With the world’s constant technological innovations and globalisation, many industries appear to be reliant and interconnected for advancement. Businesses are searching for bright people who can take multiple perspectives and can keep up with the fast-paced environment. A single educational degree appears to be of lesser significance in comparison to the dynamic industrial state. As a result, today’s students are more inclined to gain knowledge in a range of fields to enhance their skills and employability. Dual degree programs strive to meet the needs of rising educational institutions while simultaneously catering to the worldwide needs of aspiring individuals.
Dual-degree academic programmes are programmes that help individuals to study courses for two different degrees simultaneously and graduate with two different degrees after completion. The two degrees can be different from each other, or they can be complementary to each other. For example, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy along with a Bachelor of Business Administration has different subjects, but they complement each other, while pursuing a Master of Science in Data Science along with a Master of Business Administration are two entirely different subjects.
Dual degrees can be provided by the same or different institutions in the same period. Degrees can be pursued online, offline, or in hybrid mode, depending on the needs of students and the structure of the course. In certain cases, the degrees can be complemented with a higher education programme in the same field, such as doing a combined MD and PhD course for those interested in medical research and clinical practice, which is also a dual degree in the educational programme.
Why pursue a dual degree?
Pursuing a dual degree program can provide numerous benefits and help an individual advance in their job. It improves academic, professional, and personal areas of life. Here are some reasons to choose a dual-degree programme over a regular degree:
- Enhanced knowledge and skill set: Students who are committed to their studies and want to learn about multiple areas of interest should seek dual degree programmes. These programmes allow students to excel in two different specialisations while also learning about a variety of topics. As they learn in a multidisciplinary atmosphere, the programme helps them develop their analytical and assessment skills. It also validates them as a qualified individual in both fields.
- Wider professional network: While studying for two programmes, sometimes two institutions or even international institutions are involved. Both of these institutional professional and alumni networks can be used by the students, enhancing their reach. Students also get to communicate with a larger community of students, professors, and professionals from different industries, cultures and ethnicities, enhancing their communication and networking skills.
- Personal growth: Managing two degrees simultaneously can be a challenging yet interesting task. It builds resilience and discipline among students. They acquire a variety of psychological traits such as time management, prioritisation, stress management, adaptability, and a strong worldview. Altogether enhancing their personality. The programme acts like a catalyst for overall growth.
Advantages of a dual degree programme
It has multiple benefits for both students and working professionals, some of which are described below:
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: Dual degrees provide students with numerous professional choices in various fields; they can choose from a diverse pool of options. They become an attractive employee for various businesses. For example, an MBA and MS in Computer Science that combine management skills with technical expertise enhance career opportunities. The versatility of this dual degree makes individuals more suitable for specific and complex job roles in the IT sector.
- Give a competitive edge: Having two degrees is proof of enriched knowledge, multiple skills, versatility, and adaptability, giving individuals a competitive edge in a highly dynamic environment. For example, a dual degree in business and economics prepares students for careers in finance, consulting, or in policy-formulating areas.
- Increase earning potential: Graduates with dual degrees are often eligible for advanced positions and higher salaries due to their multiple skills and qualifications. Pursuing a double master’s in an MBA and information technology can significantly enhance earning potential.
- Global opportunities: Dual programmes usually involve multiple national and international institutions, providing different exposures and career opportunities at various locations. With qualifications in two fields, a student is prepared for worldwide employment options in a variety of nations and industries.
- Career flexibility: Graduates can pursue careers in either one or both fields. It is easier for them to switch roles or industries depending on their preferences. For example, having a bachelor’s in computer applications and a bachelor’s in business administration opens a large pool of jobs.
- Saves Time: Pursuing a dual degree takes less time as compared to pursuing two degrees individually, which can be double the time and expenses.
- Saves resources: Covering two degrees in a single time frame allows you to save money, lodging, and transportation. It optimises the optical use of existing resources by acquiring two degrees at the same time.
Dual degree programmes: Transforming education
Dual degree programmes were once considered rare but are now gaining popularity among students. Almost all major institutions around the globe are now providing various lucrative dual programmes for students. They are continuously accessed and tailored according to the students’ needs and the industrial demand for trained individuals. Today, most of these educational programmes emphasise hands-on activities and practical projects, imparting greater understanding and skills. It builds accountability, cooperation, expertise, and practical skills in students. These dual programmes can certainly enhance the career paths of students by offering higher positions, salaries, and networking opportunities.
Before choosing a dual degree course, one must be sure of their interests and strengths so that they can enjoy both of their selected courses and enthusiastically carry forward the learning. These are time-efficient and economical in most cases. On the other hand, they can increase workloads, overlapping schedules, and administrative hurdles. These shortcomings can be mitigated through proper planning, dedication, and administrative support from institutions. Through these programmes, professionals and students can grow exponentially in their careers and bring change to the surrounding world through interdisciplinary education.