If you are a student who is interested in more than one major and don't mind taking extra classes during the regular semesters and summer, then a double major may be for you.
A double major is where you obtain a degree with two majors being acknowledged and fulfilled. You would take the classes required for each major simultaneously during your college career.
There are pros and cons of doing a double major, so take them into consideration as you go about choosing a college major.
Recommended Resources:
Pros and Cons of a Double Major
Benefits of a Double Major
- Learn More and Become More Well-Rounded: Since you are double majoring in two different subjects, you are gaining more knowledge than the average college student and can experience how the two disciplines can relate to each other.
- Double Majoring in Related Subjects: If you double up in two similar majors and take a classes over the summer semesters, you can still graduate in four years with two majors. Majoring in related subjects is easier as you can usually fulfill courses that are needed for both majors.
- Make Yourself More Valuable: By double majoring, you are making yourself more valuable once you graduate from college. If you decide to double major in Finance and Economics, then you will show potential employers how disciplined and innovative you are and that you can handle the extra workload. If you double major in two different subjects, such as English Literature and Math, then you are proving that you are well educated in two totally different subjects. This is especially helpful to aspiring teachers as you will be more marketable when you are applying for that first teaching job.
Disadvantages of a Double Major
- More Work: No matter how closely related your two majors are, you will definitely have to be prepared to take on the extra workload. You will be taking more classes and possibly attending summer semester as well, unless you want to stretch your college career into five or six years.
- May Take Longer to Graduate: Unless you plan on taking courses during your summer breaks, you will probably graduate a year or two later than the normal four years. Remember that college majors usually include four semesters worth of concentrated courses. By doubling up on your majors, you may add another year or two to your graduation date.
- Can Cost More Money: Taking extra classes means more money per credit and of course more books to purchase. If you are receiving any form of financial aid, such as grants, loans and scholarships, you should check to see if the money will cover your extra major.
If you are considering a double major, you really need to sit down and determine if you can handle the extra course load. If you have a part-time job or other obligations, the extra classes may become an interference. You want to be able to handle the extra credits as well as receive good grades. After all, is the double major really valuable if you barely passed any of the classes? For the student who can handle a large workload and holds great time management skills, a double major is a great opportunity to better your standing upon graduation.