As major declaration season approaches at Franklin & Marshall College, many students, especially underclassmen, face a big decision: whether to pursue a double major. After looking further into a comprehensive study at the University of Bridgeport examining student academic paths, let’s discuss what this choice means for your college journey and future career.
What Is a Double Major?
According to the University of Bridgeport (UB), “a major is what you study, and a degree is what you earn.” When you double major, you “earn a single degree that encompasses two areas of study,” notes UB. At F&M, this means you’ll graduate with one degree that shows two areas of study on your diploma. With good planning, you can finish this path in the standard four years of college.
Money Matters:
One of the best parts about double majoring? It’s budget-friendly. As the University of Bridgeport explains, “When you choose a double major, you study both fields simultaneously at no additional charge.” This means you can get two areas of expertise for the price of one degree when taking classes here at F&M.
Career Benefits:
Having two majors can give you a significant edge in the job hunt, particularly when you have specific career goals in mind. For instance, if you’re aiming to work in environmental law, combining Environmental Studies with Government can provide targeted preparation. Or if you’re planning a career in international business, pairing Economics with Chinese Language and Culture could give you unique advantages.
The University of Bridgeport emphasizes that “adaptability and a strong work ethic are some of the most sought-after qualities in new hires,” and your double major demonstrates both. Having expertise in two fields shows employers you can:
- Master complex subject matter
- Handle multiple demanding responsibilities
- Think across multiple disciplines
- Bring innovative perspectives to problem-solving
“Double majors can enjoy a rich variety of professional opportunities without having to pursue a postgraduate degree,” UB adds. This is especially valuable if you’re targeting careers that value interdisciplinary knowledge. For example, a student combining Computer Science with Psychology might be particularly well-positioned for user experience design roles, while someone pairing Business with Spanish might have an advantage in international marketing positions.
For students with clear professional goals, the focused combination of two majors can provide exactly the competitive edge needed to stand out in their chosen field. As the University of Bridgeport notes, “For highly motivated students with specific career goals in mind, a double major can provide a competitive edge after graduation.”
The Academic Challenge:
While double majoring is doable in four years, it requires careful planning. “Many of your courses – especially during the latter half of your studies – will be intensive, upper-level classes,” warns the University of Bridgeport. You’ll need to:
– Map out your required courses early
– Make sure you are able to complete requirements for your prospective majors
– Keep up with F&M’s general education classes
– Take a full course load each semester
The Trade-offs:
Before agreeing, consider what you might give up. The University of Bridgeport notes that “choosing this degree path takes away from the traditional college experience.” Double majoring can limit your chance to:
– Try different elective courses
– Join as many campus activities
– Study abroad or take internships
– Have a flexible schedule
Other Options at F&M:
Not sure if double majoring is right for you? F&M offers several other paths:
- Major-minor combination: Choose a primary field of study (major) and complement it with a less intensive secondary field (minor)
- Special Studies program: Create your own customized major by combining courses from three different departments to match your specific interests. For example, you might combine Psychology, Sociology, and Business courses to create a program focused on Organizational Behavior
- Joint majors: F&M offers pre-established combinations of related fields, such as Business, Organizations & Society (BOS) or Scientific and Philosophical Studies of Mind (SPM), allowing you to study interconnected disciplines under a single major
- Certificate programs: Add specialized credentials to your degree through structured programs like Public Health or Social Justice & Sustainability, which typically require 5-6 courses
These options might give you the variety you want with more flexibility. As UB points out, “some students prefer to minor in their secondary field of interest.”
Making Your Choice:
Ask yourself:
– Will these two majors help your career plans?
– Could a major and minor work just as well?
– Have you checked all the requirements?
– Do you want time for internships and research during the academic year?
Managing Your Time:
Double majoring means you’ll be busy. The University of Bridgeport advises that “earning your bachelor’s in two different fields will mean a busy four years.” While all F&M students take courses and plan schedules, as a double major you’ll need to be especially strategic about:
– Course load planning: Beyond the typical 4-course semester, you’ll often need to take 5 courses to meet both majors’ requirements on time. This means more assignments, readings, and exams to juggle simultaneously
– Prerequisites: With two different departments’ required courses to complete, you’ll need to map out prerequisites years in advance. Missing a key prerequisite could delay graduation, so careful long-term planning is crucial
– Organization: Managing deadlines and requirements for two different departments requires exceptional organizational skills. You’ll need systems to track requirements for both majors and ensure you’re meeting all department deadlines
– Time management: While all students balance academics with other activities, double majors must be particularly disciplined about study schedules to maintain strong performance across twice the major-specific coursework
The Bottom Line:
A double major could be great if you’re:
– Clear about both your academic and career goals. This means:
- Academic goals: Understanding how your two chosen fields complement each other intellectually (like combining Economics with Data Science to strengthen your quantitative analysis skills)
- Career goals: Having a solid vision of how both majors will serve your professional path (such as combining Environmental Studies with Business to pursue a career in sustainable business development)
– Ready for a structured schedule
– Good at managing your time
– Excited about both subjects
As the University of Bridgeport emphasizes, “Education isn’t one size fits all, so the best option for your future is 100% your choice.” While double majoring offers benefits like “more job opportunities” and “diverse skillsets,” it also comes with challenges like “a double major will limit your freedom to explore other areas of study,” as UB notes.
Remember, F&M offers many ways to succeed academically. Talk to your advisors and the Career Services office to find the best path for you. Whether you choose one major or two, focus on making the most of your college experience. As the University of Bridgeport concludes, “For highly motivated students with specific career goals in mind, a double major can provide a competitive edge after graduation.”
(This article uses research and insights presented in the University of Bridgeport’s study on academic pathways: “Pros and Cons of Dual Degrees and Double Majors” (2023). https://www.bridgeport.edu/news/pros-and-cons-of-dual-degree-and-double-majors/)
First-Year Ashley Witkowski is the Campus Life Editor. Her email is awitkows@fandm.edu.