Do You Get Two Degrees if You Double Major?

If you're planning to go to college, you're probably thinking about the various degree options available. If you're interested in more than one area of study, perhaps you're contemplating a double major. But you're curious: does getting a double major automatically lead to two separate degrees?

Whether you complete a single major or a double major, you only get a single degree. A double major means that you complete the requirements for two different majors as part of the same degree program.

Do You Get Two Degrees From a Double Major?

While a double major allows students to complete two different areas of study, it does not lead to two separate diplomas.

Students pursuing a double major generally complete the same number of credits as those pursuing a single degree. Obtaining a double major simply means that the student has completed all course requirements for two separate areas of study.

Double majors provide a greater amount of specialization by helping students develop different but complementary skill sets. They do this by combining two different majors in a single degree program, allowing students to complete their studies efficiently.

How Does a Double Major Work?

Bachelor's degrees consist of three different types of classes: core courses, general education courses, and electives. Those completing a double major must complete two sets of core courses in order to meet the requirements of two separate majors.

Students who double major may also have to take additional classes, complete internships, or fulfill other requirements. In some cases, they have to take a heavier courseload to ensure they are meeting all the different requirements of both majors.

That said, most students pursuing a double major take fewer electives to compensate for taking extra core courses. With proper planning, it is possible to complete a double major in four years by enrolling in 120 credit hours, the same minimum requirement for single degrees.

Double Major Requirements

Exact requirements for pursuing a double major vary by school, and each individual program has separate requirements as well. The requirements you will have to meet for your specific double major will largely depend on your unique areas of study and your school's policies.

Luckily, it isn't too rare to double major, so there are some basic requirements you'll need to meet. To pursue a double major, you will need to have a high school diploma or GED. Your school may have minimum GPA requirements as well.

Beyond that, it's important to check with an academic advisor at your school to find out what specific requirements you'll have to meet and to ensure you take all of the necessary classes.

How Can I Get Two Diplomas?

If you are looking to earn two separate degrees, you can pursue a dual degree instead of a double major. This is a great idea if you are trying to learn about two very different subjects.

Earning a Dual Degree

Dual degree programs enable you to earn a second degree separate from your first one. In these types of programs, you earn two separate programs for completing two separate courses of study.

Dual degrees typically take longer to complete than double majors, and you will likely have to complete a greater number of credit hours (usually 150 or more).

Dual Degree Requirements

To pursue a dual degree, you will also have to be a high school graduate or GED holder. Different schools may have additional requirements, such as minimum GPA.

You will likely have to complete separate general education courses and electives as well as core courses. Though there may be some overlap between your two degrees, you will likely not be able to apply as many credits to both degrees as you would do with a double major.

Should I Earn a Double Major or a Dual Degree?

The choice to pursue a double major or dual degree depends on your interests and the types of degrees you pursue.

Students hoping to earn two different types of degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts, will likely need to pursue dual degrees. On the other hand, a student interested in pursuing two majors but only one type of degree can pursue a double major.

Additionally, students interested in pursuing complementary fields of study, such as business and finance, can usually complete a double major. Students interested in pursuing very different degrees (such as art history and computer science) or degrees at different levels (such as concurrent bachelor's and master's degrees) would more likely have to complete a dual degree program.

Benefits of a Double Major

Pursuing a double major offers many benefits, especially for younger students looking to stand out in the workforce after graduating. These benefits may include:

• a wider range of job prospects
• improved hirability
• increased earning potential
• broader skill set
• expanded knowledge