You’re probably here because you want to know about the cost of double majoring. Or maybe you’re here because you’re interested in discovering if it’s worth it to double major. Either way, this article provides answers to your questions.
According to research, about 40% of college and university students in the United States pursue double majors.
The information you’ll find on our page is relevant to any student planning on pursuing more than one degree—whether your interests are in STEM or humanities. I also provide helpful tips to help you excel while pursuing a double major.
What is a Double Major?
A double major is when you simultaneously earn two degrees from the same school. For example, if you’re studying biology and Spanish, you’d have a double major in both subjects. You’d be able to use your knowledge in one field for your other studies.
Double majoring is a great way to explore your academic interests and get a second degree, but it’s not for everyone. Double majoring is a common thing among college students. But, some question the benefits of doubling majoring. Read on to learn more.
What are the Benefits of Having a Double Major?
1. Potential for higher earnings
To double major, you will have to work harder in school because you will take more classes per semester. You might need to study harder and think about staying on top of the work due dates, but the benefits outweigh the extra time and effort required.
Double majors provide you with more options for careers and higher earnings potential. This opens up new doors to employment in varied fields.
2. Explore different passions and stand out
Double majoring can be a great way to stand out in your future workplace. It allows you to explore different passions that are important to you and something else altogether besides your major.
Double majoring can feel like exploring new parts of your personality. It opens the door to additional enrichment and exploration of your passions. It also allows you to develop an identity that stands out from others.
3. Back up plan for your career
A double major provides options to a student before they enter the workforce. Students with a double major can study subjects that can be used in many different ways.
So, it could be something like art or music, and then you go into accounting, or maybe even engineering or computer science.
After college, you may need flexibility in your resume based on what employers expect. This is a good option for new graduates and benefits older individuals interested in switching their major from one field to another.
4. Get the most out of your tuition
Double majoring can help you get the most out of your tuition. Accounting, finance, and business all share similar classes; some are even offered on the same day.
If you have a double major and switch from one major to another, you may not even notice that you’re taking similar classes.
5. Additional skills and a better-rounded education
A double major can help you develop additional skills and a better-rounded education, which will help you advance your career.
A double major can also help you get more community involvement by participating in activities and organizations related to your second major.
Tips to Excel Regardless of the Cost of a Double Major?
Yes, going double major can be expensive sometimes. And the more you know about that “cost,” the more prepared you will be to make intelligent choices. Here are some tips to help you get through it and succeed:
1. Make a plan and stick to it
As a double major student, you must try your best to stick with your courses. Often, students will find it hard to stay on top of all the requirements set forth by their chosen majors and what they need to major in both programs.
If you struggle with keeping track of all coursework and assignments, it can be tough to try and balance double majors simultaneously. Many students can successfully handle double majoring by making a plan for all of their coursework.
You can then plan how to do each class’s assignment within the same amount of time every week, rather than piecemeal, as assignments come up throughout the semester.
If you follow this process from start to finish, it should be much easier to keep track of everything and still get everything done.
2. Look for complimenting majors
The cost of a double major can be hard to swallow, but it doesn’t have to be. Having one degree in science and another major that complements is the way to go. Look ahead at what majors may complete your passion and go after them.
For example, business and creative art majors are complementary majors. They teach you how to market yourself effectively, communicate well with others and build a strong work ethic.
3. Seek scholarships
One of the best tips for students to excel is to seek scholarships. There are many scholarships out there that can cover the cost of a double major. You should always check with the financial aid office to see if scholarships are available.
Find financial aid resources and scholarships to help offset some of the cost. Explore your options as they may be limited, and ensure that what you are eligible for aligns with your career goals.
4. Pay attention to your mental health
The cost of a double major could be the least of your concerns. It’s more important to consider how the decision will affect your mental health and whether you will be happy with the overall experience.
Pay attention to your mental health. If you feel overworked, overwhelmed, or exhausted with pressure to complete a considerable amount of assignments in a semester (especially if it’s an introductory level class), then you’re risking your mental health.
Not only is it essential that you take care of yourself because it’s vital for long-term success and personal well-being, but also because doing so can help you avoid burnout.
5. Keep your goals in mind
A vital step to doing your double major work is to set realistic goals. Know what you want to accomplish and how long it will take. The price of a double major may seem high, but the benefits are worth it.
Finding the right fit can be difficult, especially if you’re just starting. Many students find it challenging to decide what they want to major in or even how they want to study. However, with these tips and tricks, it will become a lot easier.
Does It Cost More to Double Major?
The short answer is yes, but this does not mean you should avoid a second major.
Some schools charge by the number of credits you take; others charge a flat fee for the semester. It is doubtful that you can finish a double major in four years, so you will probably have to pay for additional semesters.
Furthermore, it all depends on what you want to study, your time, and what kind of job you desire. If you don’t have much time to study and need a job that requires a lot of extracurricular activities, then perhaps a double major might not be the best idea for you.
On the other hand, if you have the time and know that your studies will get easier as you complete each degree, then maybe it’s worth spending more time on one than two. The decision is up to you.
Significant Challenges of Pursuing a Double Major
Double majors can be fun and rewarding, but they are not without their challenges.
The first challenge is the cost. Double majoring involves classes at least twice as large as you would take on your own.
Consequently, this means more time spent in the classroom and more money on tuition and fees. It’s also possible that your grades will suffer when you split your focus between two majors.
The second challenge is time management. Studying two different subjects can yield excellent results in terms of career opportunities or specialized knowledge.
However, it isn’t always easy to balance your study time with other activities such as family, friends, or hobbies—or even just rest.
Beyond that, other challenges come with taking on double majors. Some of them include extended graduation; focusing on two majors might result in lower grades.
Also, you may have stress deciding what classes to take when two of your majors overlap. You may also find it difficult to follow the requirements of both majors.
FAQs
Is it a good idea to pursue a double major?
Yes. Double majoring may be a good strategy for students who enjoy both disciplines and have strong academic interests.
You’ll likely receive an undergraduate degree in both majors, which means you’ll learn more about yourself and gain valuable skills.
How hard is it to pursue a double major?
Double majoring can be a challenging, expensive, and sometimes overwhelming experience, and it requires more time and effort.
I recommend taking on the challenge, getting used to the workload of both majors, and building up your endurance, so you aren’t worn out on the first day of class.
Do employers care about a double major?
Yes, employers care. Students who choose two majors face more challenges, which equip them to think creatively, work with a diverse team, and perhaps be better than their colleagues.
Employers want candidates who can work efficiently and effectively or provide additional knowledge to remain current in their field of study.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that the cost of a double major can be something that you need to think about before committing. But, if you are excited about getting two degrees, then it’s worth considering all of the benefits that come with it as well.
Finding a good fit with both majors can help focus and motivation, and building new skills in both areas will help your career.
Double majoring can be beneficial and enjoyable, even if a little pricey. You can take advantage of the free online courses offered by colleges to learn about new areas that interest you or add on other opportunities.
There are also scholarships available that can cover some of the costs. Finally, having more than one major will prove valuable when looking for jobs after graduation, as more positions require more than one skill set.
You can also learn more about what major means in education.
Thanks for reading.
