majoring is crucial to making the right decision for your college experience. Knowing what to expect and the potential challenges can help you make an informed decision about whether or not it's a good idea to double major.
Benefits of a Double Major
By choosing to double major, you expand your knowledge in two fields of study and stand out to potential employers. It allows you to pursue more than one interest and enhance your job prospects. The additional benefits are outlined below.
Key benefits:
- increased job opportunities
- potential for higher earnings
- broader knowledge base
- explore two interests
- prepare for graduate degrees
- enhance your credentials
- gain insight from two different fields
- more internship opportunities
Are There Any Downsides to a Double Major?
Pursuing a second major involves fulfilling both major requirements to earn a single degree. Having two college majors can be difficult to manage and takes hard work, so it is important to consider the following drawbacks.
Some drawbacks to consider include:
- additional coursework
- larger course load to manage
- GPA requirements
- less time for electives and extracurricular activities
- schedule may not allow for elective courses
- potentially adds an extra year of study
Should I Earn a Dual Degree or a Double Major?
Double majors, sometimes referred to as dual majors, are often confused with dual degrees when college students are planning their education. They both provide expertise in two different fields and come with many career advantages. Double majors result in a single degree that lists two majors, whereas dual degrees result in two separate degrees.
If you choose a dual degree, you have the choice to earn two undergraduate degrees simultaneously, although it generally takes longer to complete than a double major. Some dual degree programs let students earn their bachelor's degree before immediately beginning graduate school, which allows them to earn both degrees in less time than completing them separately; it often only takes an extra year to earn a master's degree.
Both options can help you stand out in the job market, add to your credentials, and allow you to pursue different career paths. Talking with an academic advisor can help you decide if a dual degree or a double major is the best decision for your personal academic and career goals.
What Are the Best Double Major Combinations?
Deciding which two areas of study to focus on during your degree program can be a difficult task. Choosing majors that align with both career goals and personal interests can ensure you're getting the most out of your education. These are some of the best and most common double major combinations that can prepare you for versatile career opportunities.
Business and Political Science
Double majoring in business and political science combines coursework in public administration, corporate governance, or international relations to give students a thorough understanding of politics and business. It provides connections and insights into how political decisions impact economies and businesses. Graduates can use their knowledge of business and government to pursue roles in policy analysis, corporate strategy, or public affairs.
Computer Science and Mathematics
Computer science and mathematics work together as majors to provide students with a foundation in algorithms, quantitative analysis, and mathematical theories that allow them to solve complex problems and contribute to innovation. A computer science and math double major is ideal for careers in data science, software development, and programming.
Psychology and Education
While completing a double major in psychology and education, students learn how psychology principles can be applied in teaching roles to improve learning outcomes. Graduates can use their understanding of human behavior and effective learning processes to design engaging lesson plans, implement better teaching methods, and support developmental growth.
Physics and Engineering
A physics major works together with an engineering major to provide college students with an understanding of how to apply theoretical principles of physics to their engineering skills to design and build innovative solutions. This combination prepares graduates for interdisciplinary roles in industries like engineering, technology, and research.
Nursing and Public Health
Nursing and public health is a double major combination that prepares graduates to address the health needs of individuals and health issues in their community. With clinical skills, medical expertise from nursing courses, and knowledge of preventing sickness in populations, graduates of this double major are qualified to advocate for people in both hospitals and public health organizations.
Accounting and Economics
College students who pursue a double major in accounting and economics receive a comprehensive understanding of topics like financial analysis and economic theory through courses that teach them how to interpret financial data and develop economic plans. This combined knowledge prepares them to understand market dynamics, work as economic consultants, and perform accounting tasks like auditing.
