Students who plan ahead can often complete more than one major—or even more than one degree—without significantly extending their time to graduation.
It’s also common for students to earn one or more minors alongside their major. If you pursue multiple areas of study, you will be assigned an academic advisor in each department. Work closely with all of your advisors to make sure your course choices align, you stay on track and avoid taking unnecessary or duplicate coursework.
Double Majors
A double major means that you are completing two (or more) majors within the same degree. Examples include:
- A Bachelor of Arts (BA) with majors in Spanish and Geography.
- A Bachelor of Science (BS) with majors in Mathematics and Chemistry
Because only one degree is awarded, you only have to complete the General Education and degree‑level requirements once. Courses that satisfy those requirements apply to both majors, so you are not completing two separate sets of degree requirements—only two sets of major requirements.
Dual Bachelor’s Degrees
A dual degree means earning two separate bachelor’s degrees. This can happen in either of the following situations:
- The degrees are offered by two different colleges/academic units, or
- The degrees are offered within the same college, but they are different degree types (e.g., a BA and a BS).
Students pursuing dual degrees must meet all requirements for both degrees, which makes this option more intensive than a double major.
To find out which combinations are available and what is required, check the degree listings in the Undergraduate Catalog.
Degrees
Understanding the Difference
- If both majors fall under the same degree type (both BA or both BS), the correct term is a double major.
- If the majors span different academic units or different degree types, you must pursue a dual degree.
If you’re considering either option, talk with your academic advisor. They can help you understand the requirements, choose the best path and create a realistic graduation plan.