How to Double Major and is it Worth it? Guide

How to Decide What to Major In

College students face a seemingly unending series of decisions. The process begins when choosing a school and does not end until graduation. One of the biggest decisions involves picking a major. Students typically spend the first few years exploring different subjects. These general education requirements provide students with a well-rounded education and may also help guide them in a direction of study.

However, what happens if a student cannot decide or wants to pursue multiple disciplines? Many colleges and universities offer double majors or dual degree programs. The phrase may sound familiar, but what does it mean, and how does one go about pursuing a double major?

Why Earn a Double Major?

Some students choose to double major because they possess a passion for education and want to get the most out of their undergraduate experience. Others pick this option because they developed an interest in multiple subjects and want to stick with both. Still others see double majoring as an opportunity to specialize and gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Double majoring makes sense for students who plan on attending graduate school. Adding a second major provides more opportunities when pursuing an advanced degree. A student who picks two disparate majors gives themselves more options when it comes to areas of study in grad school. Those who pick two similar majors benefit as well. For example, an undergraduate who double majored in psychology and sociology stands a good chance of being accepted into a master’s program for social work.

Research suggests that double majoring can provide a financial boost. One study even found that innovation increases in students who double major. For this study, researchers defined “innovative” as a set of skills including networking, persuasive communication, working with diverse teams, and a willingness to take risks. The purported benefits also include an ability to connect diffuse material across different courses. Double majoring means taking classes in multiple disciplines, which can also increase one’s network.

The data varies, but roughly 20% of all college students decide to double major. That amounts to about one in four. Why so low? Well, simply put, double majoring adds a layer of difficulty. The rationale for double majoring varies from student to student. Even so, scholars who research higher education say double majors exhibit certain characteristics, including a desire to set and achieve goals.

How Do Credit Hours Work in Double Majors?

Double majoring does not necessarily mean more time in college. Careful planning and attention to detail can boost a student’s chances of finishing in four years. To start, students should work with their advisors to find out what courses work for both majors. Also, most schools require students to take about 30 credits worth of electives. Some of these classes can also satisfy major requirements.

Transfer students need to do a little more research. Most credits transfer if a direct transfer agreement exists between schools. Even so, transfers may not meet the required prerequisites for a major when they first start at a new institution. Students in this situation can opt to take these courses. Alternatively, students can contact an institution early in their academic career to determine which courses transfer and count as prerequisites. Of course, this only makes sense if the individual knows ahead of time where they want to transfer.

The UC San Diego, for example, follows many of the guidelines described above, but with some notable exceptions. Transfer students need to complete both majors within six quarters after coming to campus. Also, students need to get approval from the university’s undergraduate council if they want to pursue two majors within the same department. Bottom line: Students deciding to double major need to read the fine print.

Other Options

Students can seek other avenues besides a double major. For instance, students can choose to declare a minor. This approach offers some of the depth found in a major without as many courses. Those looking to develop a niche should consider specializing within their major. A chemistry major, for instance, could decide to specialize in biochemistry or organic chemistry.

Studying abroad offers students the chance to see the world while still taking classes. These programs often include a theme, such as the University of Texas’ Italian Approaches to Early Childhood Education program. Programs like these can serve as a great supplement to a student’s education. Finally, internships provide a means of connecting material learned in the classroom to the working world. Plus, they look good on a resume.

Tips for Managing a Double Major

Double majoring and busy schedules go hand-in-hand. Still, students need to see this as a marathon and not a sprint. First, get some sleep. Research shows a correlation between an inconsistent sleep schedule and a drop in GPA.Lack of sleepcan also cause stress, anxiety, and depression.

Students should also plan to incorporate exercise into their routine, and not just for physical health reasons. Running, biking, and other physical activities get endorphins flowing, which help relieve stress and anxiety. Wellness practices like yoga or meditation can also help students achieve similar benefits. Students should also make time in their schedule to socialize and hang out with friends. Lastly, double majors may consider taking time to do nothing. A growing body of research suggests that people benefit from taking regular brain breaks.

Many colleges and universities offer gyms and health centers with licensed medical professionals, including counselors. Most schools also offer some kind of academic support, such as tutors or advisors. These traditional options might not work for everyone, so students should consider alternatives. For example, students pursuing a double major may benefit from forming a regular study group with other students on a similar track.

Coming up with a schedule makes it easier to do things like exercise or take breaks to see friends. Fortunately, students receive a valuable tool to aid this process at the start of every quarter or semester. The syllabus outlines everything that happens in a class. Take a look and note the deadlines for tests and big assignments. Enter this information into a calendar to figure out the big picture. This helps in two significant ways. First, students can create a plan of what they need to study and when. Second, students can see the stressful times in advance and can proactively put together a stress-reduction plan.