Dual Degree: Best Programs and Top Universities

A dual degree is the perfect solution if you want to gain diversified knowledge and expertise in two distinct subjects. These are currently being given by colleges in various fields or levels of study and are an emerging trend. Due to the massive surge of students who have demonstrated an unusual interest in dual degree programs and the growing need from employers for professionals with numerous specialties, dual degree courses are in high demand. Today, this blog will dive deeper into everything about dual degree programs in top universities.

What is a Dual Degree?

A dual degree or double degree program allows students to pursue two independent degrees from the same university, two other universities, or even two different countries simultaneously. The two degrees may or may not be in the same subject of study.

Assume you've enrolled in a dual degree program in media and business. After graduation, you will be awarded a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Journalism. This popularity can be attributed to the numerous advantages of a dual degree in today's fast-paced and intensely competitive environment. Here are some examples of dual degree programs.

1. BA in Economics and BA in Political Science
2. Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor (JD)
3. BS in Biology and BS in Chemistry

Pros of Dual Degree Programs

1. Double degree programs help you acquire in-depth knowledge and cultivate practical skills in two distinct fields, culminating in two complementary qualifications.
2. Double degree programs expand your career horizons by equipping individuals with versatile skills.
3. You may become eligible for managerial positions.

Cons of Dual Degree Programs

1. Dual degree programs not only demand additional financial and time investments but also necessitate navigating two distinct admission processes, which can be administratively burdensome.
2. Dual degree programs do not inherently assure a higher starting salary.

What is a Double Major?

Students pursuing a double major simultaneously earn degrees in two academic disciplines without significantly increasing their credit requirements. With careful planning, you can complete a double major without extending your time in school. Double-degree courses surely help you develop a well-rounded skill set. You can opt for dual degree programs if you’re seeking diverse graduate education. Here are some examples of double majors.

1. Engineering and Business
2. Psychology and Economics
3. Environmental Science and Public Policy

Pros of Double Major

1. Double-degree courses enable you to explore two academic disciplines without incurring additional tuition expenses.
2. Double-degree courses prevent over-specialisation in a single subject area, paving the way for diverse academic and professional prospects.
3. Double-degree courses can allow students to pursue triple majors.

Cons of Double Major

1. Certain employers may not consider double majors significantly, especially when one of the double degree courses is unrelated to the specific job.
2. Students might require additional time to complete their academic programs without meticulous class scheduling.

Difference Between Dual Degree Programs and Double Degree Courses? 

1. Dual Degree Programs: Separates as two equal degrees
2. Double Degree Courses: Results in one degree, with 2 different areas of specialization (majors).

With so many types of degrees available in the UK alone, a dual degree may be the ideal option if you know what vocation you want to follow before starting college. It can hasten the completion of advanced degrees or degrees that complement one another. Either option can impress potential employers by exhibiting your high level of desire and education.

However, if you are unsure about your future goals, you can pursue a double major later in your academic career. This also allows you to take a variety of directions.

How Do Dual Degree Programs Work?

The biggest advantage is saving time. You would have spent less time if you had pursued two degrees separately. Learning about diverse specialties and subjects makes you more talented, giving you an advantage over others. If you can maintain academic rigor, there are various advantages to pursuing a dual degree program. Earning dual degrees could be very beneficial to your professional success.

1. Accelerated education - Earning a bachelor's degree first, then a master's degree could take six or more years to complete sequentially. Still, it could take only four if you can work on both simultaneously. It is also feasible to expedite the completion of two bachelor's degrees or two higher-level degrees. A more rapid degree completion can save you both time and money.
2. Improved skills - You can become an expert in two subject areas. This may provide access to new employment alternatives, set you apart from rivals, and increase your earning potential.
3. Dual degree programs may impress potential employers because they can be highly prestigious and competitive.

How Do I Choose a Dual-Degree Program?

If you have a specific college in mind, look into their dual degree programs. Many universities offer a variety of dual-degree opportunities. For instance, the University of Pennsylvania has several dual-degree opportunities, and 30% of Wharton School of Business students graduate with multiple degrees from Penn. Other institutions allow students to design their dual-degree pathways and personalize their curriculum.

Consider your job objectives and how a dual degree or double major can help you grow. For instance, students who want to become lawyers might decide to double major in pre-law, history, English, or politics. An alternative is a combined BS in Computer Science and MBA degree, an option for students who desire to create their own software company.

A dual degree can help you take advantage of several professional opportunities. For example, if these fields fascinate you, you might opt to major in both professional writing and international relations. Either you can find employment in either industry, or you can find employment uses of both skill sets.

How Do You Get Into a Dual-Degree Program?

Every school and program has a different application procedure. Candidates frequently need to apply to that specific dual-degree program rather than request general admission to the college or university since dual degrees have a strict curriculum to ensure students meet all credit requirements on time.

Many colleges offer universal admission to students pursuing bachelor's degrees, and they are afterward given the option to add a dual degree. By the beginning of their third year of enrollment, students choose a dual degree after commencing one program.

Popular Dual-Degree Programs

Two bachelor's degrees, a bachelor's degree, and a master's degree, or a graduate degree plus a professional degree are among the common outcomes of dual-degree programs. Although students typically have considerable flexibility, universities frequently restrict what is offered in dual-degree programs. Colleges may allow students to choose any two programs to combine or restrict students to only a few specified options. For more details, inquire with the school of your choice.

Bachelor's Dual Degrees

Dual Bachelor’s Degree Program

‍Two bachelor's degrees are available to students in this program. They include

1. Bachelor’s in Biology and Bachelor’s in Chemistry
2. Bachelor’s in Cognitive Science and Bachelor’s in Computer Science
3. Bachelor’s in Biology and Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Common Bachelor Dual Programs

1. BS in biology/BS in chemistry
2. BA in liberal arts/BFA
3. BA in business administration/BA in marketing
4. BSN/BS in healthcare management
5. BA in public health policy/BS in public health science
6. BS in computer science/BA in game design

Bachelor's-Master's Dual Degrees

Many colleges offer 4+1 programs, which enable students to complete both a bachelor's and a master's degree in five years (four years at the bachelor's level and one year at the master's level); however, specific possibilities vary by institution. Common academic specialities for this choice include business, computer science, nursing (BSN to MSN), and social work (BS/MSW).

Common Bachelor's-Master's Dual Programs

1. BA in political science/MPA
2. BS in public health/MPH
3. BS in social work/MSW
4. BA in international relations/MA in international affairs
5. BA in justice and law/MA in counterterrorism and homeland security

Graduate and Professional Dual Degrees

Graduate and Professional dual degrees that offer JD/MBA and MD/MBA programs are particularly well-liked because many doctors and lawyers go into private practice. A doctorate/MBA or MS/MBA is common in many professions, including biotechnology and pharmacology.

Common Graduate and Professional Dual Programs

1. MBA in public policy/MPP
2. MBA/MS in finance
3. MBA/MA in international relations
4. MBA/MS in information technology
5. MSN/MPH
6. MD in public health/MPH
7. MD/MBA

Is a Dual Degree Right For You?

How would you know if a Double Degree is better for you? You must consider two main considerations if you want to take a dual degree program.

To pursue a dual degree program, you must consider two major factors. Your great interest in your chosen fields comes first and is likely the most essential. This is because a strong interest motivates and keeps you focused on academics. One degree could be difficult enough to complete. A student may get more worn out if they pursue two degrees concurrently. Course requirements and materials may vary slightly from one course to the next. You'd have to focus and have a lot of willpower to stay on track.

The second crucial factor is feasibility. This applies to both time and money. Many graduates still owe money on their loans, as you would have surmised from the data on average debt in the United States. A dual degree course would undoubtedly help you stand out from the crowd. Additionally, you can earn your degrees faster than if you pursued them independently. You might need more time to complete your degree than someone pursuing one.

Getting two degrees separately can be the best option if getting a good job immediately after graduation (or even while you're still in school) is a top priority. To be able to afford a second degree, you might need to start saving money. Some businesses do not require a degree as well. You might as well obtain a job and pursue part-time education if you are naturally talented and passionate about the type of employment they offer. Further along in your career, it could be simpler to earn a second degree in a different or related profession.

Advantages 

1. Obtaining a dual degree may open up more job opportunities. Graduates with two bachelor's degrees can work in multiple fields, while those with a bachelor's and a master's degree can find more specialized employment.
2. Students who enroll in a combined bachelor's-master's program can complete their degrees in five years rather than six.
3. Due to the somewhat demanding nature of their programs, dual-degree students frequently become very proficient time managers.
4. Graduates with knowledge and expertise in many but related subjects may be more appealing to job applicants.

Disadvantages

1. Earning dual degrees compels students to enroll in a more demanding course. High levels of stress might be felt by students who are attempting to gain a lot of credits in a short period.
2. Students can be forced to adhere to a more rigid timetable with less latitude to retake subjects or choose unrestricted electives. The biggest disadvantage can be less flexibility.

Things to consider when choosing the best dual degree combinations

When choosing the best dual degree combinations, several crucial factors must be considered to make informed decisions. These include:

1. Evaluate your interest and passion
2. Consider your long-term career objectives
3. Prepare yourself for a potentially heavier academic workload
4. Assess if there is any overlap in course requirements between the two disciplines
5. Understand the financial implications

Tips for Choosing Between Dual Degree Vs Double Major

Participating in dual degree and double major programs provides the opportunity to delve deeply into two subjects. If you're stuck between the tug of dual degree vs double major, then consider the following tips:

1. Define your long-term career aspirations
2. Explore the specific requirements of dual degree and double major programs 
3. Examine time commitment
4. Research the potential career prospects
5. Reflect on how each choice contributes to your personal growth and skill development

As you explore and apply to dual degree programs, it's important to think carefully about what you hope to accomplish from your grad school experience. We hope this blog has helped you better understand dual degree programs and the world of opportunities it brings along. You can take advantage of these programs as you consider your next steps to boost your career! With amber, you can find more information on various topics to help make your university lifestyle fun and much simpler! You can also read our blog on Diploma vs Degree to know more.