How to Double-Major and Still Graduate in Four Years

<p>With a plan in mind, it is possible to double major and still graduate in four years. The earlier you start, the more likely you can achieve that goal. </p> <h3 id="section---EarnCollegeCreditInHighSchool">Earn College Credit in High School</h3> <p>If you're still in high school, depending on your grade level, you can take Advanced Placement (AP) classes. These classes grant <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_College_Credits.html">college credit</a> based on exam scores. This can be a great way to bypass many general education requirements. </p> <p>An option for those who don't take AP classes or are out of high school is the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP). This program allows individuals to earn college credit by taking exams based on their knowledge of a subject, regardless if they've taken a course in it. </p> <p>It is important to note that not all colleges accept AP or CLEP credit, or they may have different criteria. Research what your prospective college accepts ahead of time. </p> <h3 id="section---TalkToYourAdvisor">Talk to Your Advisor</h3> <p>If you're planning to double major, talking to an undergraduate academic advisor can be a great way to gain information and insight. An academic advisor can tell you if your goal is obtainable, which classes you will need to take, how they will fit into a schedule, and what classes can satisfy general education requirements. They can additionally guide you into exploring a second major if you're unsure and let you know what your best options are. Talk to an advisor no later than your first or second year of college so you can begin taking the right classes on time. </p> <h3 id="section---TakeSummerClasses">Take Summer Classes</h3> <p>To meet your credit hour requirement, you'll need to take classes during the summer. Many universities do offer summer classes, but if yours doesn't, or the classes you need to take are unavailable, you may be able to <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Type_of_Degree_Programs_are_Offered_at_Community_Colleges.html">take classes at a community college</a> over the summer. You can transfer the credits when you return for the regular semester. Research your university's credit transfer policy to see if community college summer classes are right for you. </p> <h2 id="section---TheProsAndConsOfDoubleMajoring">The Pros and Cons of Double Majoring</h2> <p>Double majoring can be a great option for those with many interests or those who can't decide on just one major. Aside from interests, double majoring can have a positive effect on career opportunities. It can show employers you have persistence and a wide range of marketable skills. Double majoring also benefits career opportunities if the two majors are geared towards career fields that cross with each other. For example, double majoring in criminal justice and social work can increase one's prospects in either field due to the need for social workers who are knowledgable in the criminal justice system and vice versa. </p> <p>Double majoring does mean you could be taking more than the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Many_College_Courses_Do_Most_College_Students_Take_During_a_Semester.html">average amount of college courses</a>, though. Applying your focus to two different areas of study can be difficult to manage, and it takes a great deal of time, effort, and commitment. This could mean that sometimes you might have to skip out on elective courses or social and extracurricular activities. Think about what your goals are, how committed you are to studying two different subjects, and what you're willing to sacrifice.</p>