Key takeaways
- A double major allows students to focus on two disciplines, related or unrelated, simultaneously. For example, English and Literature (related) or Biology and Music (unrelated).
- Pursuing a double major has plenty of benefits, including preparing you for a specific career, broadening your knowledge in two subjects, opening up more job opportunities, and even strengthening your graduate school applications.
- Double majoring involves a heavier workload; therefore, it’s important to devise a plan with your academic advisor to make sure it’s realistic for you, avoid scheduling conflicts, and keep you on track to graduate.
While studying up on different college majors, you may have come across the term double major and wonder if it’s as intense as it sounds. In short, a double major means completing two full majors at one time. Unlike a minor, which typically requires around 18 credit hours, a double major requires you to complete all required coursework for both fields in order to earn your degree.
For some students, earning a double major can be incredibly rewarding and open new job opportunities. Let’s look at how double majors work, their pros and cons, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
What is a double major?
Interested in pursuing two fields of study? A double major means you complete all required coursework for two majors while earning one degree with both majors listed (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology). While some students choose to double major in related fields that support each other, like Business and Finance, other students study two different fields of interest, like Psychology and Engineering.
Pros and cons of a double major
Is pursuing a double major the right choice for your educational career? It depends on your goals and interests. Here are a few pros and cons of choosing this route:
| Pros | Cons |
| Prepares you for a niche career: If you are interested in a very specific career, a double major can help you build specialized knowledge across two fields. For example, a double major in marketing and psychology may be useful for a role in consumer behavior and market research. | You may not graduate on time: More classes and workload can mean you have to push back your graduation date. Graduating on time can still be done, but it requires specific planning with your academic advisor. |
| More career options: With a double major under your belt, you may qualify for roles in multiple fields. | Heavier courseload: Those who double major often take more classes each semester, which can increase stress and leave less time for extracurriculars. |
| Broadens your knowledge: Fully studying two subjects you’re interested in allows you to develop a broader range of skills and gain experience in multiple areas. | Less free time: With more required courses on the schedule, many students find that there is not enough time to pursue their interests, spend time with friends, or simply relax. |
| Can strengthen graduate school applications: Earning a double major can show graduate schools that you take initiative and are committed to your education. | Scheduling conflicts: Planning schedules can become complicated if certain classes are offered at the same time or once a year. |
Popular double majors
What double major you choose to pursue will depend on your interests and career goals. While some students choose to double down and select two related majors, others may pick two completely unrelated majors. Here are some common double majors among students:
- Criminal Justice and Psychology
- Economics and Engineering
- Economics and Mathematics
- Economics and Marketing
- A foreign language and Business
- A foreign language and International Studies
- A foreign language and Political Science
Double major FAQs
How common are double majors?
Double majoring may not be the most common path, but it is also not unusual. Some reports suggest that 10-25% of students work towards earning a double major.
Why should I double major?
A double major can help you narrow your focus toward a particular position, keep your options open, or just explore two subjects you are genuinely passionate about. Pursuing a double major can also give you an edge on competitors when entering the workforce. Having the skill set and experience of two majors could set you up for higher earnings right out of college.
Which majors do I choose?
When choosing your double major, start with your primary major first. This can often help guide you toward deciding what your second major will be. You’ll also want to consider your career goals so that your second major helps shape and refine your professional journey.
How do I declare a double major?
If you’re considering a double major, it’s best to talk to your advisor and review the course requirements for both majors. They can help you determine if the combination is realistic. From there, you will want to create a clear plan to help you avoid scheduling conflicts and stay on track for graduation.
How will I manage stress?
Maintaining two majors could possibly take a toll on the amount of stress you deal with, which can affect your grades in the long run. Before you take on a double major, be sure you realistically map out your classes and any other extracurricular activities that you are a part of. How many hours will you take every semester? Will you enroll in summer courses? Is it practical to try to stay within the four-year graduation plan? If you do decide to go for it, start planning early to save yourself some strife.
What do I get from this?
Earning a double major can be incredibly rewarding, especially if it aligns with your long-term career goals. Beyond this, you may broaden your knowledge, expand your career options, or feel more prepared for a niche role in an industry.
How do I make the most of my double major?
Time management will be essential when pursuing a double major, as the workload can be demanding. Outside of the classroom, it is also important to build relationships with other professionals and look for internships that are related to your majors.
Is declaring a double major right for you?
The answer depends on your goals and interests. Choosing the right pair of majors is all about your long-term goals and what you want your career to look like. Take some time to consider the pros and cons of double majoring.
Thinking about double majoring? You’ll want to do it at the college that’s the best fit for you. Use College Raptor’s College Match tool to discover personalized college matches, cost estimates, acceptance odds, and potential financial aid for schools around the U.S.—for FREE!
