Hi everyone! I've been seeing this term 'dual degree' come up a lot while looking into potential colleges and I'm not really sure what it means. Can someone give me a simple explanation? How is it different from a double major? Thanks in advance!
Sure, happy to help clarify!
A dual degree program allows a student to study two different fields and earn two separate degrees, typically within a five to six year time frame. These are often interdisciplinary and can cross departmental or even institutional lines. For example, you might earn a Bachelor of Arts in English from one institution and at the same time earn a Bachelor of Science in Business from a partnered institution. You graduate from the program with two separate diplomas. It's pretty intense, as it involves completing the full sets of requirements for both degrees.
On the other hand, a double major is when you study two subjects within the same degree program, graduating with one degree. For example, you'd earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in English and History. This typically takes four years to complete, as you'd fulfill the requirements for both subjects under the umbrella of a single degree program.
Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on your education and career objectives. If they're diverse and you wish to gain comprehensive knowledge in two utterly different fields, a dual degree would be the way to go. If you want to have two areas of focus within the same field or complementing fields, a double major might be more appropriate. It might be good to discuss this with an academic advisor once you've chosen your school; they could provide guidance to help you select the right option for your goals and interests.
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