Key Takeaways
- Dual degree and double major programs aren’t the same.
- No two dual degree programs are structured alike, so researching each one is essential.
- The best program is the one that fits your goals, not simply the one with two diplomas.
Many students have heard of double majors. Far fewer realize that some colleges offer the opportunity to earn two separate degrees from two different universities.
These dual degree programs can combine different academic disciplines, expose students to multiple campus communities, and create unique educational experiences. But they also vary dramatically in how they work, who they’re designed for, and what they require from students.
If you’re considering one, understanding those differences is just as important as understanding the opportunity itself.
Double Major vs. Dual Degree
Although students often confuse the two, double majors and dual degree programs are fundamentally different academic pathways.
Double major programs allow students who have completed requirements for two majors to list both under a single degree. Students typically complete additional major requirements while still earning a single bachelor’s degree.
On the other hand, dual degree programs allow students to earn two separate degrees from two programs through a single academic pathway. Students receive two separate degrees. But dual degree programs also require more coursework, more credits, and more time, with many taking up to five or six years to complete.
Many universities offer dual degree programs that exist fully within their institution and curriculum.
Other programs are partnerships between two separate universities where students learn and spend time on both campuses to receive one degree from each institution.
This blog focuses on two-institution dual degree programs to explore their different admissions processes, education structures, and student experiences.
How Dual Degree Programs Differ
Although all dual degree programs lead students toward two degrees, they can differ significantly in their admissions process, academic structure, timeline, and degree outcomes. Here are two categories that two-institution dual degree programs generally fall under:
Integrated Programs
Some dual degree programs are joint programs that require high school applicants to apply upfront.
For example, the Brown|RISD Dual Degree program requires first-year applicants to apply to both Brown and RISD, indicate their interest in the program and submit the same supplemental essay to both, and be admitted to both schools to get into the program.
On the other hand, the Sciences Po–Columbia Dual BA program uses a single application reviewed jointly by both institutions. (Learn more about international dual degree programs like this one here)
Integrated programs like these enroll you in both institutions and the dual degree program track from the beginning.
Sequential Programs
Other dual degree programs are sequential. You start at one institution, then become eligible to pursue a dual degree track later. These pathways give students the opportunity to build a liberal arts foundation before specializing at a partner institution.
3–2 engineering models are prominent examples of combined plans that typically have students spend three years at their home liberal-arts college, then spend two years studying at an engineering school.
For sequential programs, you apply and enroll in one university first, then later apply to a dual degree program with a partner school, usually after having completed certain prerequisites.
But how the years are divided between each institution may vary by program. For example, the Columbia Combined Program allows students to spend three to four years at their home university first, then complete two years of engineering school at Columbia. Alternatively, Dartmouth’s Partner School Dual-Degree Program gives students the option to either follow the standard 3-2 format, or spend the first two years at their home university before alternating between partner and home for the next three years.
In the end, some programs award two bachelor’s degrees, while others award one bachelor’s and one master’s from the two institutions.
Because no two dual degree programs are exactly alike, researching each program individually is essential. Don’t assume that one admissions process, timeline, or academic structure applies to every partnership.
Why Students Choose Dual Degree Programs
Students who thrive in dual degree programs aren’t just looking for the extra credential. They also take advantage of the unique educational experience and the value it provides.
Experience two academic environments
Study at two universities with different teaching styles, campus cultures, faculty, and resources.
Combine distinct interests
Pursue two disciplines that complement each other in ways a traditional major or double major may not.
Build a broader network
Develop relationships with professors, classmates, alumni, and career centers at both institutions.
Prepare for interdisciplinary careers
Graduates often leave with a broader perspective and a skill set that can apply across multiple industries or career paths.
The Tradeoffs to Consider
Still, students interested in dual degree programs have many tradeoffs to consider.
More time doesn’t always mean more value
Many programs require five years. Ask yourself whether the additional year is helping you reach goals you couldn’t accomplish in four.
Two institutions mean two sets of requirements
Balancing graduation requirements, advising systems, and course sequencing can require careful planning.
You’ll have less room to change course
Many dual degree programs have structured curricula, making it more difficult to switch majors or explore unrelated interests.
The financial equation is different for everyone
A fifth year can be worthwhile, but only if the academic and career benefits justify the additional cost. Financial aid policies also vary by program.
A dual degree isn’t automatically the better choice.
A second degree isn’t inherently more impressive. What matters is whether you’ve used the program to build meaningful knowledge, experiences, and skills.
Questions to Ask Before You Apply
Just as if you were weighing any other college or program, you need to ask yourself questions to decide if a dual degree path is right for you.
For example:
- Why do I want two degrees instead of one?
- Would a double major accomplish the same goal?
- Am I genuinely excited about both institutions, or just the prestige of the program?
- Am I comfortable following a structured academic plan for four or five years?
- Have I considered the financial and time commitment?
- If one of the two fields stopped appealing to me, would I still want this program?
Spend time researching programs and reflecting on your goals and interests.
Final Thoughts
Dual degree programs are unique, but they aren’t inherently better than traditional undergraduate pathways.
For the right student, they offer an opportunity to combine academic interests, experience two university communities, and graduate with a unique educational background. But for others, a double major or a traditional bachelor’s degree may provide similar opportunities and greater flexibility.
Don’t start by asking whether earning two degrees sounds impressive. Instead, reflect on how your goals and the program align.
Oftentimes, the best choice is not the most prestigious one; it’s the one that provides you the environment, resources, and opportunities to succeed.
