Double-sided tape, double rainbows, double-shot espressos – there is something undeniably appealing about getting more for your efforts.
Does this 'more is better' logic apply to a double Master’s degree? Before you commit to such an ambitious academic journey, it is essential to understand what is involved.
Let’s dive into the details!
Key takeaways:
- Dual Master’s degree: You earn two separate diplomas, usually from two universities or in two related disciplines, through a coordinated programme.
- Double degree programmes are more demanding than a standard Master’s and require strong time management and commitment.
- Pros of dual degrees: Boost for career options, international experience, and skill set.
- Cons of dual degrees: Higher workload, complex administration, and possible extra costs.
What is a dual Master’s degree?
A dual degree, or double degree, is an academic program that enables you to study two related or complementary disciplines simultaneously, culminating in two separate qualifications.
While dual degree programs are available at the undergraduate level, they are particularly popular among graduate students looking to expand their expertise.
Double Master’s degrees are often hosted by two different universities, either within the same country or internationally. However, some institutions also offer internal dual degree programs.
Here is a simplified overview of common academic terminology:
- Dual degree (double degree): One programme (= a coordinated curriculum), that leads to two separate diplomas.
- Joint degree: One diploma awarded together by two or more universities after completing a shared curriculum.
- Double major: One Bachelor’s diploma with two areas of specialisation within the same university.
I will clarify the distinctions between joint degrees and double majors later, as these terms are frequently confused with dual degrees.
| Tip: Browse for dual now to see what’s available! |
Double degree: how does it work?
Typically, you will divide your studies between two partner institutions, either completing them sequentially or alternating between them throughout the program.
Most double Master’s degrees require 18 to 24 months to complete, though the timeline may vary based on the curriculum structure.
If you are wondering about the duration, expect it to be comparable to or slightly longer than a traditional single-subject Master’s degree.
Beyond the time commitment, here are other key features that distinguish dual degrees:
- Tuition fees and costs: Tuition fees can vary a lot. Some partner universities offer a combined fee structure, while others require you to pay separate or higher fees due to international mobility and administrative coordination.
- Workload and time commitment: You are essentially covering the learning outcomes of two degrees within one. This means more assignments, tighter schedules, and less flexibility compared to a regular Master’s.
Upon completion of a double degree program, you will graduate with two distinct diplomas, either:
- One diploma from each participating university, or
- Two diplomas for two disciplines if the programme is run by a single institution.
Why should I study a double master degree?
There are many compelling reasons to pursue this path, from seeking an intellectual challenge to refusing to choose between two passions or future-proofing your career.
But is a dual Master’s worth the investment? The value truly depends on your professional goals and long-term career strategy.
Here are the primary advantages of pursuing a double Master’s degree:
- Stronger CV and employability: Completing a double degree shows ambition. Employers are very likely to appreciate this achievement because they know not everyone can pull it off. It makes you stand out.
- Interdisciplinary expertise: You gain deep knowledge in two fields, which can open doors to specialised or hybrid careers.
- International exposure: Studying in different countries helps you develop cultural awareness, and discover new mentalities.
- Broad professional network: Studying at multiple institutions allows you to meet professors, classmates, and industry contacts of different academic and professional environments. This makes switching and finding jobs easier later.
- Time and cost efficiency (compared to two separate degrees): A coordinated programme can be faster and sometimes cheaper than enrolling in two independent Master’s degrees.
- Language and personal development: Living and studying abroad often improves language skills, adaptability, and personal confidence.
It is worth noting that these collaborative programs were born from a shift toward global cooperation in higher education, largely driven by the Bologna Process initiative.
| Tip: If you are unsure whether you want a dual degree at the same or at two different universities, our article on what studying abroad is about may help you decide. |
What are the downsides of a double Master’s degree?
Before you apply, it is crucial to understand the intensity of these academic programs.
The reality: They are significantly more demanding than standard academic programs.
While the potential benefits are significant, you must also be prepared for these real-world challenges:
- Heavy workload: You will manage dense schedules, multiple academic expectations, and often mobility between universities and countries.
- Administrative complexity: Different academic calendars, grading systems, and institutional rules can make planning each term more complicated.
- Higher organisational and financial demands: Travel, relocation, and potential extra fees can increase your overall costs and stress levels.
- Recognition differences: In some countries or industries, employers may not fully understand dual degree structures, which can require extra explanation.
- Limited flexibility: Switching courses, taking breaks, or working part-time is usually harder due to the tightly structured nature of dual programmes.
A double Master’s may be unnecessary if your target career requires deep expertise in only one field. In those instances, a specialized single Master’s is often more efficient and less taxing.
| Personal tip: If you mainly want to study two disciplines rather than gain international experience, focusing on dual degrees offered within the same university can be a smart compromise. This reduces administrative issues, costs, and organisational stress. |
Dual degree vs. double majors
Double majors—or multiple specializations—are common in US higher education but can be confusing for international applicants.
Double majors are almost exclusively found at the Bachelor’s level.
A double major involves studying two fields within a single degree program, resulting in one diploma with two specializations. In contrast, a dual degree results in two separate diplomas.
Key differences compared to a dual degree include:
- With a double major, you get one degree with two major subjects. With a dual degree, you get two separate degree diplomas.
- Double majors usually take the same time as a standard degree, while a double degree can take longer depending on the programme.
- Double majors typically do not increase tuition fees much, as they are part of one programme.
Dual Master’s degrees vs simultaneous independent Master’s degrees
Some students consider the route of enrolling in two independent Master’s programs concurrently.
While technically possible in some regions, this is significantly more complex and logistically difficult than joining an official dual degree partnership.
Joint degree vs dual degree
Joint degrees are similar to double majors in concept, but they are available at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels.
A joint degree is a unified curriculum designed by multiple universities. The resulting diploma typically features the branding and seals of all participating institutions.
Joint degree programs generally have the same duration, credit requirements, and workload as standard degree programs.
Here is how they differ from dual degrees and double majors:
- In a dual degree, you earn two separate diplomas, while in a joint degree, you get one combined diploma recognised by all partner universities.
- A joint degree involves multiple universities collaborating on one programme, while a double major refers to two specialisations within one degree at a single institution.
Extra: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree programme
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) represents a premier example of a joint degree.
It is a prestigious, internationally recognized program that enables students to earn a joint diploma while gaining global experience.
A central requirement of the EMJMD is that students must reside in at least two different countries throughout their studies.
Anyone holding a Bachelor’s degree can apply for the EMJMD, and many students qualify for exclusive scholarships.
Interested in this path? Read more about the EMJMD program here.
Final thoughts
A double Master’s degree is a powerful career accelerator if you have clear goals and a genuine need for dual expertise. However, it is a demanding commitment that requires careful deliberation.
Before making your choice, weigh the pros and cons of dual, joint, and single Master’s options, and explore global study programs to find the best fit for your future!