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Is a Double Major Right for You?

If you’re ready to declare a major, this single thought may be lingering in your mind: Should I or shouldn’t I attain a double major? Sure, it could mean more job opportunities and higher pay, but a double major could also mean twice the stress and a hefty tuition bill.
To ease such torment, read these pros and cons of double majoring, and decide the right path for you.
Pros:

  • As a prospective employee, you’re more marketable. Having a double major shows that you’re flexible and well-rounded in more than one area of study. For instance, foreign language as a second major, specifically Spanish, is always a huge plus with employers. With this tough job market, a double-whammy could mean that you’ll get hired straight out of college.
  • It may be the only solution if you’re equally torn between two majors. It’s likely that if you don’t follow your destined education path now, you’ll head back to school after you graduate. Going back isn’t the worst thing in the world, but it’s tough to do when you’re working a full-time job. It’s best to get your degrees out of the way now while you have education on the mind.

Cons:

  • Some employers prefer practical experience over another degree. Since some jobs require such specific job training, one of your degrees could be rendered useless. If you’re leaning towards one degree over the other, consider minoring in one, and spend the extra amount of your time focusing on internships.
  • You could spend more money and more time in college. More credit hours means more tuition money and, possibly, a few extra semesters. Even worse, some students find that their grades suffer with such a heavy load of classes. If you’re not truly in the mind set of double majoring, please do not attempt. You’ll end up wasting your time and money.

Still not sure what to do? Talk to your adviser and get his or her honest opinion. Also, ask yourself if you’re in college just to make more money or to get a well-rounded education.
Also Read:
How to Choose a Recession-Proof College Major

The Top 10 Most Popular College Majors

Should You Major in Communication?