How Much Does a Double Major Cost?

When students select a college major, they often do it to prepare for future career opportunities. However, some careers are best suited to a broader skill set than a single degree concentration can provide, which is why some students select a second major. Many people assume that a double major costs more than a single major because of the increased coursework and credit hours, but most double major degree programs won't cost more than a singular major.

How Much Does It Cost To Double Major?

Double majoring in college includes completing the major requirements of two bachelor's degree programs. A bachelor's degree generally includes 120 credit hours including electives and general education courses, usually broken up to around 15 credits per semester.

Most colleges set tuition costs based on price per credit hour, meaning that the more credit hours you take, the more you'll pay in tuition. One common misconception about enrollment in a double major degree is that you'll have an increased number of credits.

The Cost of a Double Major vs. a Single Bachelor's Degree

Most double-major programs are designed where the major requirements are used as electives for the other major. This system allows for a double major to be completed in the same amount of time as a full-time single major and generally costs the same. However, this won't be universally true. If a college student takes longer than four years or includes summer classes in their degree path, they will probably have to pay more.

Because these additional semesters can increase costs, students must properly evaluate if a double major is worth it for their career goals. Meeting with an academic advisor as early as possible can help you set a course load that will help you fulfill the requirements of both fields of study within the planned timeframe.

Is a Double Major or Dual Degree More Expensive?

A common alternative to a double major is a dual degree program. Unlike a double major, a dual degree program results in two separate degrees, including a master's degree and an undergraduate degree or two undergraduate degrees. A double major will always be undergraduate degrees, while a double degree can include graduate degrees.

Double majors are designed to complement each other, while dual degree programs won't always have the same credit hours overlap to satisfy general education or electives the same way. Dual degree programs also often take longer due to factors such as:

• internships
• capstone projects
• additional credit requirements

Is a Double Major Worth the Cost?

The cost of a double major goes beyond tuition. Studying two different fields can be mentally taxing to some students. Although studying beyond a primary major can increase coursework and possibly tuition costs, students can see benefits from a double major, such as:

• increasing skill set and knowledge base
• providing better opportunities for specialization in your future career
• networking in multiple areas of study
• making the most of their time in college
• preparing for graduate school with diverse learning

How To Pay for Your Double Major

One of the biggest deterrents for potential college students is often the cost. Several options can help you pay for your double major degree program. Most versions of financial aid won't require a single major, but some will include restrictions on whether you take summer classes or longer than the standard length of time for your degree program.

A few of the best tips for paying for college include:

• fill out your FAFSA forms to establish eligibility
• apply for scholarships, grants, and other 'free money' payment options
• find in-state or online programs, these schools are usually more affordable
• look into your employee handbook to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement benefits
• look for work-study opportunities
• apply for federal or private loans if you need to

Does Financial Aid Cover a Double Major?

Students can apply for multiple types of financial aid, such as:

• federal grants
• scholarships
• student loans

Most of these financial aid options can be used for any costs associated with schooling, including tuition, and won't be restricted to single major degree programs. Some scholarships have restrictions about summer semesters, though, and if you're planning to use any of the aid on summer courses you'll need to make sure that you can apply it to all terms.

How Much Financial Aid Can I Get With a Double Major?

Financial aid amounts vary from student to student based on multiple individual factors like:

• high school GPA
• enrollment status (full-time or less)
• family contributions
• demographic information
• tuition costs and additional expenses

These factors aren't universal for all types of financial aid, as scholarships will use different criteria than student loans or grants.

Complete a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to establish eligibility. These documents will help you understand which financial aid you qualify for and what amounts you might receive.