If you’re a high-achieving student with big-time career goals, it’s possible you’ve heard these terms tossed around once or twice before — dual degree and double major.
Both of these degree paths may sound ambitious —perhaps even a little overwhelming — but at University of Bridgeport, we support you in every step of your journey toward professional success. You choose your degree path, we’ll have your back.
Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between dual degrees and double majors. If you’re still on the fence after that, don’t sweat it. We’ve laid out the pros and cons of each to help you determine if either path is the right choice for you.
Defining the Difference — Degrees vs Majors
At first, you may think dual degrees and double majors are similar. Afterall, “dual” and “double” mean the same thing, right?
While that may be true, degrees and majors are distinctly different. A degree is a qualification, credential, or statement of achievement. In contrast, a major is the area of study on which you choose to focus your degree. In other words, a major is what you study, and a degree is what you earn.
So, What are Dual Degrees and Double Majors?
When you earn a dual degree, you earn two distinct qualifications. In most cases, dual degrees build on each other in succession. For example, when you earn a dual degree in Psychology and Counseling, you earn your bachelor’s in Psychology and immediately continue your studies to pursue a master’s in Counseling. It usually takes five years to complete a dual degree.
When you pursue a double major, you earn a single degree that encompasses two areas of study. You can choose majors in similar or different fields. Once you’ve completed both programs of study, you graduate with a bachelor’s degree listing both majors. For example, students who double major in Psychology and Human Services graduate with a bachelor’s degree listing both fields of study. As long as you plan your classes accordingly, a double major can still be completed on a traditional four-year timeline.
Let’s Recap the Basics.
If you pursue a dual degree, you:
- Earn two degrees: an undergraduate degree and graduate degree.
- Earn two degrees in the same field or closely related fields.
- Earn your bachelor’s degree before immediately continuing to your graduate studies.
- Earn both of your degrees in approximately 5 years. This can vary based on your programs of study.
If you pursue a double major, you:
- Earn a single degree. It is an undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree.
- Earn a degree that lists two similar or distinct fields of study.
- Earn your bachelor’s degree after completing all requirements for both majors.
- Earn your bachelor’s degree in four years. This can vary based on your programs of study.
Is a Dual Degree Right for Me?
Here are some things you should consider before committing to a dual degree program.
Pros of Earning a Dual Degree
One of the best things about enrolling in a dual degree program? It’s an excellent way to save money on your graduate studies.
When you pursue your bachelor’s and master’s degrees separately, you’re likely to spend six years in school (with four years as an undergraduate and two as a graduate student). In contrast, pursuing both credentials through a dual degree program often takes only five years. Dual degree students enjoy this expedited timeline because certain schools, like UB, offer dual degrees on an accelerated model. This can save you a year of valuable tuition money, while also allowing you the opportunity to jump into your career a year early.
Another benefit of pursuing a dual degree? Earning a graduate-level credential will yield higher earnings and advanced career opportunities. Moreover, your dual degree shows prospective employers that you’re hardworking, driven, and highly motivated.
Cons of a Dual Degree
While earning your dual degree is completely achievable, it doesn’t come without its drawbacks.
The biggest drawback may go without saying — a dual degree takes unique time, effort, and persistence. As you advance your studies, your coursework will become more focused and intensive. Depending on your chosen field, you also may have to fulfill clinical or internship requirements.
Considering that you’re completing two degrees on a five-year timeline, you may find that pursuing a dual degree can also cut your summers short. To stay with their cohort and graduate on time, most dual degree students have summer classes built into their plans of study.
The final drawback to pursuing a dual degree is a double-edged sword — the price. While earning a dual degree is typically more affordable than pursuing separate bachelor’s and master’s degrees, it is still a pricier option than a double major (more on that later). Additionally, there is always a chance that personal or academic factors might affect your five-year timeline, leading you to a more traditional six-year experience.
Let’s Recap the Basics.
The pros of a dual degree include the following:
- Compared to students pursuing their degrees separately, students in a dual degree program save time and money.
- Earning two degrees will increase your salary potential.
- Earning two degrees will increase the variety and level of career roles available to you.
The cons of a dual degree include the following:
- A dual degree is time-consuming, and you may be required to take summer classes.
- Compared to a double major, a dual degree is more expensive.
- Dual degree students are required to complete increasingly difficult coursework.
Interested in pursuing a dual degree? At UB, we offer multiple career-focused dual degree programs. Learn more about jumpstarting your career at University of Bridgeport!
Should I Choose to Double Major?
Here are some factors to weigh before deciding whether to double major or not.
Pros of Earning a Double Major
When employers see a double major on your resume, it sets you apart as a hardworking candidate with a diverse and versatile skillset. Given that adaptability and a strong work ethic are some of the most sought-after qualities in new hires, your double major may just help you land that big interview.
This leads to the next advantage of choosing a double major — you’ll get more bang for your tuition bucks. When you choose a double major, you study both fields simultaneously at no additional charge. As a result, a double major doesn’t affect your graduation timeline or your bottom-line tuition expense. Upon graduation, double majors can enjoy a rich variety of professional opportunities without having to pursue a postgraduate degree.
Cons of Pursuing a Double Major
While double majors prepare undergraduates for professional success, some find that choosing this degree path takes away from the traditional college experience. Because double majors must satisfy requirements for both of their programs, they often don’t get the opportunity to explore different areas of study. For this reason, some students prefer to minor in their secondary field of interest. It is important to note, however, that a minor will not appear on your degree — bachelor’s degrees only list your major area(s) of study.
Furthermore, earning your bachelor’s in two different fields will mean a busy four years. Many of your courses — especially during the latter half of your studies — will be intensive, upper-level classes. Some students find it difficult to satisfy these challenging program requirements in only four years. As a result, choosing a double major has the potential to take more than just the four years you bargain for as an incoming freshman.
Let’s Recap the Basics.
The pros of a double major include the following:
- By demonstrating adaptability and a strong work ethic, you can enjoy more job opportunities.
- By pursuing a double major, you demonstrate a versatile and diverse skillset.
- Double majors enjoy a greater variety of career roles while saving time and money on a graduate degree.
The cons of a double major include the following:
- A double major will limit your freedom to explore other areas of study.
- Double majors are challenging to complete and can keep students very busy.
- If you stray from your plan of study, you may spend additional time and money on your bachelor’s degree.
Knowing What’s Best for You
When choosing your degree path, there’s one factor you should prioritize above all else — you. Education isn’t one size fits all, so the best option for your future is 100% your choice.
For highly motivated students with specific career goals in mind, a double major or dual degree can provide a competitive edge after graduation. However, both of these degree paths offer benefits and drawbacks that need to be considered before committing to a plan of study.
Learn more about how UB’s career-focused programs can prepare you for professional success, or call 800‑392‑3582.