Written by Geilan Nassir
As a third-year student juggling two degrees, I always tend to get different questions and impressions around double degrees from pretty much everyone around me. It’s almost always a misunderstanding of what it actually is. So let me give you a close-up on what a double degree is and what to expect!
What is a double degree, and how does it work?
A double degree is exactly what you would expect from its name, a double qualification. You basically earn two qualifications at the same time, and it’s a great way to broaden your knowledge and skills across two fields. Double degrees can be two areas or courses that are similar, or it can be two courses that are entirely different. In a single degree, you typically complete core subjects, subjects from your major, and electives.
However, in a double degree, you almost only study core subjects and major subjects for each qualification. You only study a few electives compared to a single degree. Cutting them out allows for the completion of two degrees in less time.
What to expect…
Workload
The workload can be heavier than a single degree; you can still do the same number of subjects per session as your normal single degrees, but the workload just feels heftier.
You’re sometimes juggling subjects from two different faculties, which means the content, classes, and even referencing styles will be different and can be a struggle at times to switch back and forth.
Content
Content can be quite diverse at times. For example, if you’re combining something like Business and Engineering, you will be switching between very different types of thinking, analytical and creative problem-solving in engineering, and strategic and communication skills in business.
Similar courses combined can also have some difficulties between the switch-ups. For example, Law and Criminal Justice, despite the similarity, the content of Law will often overshadow Criminal Justice with its heaviness. The variety keeps things interesting but also challenging.
Plan Plan Plan!
You’ll need to be quite organised and proactive. Following course requirements, ensuring you meet the criteria of both degrees, and planning your semesters ahead are all part of the process. It’s helpful to regularly check in with academic advisors to stay on track.
So is a double degree harder?
If all of this made it sound like a double degree is harder, then it’s not, rest assured. You still do the same amount of subject in what you do in a single degree per session, it’s more about spreading things out over time. Just keep that in mind, it’s not about doing more at once, but managing your time well throughout the whole journey.
Despite some the challenges, a double degree offers huge benefits. You gain a unique skill set, more career opportunities and networking, and often an early start in your preferred career. I would like to call it demanding but rewarding… and as someone who’s three years in, you start to see how all the pieces come together!
So if you’re considering a double degree, be ready to work hard but also enjoy the diverse learning experience. It’s definitely worth it.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
