Dual Degree vs. Double Major: What’s the Difference?

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If you’re someone with varied interests or a clear career path that spans multiple disciplines, you may be considering pursuing either a dual degree or a double major in college.

But what’s the difference? Each approach has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on your personal goals and circumstances.

We’ll outline the distinctions between the two, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and provide some guidance to help you choose the path that best suits your educational aspirations.

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A dual degree involves earning two separate degrees concurrently, often from different colleges or disciplines within a university.

This could mean receiving both a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science or even earning a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree simultaneously. The dual degree approach often takes longer and requires more credit hours than a double major, but it results in two distinct degrees.

The two degrees are typically distinct but may complement each other based on a student’s career objectives. For example, some universities offer dual-degree tracks that award an MBA and a master of science in information systems, preparing graduates for careers as IT managers and executives.

A double major allows you to earn one bachelor’s degree with two separate majors. This means you fulfill the requirements for two distinct areas of study within the same college or university.

For instance, you could double major in English and history, biology and chemistry, or business and psychology. This often involves a more rigorous course load, as you’ll need to meet the requirements for both majors, but it allows you to explore two areas of interest in depth.

A double major typically requires you to complete more classes than a standard program but not as many as a dual degree. For example, if your university requires 120 credit hours for a single major, a double major may require around 150 to 160 credit hours.

A dual degree, however, might require up to 180 credit hours or more, depending on the specific programs you’re pursuing.

A double major can often be completed within the typical 4-6 year timeframe for a bachelor’s degree, although it might require a heavier semester load or additional summer courses.

A dual degree usually takes longer to complete, often 5-6 years for two bachelor’s degrees or as many as seven years for a bachelor’s and master’s degree combination.

Upon graduation, double majors receive one diploma that lists both of their majors. Dual degree students receive two separate diplomas, one for each degree earned.

Both dual degrees and double majors can expand your career opportunities by offering diverse skill sets and knowledge in two areas.

However, a dual degree might give you an edge in certain careers that require graduate-level education or specialized knowledge in two separate fields.

Whether a dual degree or double major is ‘better’ largely depends on your individual goals, interests, and career aspirations. If you’re passionate about two subjects within the same general field and want to delve deeply into both, a double major might be the best fit.

Alternatively, if you’re interested in two distinct fields or are considering a career that requires graduate-level education, a dual degree could offer the depth and breadth you need.

Deciding between a dual degree and a double major comes down to your personal, academic, and career goals.

It’s important to consider your own interests, the amount of time and money you’re willing to invest in your education, and the career path you see for yourself.

Speak with academic advisors, career counselors, and professionals in your field of interest to get a fuller picture of what each path could mean for you. Remember, the right choice is the one that best aligns with your aspirations and paves the way for a fulfilling future in the career you love.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed May 28, 2024.