Dual Degree vs. Double Major: Which One Is Better for You?

The current job market is highly demanding. Thus, more students are choosing to specialize in multiple subjects to pursue the career of their dreams. To keep up with these demands, many universities offer dual degrees and double majors, which allow one to study two subjects simultaneously.

But how are the two programs different? And are they worth the additional effort? Read on to find out! And you can hire writing professionals from platforms like EssayServiceto complete your college assignments while you are figuring your options out. So, let’s dive in.

What’s the Difference Between a Dual Degree and a Double Major?

Both programs allow students to pursue two different subjects within a given timeframe. Yet, a dual degree awards two distinct degrees at the end of the course:

• two bachelor’s;
• a bachelor’s and a master’s;
• or two master’s degrees.

In contrast, a double major awards a single degree in two academic subjects.

Typically, a double major allows you to study two related subjects from the same field, such as English and French, from the same school. However, if you want to study entirely different subjects like music and psychology, you need to opt for a dual degree.

Here are some other differences between the two programs.

Duration of the Course

A double major can usually be completed in the same duration as a single major course. A dual degree takes slightly less time to complete when compared to two single degrees in the given subjects. Generally, a dual degree is of longer duration than a double major.

Cost

Double major costs are almost the same as those of a single major program. However, a dual degree may have a higher tuition fee.

Credits

A double major requires 120 credits or an average of 15 credits per semester for course completion, which is the same as a single major degree. For a dual degree, the credit requirement increases to 150 credits.

Pros and Cons of a Dual Degree

A dual degree awards you two distinct credentials in the subjects of your choice. Though the coursework and duration are heavier when compared to a double major, pursuing a dual degree has its pros and cons. It’s all about how well you can manage the double work and more assignments. You can even ask others to order essay by essay service to avoid missing your assignment deadlines.

Pros

• A dual degree equips you with extensive knowledge in two subjects or an advanced specialization in a single subject, giving you better credentials.

• Consolidated programs give the same benefits of studying for two individual degrees but in less time. You get to spend a few years in college and start your career earlier than others pursuing the same credentials individually.

• Earning two degrees gives you better career prospects. You can apply to more open positions or get a higher salary at the entry level.

Cons

• Dual degree programs require extra time and financial investments. This includes additional tuition fees, separate admission processes, and accommodation costs.

• Most dual degree programs require you to apply before the end of your first year when making such a decision isn’t easy. Not all students know how much commitment a dual degree requires and may end up spending more time in college due to unfinished coursework.

Pros and Cons of a Double Major

Double major awards a single degree that requires less time and cost to complete. But there are other pros and cons you need to consider before applying to the program.

Pros

• Double majors are easy as you study similar subjects at the same school. This means you gain in-depth knowledge in two subject areas within a single degree.

• A double major awards a unique credential depending on the choice of subjects. This opens up diverse job options, which may not be available for single-major graduates.

Cons

• Double majors require careful planning. If your subjects don’t have back-to-back classes, finishing the course within the designated time frame is difficult. You may need to spend additional semesters to meet the requirements of both majors.

• Even if you study two subjects, in the end, you mention only one degree in your resume. Some employers may not give the same weightage to a double major as they do to a dual degree.

Should You Pursue a Dual Degree or a Double Major?

Both a dual degree and double major have various benefits. However, studying two subjects isn’t mandatory. If you wish to pursue either of them, you need to consider your preferences, time, and financial constraints. Here are some tips to help you if either of the programs is for you.

Career Opportunities

While studying two subjects should get you more career opportunities, it doesn’t guarantee a better job or a higher salary. Most employers may not even consider your second major or degree if it is unrelated to the applied position. And if your subjects are completely unrelated, you may effectively use only a single degree at a time when applying to jobs.

To avoid this, understand the various subject combinations and explore their career options before choosing a program. For example, subjects like biology and chemistry or economics and statistics are popular combinations and have good career prospects. However, it doesn’t make sense to choose music and mathematics unless you have a specific job opportunity.

Coursework

It is possible to complete a double major or even a dual degree within four or five years, but it also means an additional workload that doesn’t suit everyone. Moreover, by combining two difficult majors, you may spend more time and money on the degree than initially planned.

Instead, carefully study the course requirements and understand the scope of each subject. Then, choose subjects with interlinked topics to manage studies easily.

Wrapping It Up

A dual degree and a double major allow you to get specialized knowledge in two academic areas with different course requirements, broadening your career prospects. Each program has its own merits and demerits, which can help you make a better choice. To opt for the right program, understand your own preferences and choose the one that aligns with your future goals.