For some students, college is the time to figure out what career they would like to pursue or what field they might prefer to specialize in. However, many students already know what they want to do — for these students, a dual degree may be a helpful option to save time and money on their way to a great career.
In this guide, we will look at the dual degree, meaning whether it makes sense for your academic and career goals, and find out if it is the right option for you.
A dual degree means you study for an undergraduate and graduate degree at the same time, like with a 4+1 program in engineering, for example. (A 4+1 program may also be called a five-year master’s program, depending on the university or college.)
There are many different types of dual degree and accelerated programs, but they all share a few benefits. With this type of degree program, you can:
Complete undergraduate and graduate coursework in less time
Save money on tuition, housing, and books by finishing school faster
Specialize in one or more areas of study so you can apply to jobs sooner
Next, let us take a deeper look at what is a dual degree and the difference between a dual degree and a dual major.
What Is a Dual Degree?
As mentioned, a dual degree or accelerated degree is a program that allows you to complete both the undergraduate and master’s level degrees in less time than the traditional path — usually five years, instead of six or seven. In some cases, a dual degree can also mean earning two degrees in related or even distinct fields at the same academic level, such as two bachelor’s degrees or two master’s degrees.
Many schools now offer dual degree and accelerated degrees in a variety of subjects, like English, nursing or premed, and business. If you already know you want an advanced degree in a particular subject, be sure to find out what your school offers.
Dual Degree vs Double Major: Is there a Difference?
A dual degree is different from a double major, which is the ability to specialize in two areas of study within your undergraduate degree. With a double major, you study two subjects, but graduate with just one degree — for example, a double major means a student studies for a bachelor’s degree majoring in both computer science and mathematics.
While a dual degree or accelerated degree may be a great fit for some students, other students may feel that a double major is a better option. Both pathways offer valuable opportunities to grow academically and prepare you for your future. However, a dual degree program can provide a broader academic experience and greater flexibility in your career path. If you are considering this option, it is important to understand how a dual degree can support your long-term goals.
Let us explore the key advantages of pursuing a dual degree.
Advantages of Pursuing a Dual Degree
In today’s fast-changing and competitive job market, students are constantly looking for ways to stand out. One effective option is pursuing a dual degree. A dual degree program offers several advantages, including the potential to save time and money, build a broader knowledge base, and have more robust credentials compared to other job applicants.
Broader Skill Set
With a dual degree, you can study two different (or related) subjects at the same time, giving you the chance to build a more well-rounded and customized academic experience. By combining fields that interest you, you will graduate with a unique mix of knowledge and skills that can help you stand out.
If you are interested in international public health, for example, you could earn dual degrees in international relations and pre-med, and qualify for roles at international think tanks, health organizations, and the like. Want to encourage the next generation of coders? Combine a computer science degree with a degree in education, and you’ll qualify for roles as a software engineer, computer science professor, or researcher. The possibilities are many – and US universities will encourage you to be both creative and ambitious.
Increased Job Opportunities
A dual degree can expand your career options across multiple industries. For example, if you study both engineering and music, you will have the flexibility to apply for roles in either field or even explore careers that blend both, especially in the music and entertainment industry. This wider range of opportunities can make your job search more exciting and rewarding, and with your specialized skills, may increase your earning power over the course of your professional life.
Competitive Advantage in the Job Market
Graduating with two degrees, whether at the undergraduate level or through a combined bachelor’s-to-master’s program, can help set you apart from other candidates. Employers may see your dual degree as a sign of dedication, versatility, and a strong work ethic, giving you a competitive advantage over graduates with a single degree.
Interdisciplinary Knowledge
Dual degree graduates gain specialized expertise across multiple subject areas and explore how different subject areas connect. This kind of interdisciplinary knowledge can give you a deeper perspective and prepare you for complex challenges in your future career.
Expanded Professional Network
While pursuing a dual degree, students will have the opportunity to work with and study under a larger network of professionals and lecturers, and these connections can help build a stronger professional network and may lead to future opportunities, internships, or collaborations.
Flexibility in Career Paths
With a dual degree, you are not limited to one career path. A dual degree provides flexibility to explore diverse roles and industries at any point in your career without needing to return to school.
How Does a Dual Degree Save Money?
We all know college is expensive — there is tuition, housing, food, books, transportation, and more added to your bill. And because many costs tend to increase over time, every year you spend in school means more costs for you and your family. Earning your degrees at once, in less time, is a great way to save money.
Let us look at an example:
Louisiana State University offers an accelerated law degree which students complete in six years — three in undergraduate, three in law school. Here’s how it works: Junior-year students who meet LSU Law Center’s entrance requirements are able to apply for accelerated program admission. If they are accepted, students are then eligible to begin studying at the LSU Law Center during their fourth year/senior year at LSU, and completed coursework counts toward both the final undergraduate degree year and the first year of the law degree.
One undergraduate credit hour costs $1,674 for non-residents (those who do not live in Louisiana). An undergraduate degree requires a minimum 94 credits, which would cost a non-resident $157,356, followed by three years of law school. Using a ballpark 33 credits taken over this last undergraduate year that are also applied to the first year of law school, this could save the student approximately $55,000 in tuition and fees, not to mention an extra year of housing, food, transportation, and books.
Keep in mind that pursuing a dual degree or accelerated degree saves money over time, and not necessarily up front. For instance, if a student is interested in a MS in Computer Science at Florida International University, they can apply to the accelerated program and complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees at once. However, if they cannot make the commitment to pay for both degrees in the accelerated program, it may be more cost-effective for this student to complete the degrees more slowly, at the traditional pace. When looking at the costs of a dual-degree program, the value and affordability will depend on your particular financial circumstances.
Can International Students Earn a Dual Degree in the US?
Yes, international students can pursue dual degrees in the US. Many Shorelight universities offer dual degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, giving you the opportunity to explore multiple fields and build a more versatile academic foundation.
If you are not sure where to start and need help finding the right program that aligns with your personal and career goals, a Shorelight advisor can help you find the right program and guide you every step of the way.
Study at the Best US Universities with Shorelight
For many students, a dual degree or accelerated degree offers the chance to save money and time while getting a head start on their career.
No matter which academic path you choose, college is an exciting time to learn more about yourself and begin to think about your career. If you need help finding the right program, Shorelight advisors can help. Our experienced advisors will work with you, providing research and resources so you can find the best-fit program for your goals.
Speak with a Shorelight advisor today to start planning your next steps toward studying in the US >