Double Majoring in College: A How-To Guide

College students often select a minor concentration to supplement the major focus of their degree. A minor degree has fewer credit hours compared to a major and isn't given the same priority in learning.

For students looking to have equal focus on two fields of study, a double major is a viable option.

Compared to a single major, the number of credits required is doubled which increases the difficulty for many students. However, the benefits of a double major, like expanded career opportunities, can make increased coursework worth it.

Double Majors Vs. Dual Degrees

A double major isn't the same as earning dual degrees.

Both have similar credit requirements, but the final result will vary.

What Is a Double Major?

A double major is when a student selects two major degree concentrations.

Usually, these fields of study are closely related like finance and business or political science and foreign language.

Although a double major results in the equivalent of two bachelor's degrees, a graduate only earns a single degree with a second major on the diploma. This means that most double majors can be completed in 120 credit hours, like a typical bachelor's degree. However, this isn't true of all schools.

Because a double major usually only has the same credit hours as a single major, the cost of college is often very similar.

Double majors are almost always selected with a singular career path in mind. Having multiple education backgrounds can help separate graduates from their peers as they look to enter the workforce.

What Is a Dual Degree?

A dual degree, unlike a double major, is two separate degree programs. After graduation, a student earns two degrees.

Dual degrees usually are in related but different fields. For example, dual degrees are popular with students earning an MBA. Adding a second degree to their education can help position them for executive roles after graduation.

Unlike a double major, a dual degree often takes a longer amount of time to complete, often around 150 credit hours. For most students, this is an extra year of schooling.

Different schools will have different requirements for dual degree programs, though. If you're interested in a dual degree, make sure you talk to a counselor or look into your school's course requirements.

One other thing that separates a dual degree from a double major is that many schools have specific program options for dual degrees, while double majors can be chosen more freely.

Is It Allowed to Double Major?

For most colleges, double majors are allowed. Usually, double majors are only allowed at the undergraduate level, but some schools have the opportunity for a double master's degree.

The reason double majors aren't common in graduate school is due to the requirements to earn a master's. For a student pursuing two master's level majors, there is an increased chance they will be lacking undergraduate prerequisites.

Most schools will have information on their websites regarding double major policies, but reaching out to an academic advisor will provide the best answers.

Is It Hard To Double Major?

For students pursuing a double major, the overall credit hours required will be roughly the same as a single major. However, other factors can make a double major difficult.

Setting a course load can be difficult, especially with electives and internships required for differing majors. Evaluating courses that can be applied to both majors can help students earn their degrees more easily.

Time management is one of the most important skills required for a double major. Although most double major programs can be completed in four years, some students benefit from taking an extra year. This additional time allows for a more even spreading of classes to reduce stress and course load.

If a student is planning to extend their time in college, delaying the start of one major to later semesters in college can help students.

Common Double Majors

Even though double majors can be earned with many different degrees, some combinations are more common than others.

Some common double majors include:

• Accounting and Finance
• Criminal Justice and Psychology
• Marketing and Communications
• Business Administration and Accounting
• Supply Chain Management and Computer Information Systems

Why Double Major? Pros and Cons

Because there are challenges and increased difficulty associated with a double major, it's easy to question why anyone would work for it.

Some of the most common challenges that students experience while pursuing double majors include:

• Increased stress related to the expanded course load
• Potential impact on a student's GPA as they struggle to balance the different majors
• Increased course load leading to a strain on extracurricular activities

These might seem like large negatives, but double majors do not come without benefits.

Students who graduate with a double major often see benefits like:

• Higher earnings
• A broader skill set resulting from a well-rounded education
• More career options, both in terms of initial jobs and future promotions

For most students, these benefits outweigh any negatives and make the effort worth it.

How Do You Manage the Workload of a Double Major?

Managing the workload of a double major can be hard, but there are a few key ways students can make things easier for themselves.

Plan Early

As early in your studies as possible, sit down with an academic advisor to plot out your credit hours. Knowing which major requirements can be applied to both majors and what classes will only apply to one of the majors is essential.

Choose Complementary Majors

Although sometimes majors in different fields are required for career goals, it's often beneficial to choose areas of study that complement each other. This can also lead to some overlapping classes to reduce total coursework.

Is Double Majoring Worth It?

What ultimately makes a double major worth it will be how it impacts your career after graduation.

If your long-term career objectives require, or could at least be benefited, by a double major, then it will be worth it.

Even though it's far more common for students to have a major and a minor, individual goals for education and career should be considered when deciding what degree plan is right for you.

Start Your Degree Today

Whether you decide to start working towards a double major or only pursue a single major, starting your higher education is easier than ever.

Our database can help you find information on double majors at universities, both in-person and online programs, across North America.

After you learn more about your options, reach out to the college with the right double major program for you.