Double Major

If you are a student who is interested in more than one major and you do not mind taking extra classes during the regular semesters as well as summer, then maybe you should consider a double major. A double major is where you would typically obtain one degree with two majors being acknowledged. You would take the classes required for each major simultaneously during your college career. Of course there are pros and cons to double majoring so be sure to consider them as you decide your course of action.

PROS

• Learn More: Since you are double majoring in two different subjects, then you are gaining more knowledge than the average college student.


• 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 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.


• Related subjects: If you double up in two subjects that are related and then take a few classes over the summers, you can still graduate in four years and with two majors. Related subjects are easier as you are taking classes that are probably needed for both majors; therefore you are not taking too many extra classes.

CONS

• More work: No matter how closely related your majors are, you will definitely have to be prepared to take on an extra workload. You will be taking more classes and probably during the summer as well, otherwise you would be stretching your college career to five or six years. You may also have to meet with more than one advisor as well as each major is assigned a specific advisor.


• Takes longer to graduate: Unless you plan on taking on a full course load during your summer and winter 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.


• Cost more money: Since you are taking on extra classes, that 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 evaluate if you can handle the extra course load. If you have a part-time job or other obligations, then the extra classes may be an interference. You should be able to handle the extra credits as well as receive good grades in the class. After all, is the double major degree really valuable if you barely passed any of the classes? Still, it can be a great opportunity for some students.