collageNew students usually face the dilemma of choosing the right college. They are also usually unsure of the major to pursue. With general education requirements or minor subjects, they initially immerse themselves in a well-rounded curriculum. Eventually, students are redirected to their true calling or preferred area of study.
If you’re like many others, you may want to explore multiple fields and are unable to decide. The answer: double majors!
Is a double major worth the effort, time, and investment? The answer is subjective. According to the Cambridge University Press‘ study, approximately 20% of college graduates have double major programs. Students pursuing a double major in STEM-related majors and business earned higher salaries than graduates with single majors.
Best Double Major Combinations
Accounting and Finance Double Major | Criminal Justice and Psychology Double Major
Business Administration and Accounting Double Major | Marketing and Communications Double Major
Accounting and Computer Information Systems Double Major | Economics and Supply Chain Management Double Major
Accounting and Economics Double Major | Supply Chain Management and Computer Information Systems Double Major
Political Science and Economics Double Major | Statistics and Economics Double Major
Art and Business Double Major | Law and Accounting Double Major
Philosophy and Political Science Double Major | Business and Communications Double Major
Economics and Finance Double Major
What of Double Majoring?
Almost every aspect of college has pros and cons, and evaluating whether to pursue a double major or not is not an exception. To help you decide whether a double major is a suitable option, consider the following pros and cons of double majoring.
The Pros of Double Majors
- Added Knowledge
It is to your advantage to gain every skill possible in your two fields of study. If you’re interested in Criminal Justice and have a penchant for Psychology, you can double-major so you do not overspecialize in a single subject only. Instead, you explore a diverse range of professional and academic opportunities—and find careers wherein both disciplines apply. Also, having a double major helps you eliminate fields that aren’t a good match for you!
- Better Networking Opportunities
By double majoring, you develop more personal relationships with professors, fellow students, and colleagues. Your social network broadens and so do your professional relationships. Snagging entry-level jobs after graduation is easier with connections in both fields.
- More Career Opportunities
Pursuing two subject areas offers you perspectives from both, making you an excellent employee in jobs that require more than just a single line of expertise. With more than one college major, shifting careers later on can be a breeze! Say, if you’re into event coordination, you can pursue Entrepreneurship and Business to increase your chances of being employed and start your own business when you’re ready!
- You Stand Out!
Specializing in two fields and obtaining comprehensive education says a lot about you! With expanded knowledge and more training, you become a better pick than most single-degree holders. You also make the impression that you possess the qualities every employer wants: a thirst for learning and determination.
The Cons of Double Majors
- Tuition Bloat
Depending on the double major options and your financial situation, you may have to expect more or less than your initial budget. If your program requires an additional semester, you’ll have to save up for the extra fees and other miscellaneous expenses.
- Extended Schooling
Double majoring means more time spent in school. You will also need to complete internships and take part in extracurriculars. It requires your commitment to attend and comply with the course requirements. If you want to complete your programs earlier than scheduled, taking a more intense course load is your option. Otherwise, you’ll be attending an extra semester or two.
- Time Management Issues
During junior and senior years, completing advanced courses can be a challenge. If your two majors overlap, you may have less time to explore other hobbies and interests.
- Split Focus
Study each subject with the same commitment and focus—but that’s easier said than done, right? Some students struggle with low GPAs, especially if you can’t find the balance between both majors. Chances are, you’re focusing too much on one major at the expense of the other!
Double Major vs. Dual-Degree: What’s the difference?
By definition, completing a double major means obtaining the required amount of credit hours in two majors. Students pursuing double majors accomplish one degree but with two specializations. On the contrary, students completing a dual-degree program will receive two separate degrees.
Dual degrees require higher tuition and take longer than traditional programs. Some dual-degree programs aren’t as expensive when completed simultaneously. Depending on the college and the program they choose, dual-degree students may have to settle with fixed classes or freely create their plan of study.
When choosing a professional path, dual-degree and double-major students must assess their long-term objectives. Future entrepreneurs, doctors, and lawyers are encouraged to enroll in dual-degree options to build up their skills and make them competent for graduate study, should they choose to enroll in any. Meanwhile, double majoring is an excellent choice for students pursuing careers in a certain specialization but not considering an advanced or graduate degree.
In a nutshell, here is a side-by-side comparison between double major and dual-degree programs.
| Double Major Options | Dual-Degree Programs | |
| Credit Requirements | The same total credits required for a single major program | 2 Bachelor’s/Bachelor-Master Degree: 150 creditsDual Master’s Program: 60 credits |
| Length | The same overall duration for a single-major program. | 2 Bachelor’s/Bachelor-Master Degree: 5 yearsDual Master’s Program: 3 years |
| Requirements | Depending on the school. Students are only required to accomplish the capstone requirements for one subject area. | Depending on the program. Students must complete capstone requirements and practicum for both degrees. |
| Result | A degree with two areas of concentration | Two separate degrees |
| Tuition | Depending on the college’s or university’s tuition rates. The same overall tuition for a single major program. | Depending on the tuition policy, tuition expenses are either higher or lower for overlapping courses. |
Double-Majoring Online: Is it possible?
Completing a double major program through online learning is possible! As with traditional double majors, you must meet the minimum standard requirements.
Colleges have different sets of double-major application, admission, and enrollment requirements. The University of Florida, for example, requires students to obtain approvals from both the Academic Advising Center and other departments at UFL.
Some double-major programs also offer the remote completion of the second major only, so make sure your school allows you to complete both majors online. Seek the help of your academic advisor to assess your capacity and create an appropriate plan of study.
Best Double Major Combinations
If you’re planning to pursue a double major program in college, we highlight everything you need to know regarding this unique venture! Here are the 15 Best Double Major Options you can pursue and the schools offering the programs.
Accounting and Finance Double Major
An Accounting and Finance double major focuses on organizational behavior, business fundamentals, marketing, and statistics. Graduates gain the skills to pursue their entrepreneurial ventures, manage their finances, and reduce financial risks.
Boise State University
Boise State University’s Accountancy and Finance blended major program allows students to “[complete] two majors instead of one by completing the exact same classes.” The school also presents students with the requirements for academic adjustments.
Northeastern University
Northeastern University’s Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting Management program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students must accomplish 120 semester hours under the NUpath learning format.
Champlain College
Champlain College offers a five-year double major in Finance and Accounting. Students must fulfill the 150-hour requirement to qualify for the Certified Public Accountant examination.
Criminal Justice and Psychology Double Major
Criminal Justice and Psychology double majors are an excellent starting point for careers in mental health treatment facilities and social services. Graduates work as correctional treatment specialists, rehabilitation counselors, or probation officers.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics discloses that the correctional treatment specialists and probation officers earn a median yearly wage of $54,290, with an employment outlook of 4% faster than average between 2019 to 2029. Counselors focusing on mental health, behavioral disorders, and substance abuse earn a median wage of $46,240 per year. These professionals also enjoy a promising job outlook with a 25% rate.
A dual major in Criminal Justice and Psychology program at Keystone College can be completed within four years, completing major requirements in both subjects. The program trains students for graduate school degrees in Social Work, Law, Counseling, Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Sociology.
Molloy College offers three methods to combine a Criminal Justice and Psychology major – either declare a Psychology and Criminal Justice double major, integrate a Forensic Studies track, or combine a BS/MS program. To graduate, students must have 128 credits regardless of the method they combine these majors.
Business Administration and Accounting Double Major
Regardless of the size of organizations and businesses, accountants’ skills are indispensable! They prepare financial statements and create solutions.
A double major in Business Administration and Accounting is common these days. Graduates can identify market errors, create business plans, and reduces risks. They know the ins and outs of business communications, marketing, law, and ethics. With these skillsets, you’ll find many businesses relying on your expertise and judgment.
Chapman University has a Bachelor of Science program with an Accounting and Business Administration double major. Students must complete the 67-credit requirement in the BS in Accounting degree and 18-credit hour Business electives to complete the program.
University of Southern Maine’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Accounting major requires 15 credits to fulfill the Advanced Accounting concentration. With an Advanced Accounting major, students can sit for the Certified Public Accountant exam. They must also meet the 150-credit hour requirement for licensure as a CPA in Maine and other states.
Marketing and Communications Double Major
In a digitally-connected world, having a double major in Marketing and Communications results in profitable careers! It’s an established fact that businesses today rely on the power of social media to advertise their products and services.
Do you want to become a social media manager or PR manager? A Marketing and Communications double major is an excellent option. These disciplines typically overlap, and professionals usually gain the skills in both and find them applicable to their careers. It is an excellent combination for graduates pursuing careers like marketing, branding, PR, external communications, or internal communications specialists.
Students pursuing an Advertising and Marketing Communications double major at Wesleyan College must fulfill the capstone requirement before completing the program. As part of the culminating experience, they work as a team and collaborate with non-profit organizations and startups to create a marketing plan with supplementary marketing materials and graphics.
University of Pennsylvania
(Wharton School)
The University of Pennsylvania features an undergraduate Marketing and Communications dual concentration program. The program allows Wharton students to accomplish four courses in UPenn’s Annenberg School of Communication and have the courses clustered as a second concentration.
Accounting and Computer Information Systems Double Major
Double-majoring in Accounting and Computer Information Systems keeps students on top of the evolving computer applications and technologies used in businesses. This double major leads to lucrative careers in accounting, finance, and IT industries, developing and maintaining computer applications for financial data management.
The University of San Diego offers an Accountancy major curriculum paired with an Information Systems/Technology major. To graduate from the program, students must fulfill the 15-credit core requirement combined with a set of electives from both accounting and information technology management areas. The option doesn’t fulfill the requirements to sit for the CPA examination in California.
The 120-credit hour Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Information Systems can be supplemented with an undergraduate for-credit certificate. With a BSBA in Information Systems, graduates can pursue a 4+1 Bachelor and Master of Science program, provided they fulfill the requirements.
Economics and Supply Chain Management Double Major
Supply Chain Management deals with the flow of goods and supplies, while Economics studies the scarcity of goods. These disciplines are both essential to business processes—from raw-material to finished-product stages. Students also become experts in logistics and economics. In an e-commerce driven world, Supply Chain Management-Economics double majors work in the operations management and procurement divisions in businesses and organizations.
The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland offers an undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management. The 4-year program integrates an Economics major into its curriculum, totaling 120 credit hours for graduation.
Duquesne University’s Palumbo-Donahue School of Business offers numerous majors to choose from, including a double major in economics and supply chain management. With a Supply Chain Management major, students can integrate one out of eight majors into the general curriculum.
Accounting and Economics Double Major
Accounting and Economics double major students learn to integrate abstract reasoning and logic when identifying complex economic or accounting challenges that require resolutions.
Accounting and Economics are evident in all types of businesses. Regardless of the size, every company must submit accurate financial data in compliance with the IRS guidelines and create strategic plans for the future. Graduates become critical thinkers and effective problem solvers—the skills people can utilize in any job!
Elmhurst University’s Accounting major is a four-year undergraduate program that features Macroeconomics and Microeconomics courses that fulfill the requirements of an Economics major. Students pursuing this double major option must complete the 150 credit hours to sit for the Certified Public Accountant examination.
Students pursuing an Economics-Accounting double major at Claremont McKenna College can still combine another study area, emphasizing interpersonal, effective communication, and analytical skills. Some of the courses they take include Tax Planning, Business Law, Accounting for Decision Making, Strategic Cost Management, and Accounting Data Analytics.
Supply Chain Management and Computer Information Systems Double Major
A double major in Supply Chain Management and Computer Information Systems offers comprehensive insights into the fundamentals of logistics, information technology, and economics. This option is ideal in pursuing a career in the purchasing, procurement, and logistics departments.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Gies College of Business has a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management program and is one of the popular options for a double major option. The program is a member of the Illinois Supply Chain Management Corporate Affiliates Program, with students receiving comprehensive support and capstone project sponsorships from corporations in the study of supply chain management.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Bryan School of Business and Economics at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and Supply Chain Management that requires 125 credit hours for graduation. Students pursuing this double major option can customize their degree by choosing one out of four concentrations, namely Supply Chain Management, Information Systems, Cyber Security, and Business Analytics.
Political Science and Economics Double Major
Another popular double major combination is that of Political Science and Economics. Almost every business aspect thrives on economic fundamentals, so it’s wise to decide for Economics as a second major! Economics applies to real-world scenarios, too. They equip students with the skills to make investment decisions and evaluate consumer habits carefully and thoroughly.
Students pursuing a Political Science-Economics double major also offer their unique skillset and expertise in economic legislations, local/state/federal budgets, and other fiscal concerns.
Indiana University Bloomington
Indiana University Bloomington offers a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science interdepartmental major program. With this double major option, students work with a political science faculty and economics faculty to help them fulfill the program’s mandatory requirements.
One of the common double major options at the University of Missouri is a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Political Science concentration. To qualify, students must initially discuss their intention of pursuing a double major and ask the approval from an academic advisor.
Statistics and Economics Double Major
Statistics dominate the world of commerce. If you decide on studying Statistics, the more quantitative knowledge you must acquire to keep up! A Statistics and Economics double major lands you lucrative career opportunities in computational finance and financial engineering.
Through the Department of Economics, the University of Pittsburgh offers a Bachelor of Science in Economics-Statistics degree consisting of three major components: statistics, mathematics, and economics. A total of 62 credits is required for program completion.
Before completing a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Statistics at Carnegie Mellon University, students must first meet the 38- to 39-credit prerequisites. To complete their degree, students must have a minimum of three courses for each major subject.
Art and Business Double Major
Business is one of the safest and most popular options in a dual major. And one of the wisest choices to pair business study with is Art! If you have creative abilities and a penchant for artistic ventures, a Business major can help you carve out that career path.
Because Arts-related majors don’t integrate business fundamentals into their curriculum, an Art and Business double major results is a great option! It develops students’ proficiency in the areas of economics, business management, statistics, accounting, finance, and marketing.
Interior Design or Graphics Design majors can also complement their creative skills with a business major. They can utilize their skill set to serve their clients and eventually start their own company or business.
St. Thomas University’s Bachelor of Arts in Business with a Business Studies specialization is suitable for adult students who are practicing their profession. The 21-credit hour program requires students to complete Marketing Management, Project Management, Operations Management, and Principles of Business and Environmental Administration courses.
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Students pursuing a BA/BS degree through the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters can integrate business studies as a second major. Through the program, students can choose one out of five concentration requirements, namely Psychology, Entrepreneurship, Economics, Communications, and General Business.
Law and Accounting Double Major
Like Business, Accounting is a flexible double major option that you can combine with just about any subject. Another double major option combined with accounting is Law. A Law and Accounting double major is excellent for students interested in working in the financial compliance field. If students plan to attend law school or prepare for the CPA examination, a double major in Law and Accounting is perfect, too! Tax law, for instance, is one branch of law and is an emerging sector in the labor market.
Drexel University has an accounting major combined with other specializations offered through the LeBow College of Business. The 180-credit hour undergraduate accounting major requires students to pass three writing-intensive courses, with two courses in the related major and one course in a subject area of their choice.
California State University Northridge
California State University Northridge’s David Nazarian College of Business and Economics requires students to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and accomplish 140 credit hours of both majors to pursue a double major option. All Business majors have 19 units of upper-division core courses and 27 units of lower-division core courses.
Philosophy and Political Science Double Major
The study of philosophy provides students with a comprehensive history of philosophy and the philosophers paving how society perceives philosophical concerns and issues. Aside from that, they also discover ethical concerns associated with philosophy. On the contrary, political science deals with studying the different types of government and how political systems apply. Having a philosophy and political science double major offers students an in-depth understanding of political strategies’ ethical repercussions and the diverse factors to be considered when proposing political actions and resolutions.
Boston University
Boston University features a Philosophy and Political Science Joint Major program that requires a minimum of six courses for each major. Students must take core required courses, such as History of Ethics, History of Modern Philosophy, and History of Ancient Philosophy. Aside from that, they have the option to choose political science-related courses.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Pursuing a major in Philosophy at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is one of the most flexible components of a double major study. Students interested in pursuing this double major must require an academic advisor’s assistance through the ClearPath for Advising program at UTC.
Business and Communications Double Major
Indeed, communication is key. Without communication, every aspect of a business is crippled and useless! Like Business, Communications is a go-to degree option for undecided students. Pairing up Business with Communications gives students the best of both worlds.
One of the crucial aspects of communication is research and analysis; thus, students should effectively support and develop ideas with reputable sources or proof. Besides learning the theory of communication, you should also coherently formulate ideas and articulate them through detailed papers, speeches, debates, presentations, or research.
With almost everything advertised on social media, pursuing a business and communications double major helps you craft effective marketing strategies to advertise your products and services.
Aquinas College
Aquinas College offers a Business Administration and Communication Dual Major program that requires 57 semester hours for graduation. Aside from completing courses, students must also fulfill the requirements of the 3-credit hour Cases in Business Policy senior capstone course.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
More than a third of the journalism majors at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication accomplish a second major. Students pursuing a second major must complete elementary-level courses in the specific major during the first and second years of study. One of the common double majors at the university includes business and communication arts.
Economics and Finance Double Major
If you love to buy, sell or trade in the stock market, pursuing an Economics-Finance double major is your perfect combination. Without a doubt, many people consider economics as the mother of finance. From a quantitative and qualitative perspective, Economics offers a critical understanding of the financial markets in general. With cryptocurrency emerging, a double major in economics and finance is an excellent starting point for students interested in investment banking, hedge funds, and other related ventures.
Westfield State University
The Bachelor of Science in Finance and Bachelor of Arts in Economics Double Major degree at Westfield State University requires 36 credit hours for completion. Elementary Statistics, Microeconomic Theory, Macroeconomic Theory, Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, and Introduction to Mathematical Economics are some of the program’s required courses. Besides core required courses, students must have a minimum of six credits of economic-related courses that aren’t required in the Finance concentration.
The University of Texas at Dallas
The University of Texas at Dallas’ Bachelor of Science in Finance can be combined with an Economics degree program, requiring 120 credit hours for graduation. Students must complete 100 hours of community service and an internship program. The university help students find internship opportunities through the Career Center and the Career Management Center at the Naveen Jindal School of Management.
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