If you've earned a double academic major in college, you're probably proud of that accomplishment and want to include it on your resume. This guidance proves valuable, especially in certain situations, such as when a required course fills up. I personally received two BS degrees from an American university. At the end, tally up your number of agrees and disagrees to find out whether a double major or dual degree is better suited for you. Dentists diagnose and treat medical conditions affecting the teeth, mouth, and jaw. His writing has developed from his experience as a quality assurance manager for Microsoft and IBM. Northwest Missouri State University: Highlighting Education on Your Resume, University of California Berkley: Double Majors and Simultaneous Degrees. In a side-by-side comparison, the advantage likely goes to those who graduate with two degrees versus those who double major. (2) If your school uses a different scale (such as a 10-point scale), you may want to convert your GPA to a 4.0-scale which will be more widely understood. Put your degrees on a resume in the reverse-chronological order. These general education requirements provide students with a well-rounded education and may also help guide them in a direction of study. Navigating the college application process might feel overwhelming at times, so we offer resources to help. and your two majors Biochemistry and Public Health on your resume, per the guidance of your advisers. As noted above, double majoring means earning the requisite amount of credits in two majors. Finally, internships provide a means of connecting material learned in the classroom to the working world. The area needs more study to ascertain if this extends to all majors or just to some. Even if both fields of study aren't directly related to the type of job you're applying for, it's appropriate to list them both, as long as you make it clear you're not claiming two completely separate degrees. A growing body of research suggests that people benefit from taking regular brain breaks. Instead of adding another major and staying in school longer, think about using all of the time that you would need to devote to it for your LSAT preparation instead. Students in this situation can opt to take these courses. Below is an example of how to put your minor on resume. Students considering this option should really find out more before deciding. Students who use electives to fulfill major requirements get less of an opportunity to branch out into other subjects. This path makes sense for those looking to specialize in a particular field or who plan to pursue graduate school. Careful planning and attention to detail can boost a student’s chances of finishing in four years. Fortunately, students receive a valuable tool to aid this process at the start of every quarter or semester. The read the transcript as clearly stating that the OP received two different degrees: a BS in math (with honors) and a BA in philosophy. Dual-degree programs typically take longer and cost more money than more traditional routes. Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today. Consider an engineering student who wants to learn how to play the piano but does not want to double major. The details will vary depending on your time in school. The education section is typically added at the end of a resume. Double majors may want to draw attention to this fact through formatting. One study even found thatinnovation increases in students who double major. For example, students pursuing a double major may benefit from forming a regular study group with other students on a similar track. Good luck to you. Mostly Agrees—A Double Major Should Work Well for You! At my university the difference between a double major with a single degree and two degrees was the number of credit hours completed. Some of these classes can also satisfy major requirements. Even so, transfers may not meet the required prerequisites for a major when they first start at a new institution. Students who plan to double major and attend graduate school should consider areas in different disciplines. And for more resume writing help, check out our free resume writing course. You can list an incomplete degree on your resume… However, what happens if a student cannot decide or wants to pursue multiple disciplines? In your case, it sounds as though you are working toward a double major, not a second (dual) degree, and it would be appropriate to list your degree (e.g., B.S.) The rationale for double majoring varies from student to student. However, double majoring can bolster a student’s application if they manage to keep their grades up and if the courses prove rigorous. In theory, adding a minor to a double major gives a student experience in another field and provides a boost post-graduation, but do the risks outweigh the benefits? One major reason why your employer might throw out your resume is to avoid being accused of discriminatory hiring practices. Yes, students can double major in graduate school. The additional workload can also make it harder to pursue internships and other outside-the-classroom learning opportunities, like study abroad programs. Also, consider order. Students who go with this option also need to complete degree requirements for both majors. While most schools allow students to double major, not every school has a double major program in place (Princeton doesn’t, for example). Dual-degree programs lack flexibility regarding what classes students can take, whereas colleges and universities often let double majors design their own roadmap. Research suggests that double majoring can provide a financial boost. The following provides an example: Bachelor of Arts: Double major in Political Science and English Literature March 2012 School Of Thought University, Lost Isles, MA Overall GPA 3.75/4.0 Use the /4.0 format to signify the basis of the 3.75 GPA. Well, simply put, double majoring adds a layer of difficulty. First, get some sleep. Based on the Word Net lexical database for the English Language. Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school. Those with a longer work history can probably move this section down. Coming up with a schedule makes it easier to do things like exercise or take breaks to see friends. Should students include a resume in their college application? Double majoring and busy schedules go hand-in-hand. The criteria vary by institution. Choosing a double major requires the student to meet the requirements for both fields of study. A person applying for a job in forestry might want to put their environmental science major ahead of their political science major. A student who picks two disparate majors gives themselves more options when it comes to areas of study in grad school. Plus, they look good on a resume. For example, someone who double majored in English and journalism could run into problems when placed in the same admissions pool as someone who majored in biology and English. A minor may complement a major, or students could choose to explore other interests. The number of credits required to satisfy a minor varies by school. These conversations should yield valuable insights into workload, stress level, and time management. Why so low? A person who decides to double major may earn more now than someone who decides on one major, but that may change a few years down the road. Students can seek other avenues besides a double major. One cautionary note: There's making your job sound impressive and meaningful—and then there's boasting. If you graduate with a double major, you get to list two degrees on your resume. A student who double majors should consider mixing up disciplines. The sooner you catch their eye, the better. Advisors help students chart a course through their majors and outline any required courses. A double major is when a student elects to study two majors from the same college, receiving one diploma with both majors stated on it. University of California, Berkeley. Students should also plan to incorporate exercise into their routine, and not just for physical health reasons. However, most colleges and universities require students to meet with an advisor before making a decision. Most schools also offer some kind of academic support, such as tutors or advisors. Careful planning and regular conversations with an advisor can help make it happen. A double major is when a student elects to study two majors from the same college, receiving one diploma with both majors stated on it. Even so, scholars who research higher education say double majors exhibit certain characteristics, including a desire to set and achieve goals. Only put your GPA on your resume if it was 3.0 or higher. Transfer students need to do a little more research. Students who plan to work for a technology company and double majored in computer science and economics stand to make more than someone who plans to become a teacher and double majored in history and philosophy. Take a look and note the deadlines for tests and big assignments. Louise is a word nerd at heart and loves to write. Students who choose to double major need to complete the requirements for two different disciplines but still only earn one degree. If you have work-study experience, summer jobs and other work experience that is closely related to the type of work you are seeking, a conventional reverse-chronological resume is a good choice. Depending on how much overlap there is between the two majors, this option can be extremely demanding. Generally, students need to earn about 18 to 30 credits to fulfill a minor. However, completing two degrees at once can often save on tuition — rather than completing a second degree at a later date. Employers look for those things that apply to their open position. Conversely, students enrolled in a dual-degree program graduate with two separate degrees. This helps in two significant ways. Medical schools also like to admit students who receive a well-rounded education. For this study, researchers defined “innovative” as a set of skills including networking, persuasive communication, working with diverse teams, and a willingness to take risks. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. Unlike medical schools, law schools place the humanities on equal footing with the sciences. The interviewer will perceive you as a person with more exposure and hence this can tip the scales in your favour. Some colleges warn their students that performing a double major does not necessarily benefit them when being considered for a graduate program or in career possibilities. The process begins when choosing a school and does not end until graduation. Students who take this path should expect to take a full course load most quarters or semesters to graduate on time. Then, agents and CDs could bring you in. Students should also make time in their schedule to socialize and hang out with friends. Double majoring means taking classes in multiple disciplines, which can also increase one’s network. Adding a second major provides more opportunities when pursuing an advanced degree. Some colleges and universities simplify this process for grad students pursuing a double major. When it comes to deciding which path to take, students need to consider their long-term goals. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Research shows a correlation between an inconsistent sleep schedule and a drop in GPA.Lack of sleepcan also cause stress, anxiety, and depression. By contrast, finishing a major often requires earning 40 to 50 credits. Students who double major may also need to take summer courses to stay on schedule. Students not in these categories may want to consider other options. Find support on topics […]. Some institutions ask that graduate students apply and gain acceptance to both majors. Prospective lawyers, doctors, or those looking to work in business should consider a dual-degree program. 5 Reasons to Put a Fraternity or Sorority on Your Resume. Typically, a student cannot begin work on a double major until they receive approval. But only when requested as part of the application. B.Sc. © 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. in Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering. GPA and LSAT scores play a significant role in the law school admissions process. If approved, a student must then contact the university’s registration office to declare their double major before moving forward. The good news, however, is that there are a few basics that music business employers like to see from their applicants, and highlighting these things on your resume can help you shine during the interview process. Most credits transfer if a direct transfer agreement exists between schools. Pursuing a double major takes a little bit more of each. However, law schools tend to emphasize involvement. Second, students can see the stressful times in advance and can proactively put together a stress-reduction plan. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers. Think about putting parts of this segment in bold or adding an indent. What is the difference between a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science? Minoring helps build competency, if not expertise, in an area. Double majoring makes sense for students who plan on attending graduate school. Also, double majoring may cost more money and take longer to complete. They look for teachers, schools, theaters, studios, directors, etc., who they respect. A student who takes three to five music classes likely completed enough coursework for a minor. There were a lot of psych classes in my major that I have never used (Experiemental-just talked about rats, etc). COLLEGE. The syllabus outlines everything that happens in a class. This individual can instead opt to minor in music. Your resume is often the first contact you make with a potential employer, and that first impression can make or break your chances of getting a job. Absolutely! GPA and MCAT scores carry the most weight in the admissions process for medical school. Students looking for a less intense college experience should think twice before pursuing a double major. Also, your transcript would note the award of one degree and two majors. Transfer students need to complete both majors within six quarters after coming to campus. Similarly, those seeking a more robust experience, such as joining clubs or participating in student government, may need to limit their activities. Recent graduates should consider putting their educational experience at the top of their resume. Yes of course it looks good on a resume. Because I think you are more likely to reach water by digging a 30-meters deep well, than by digging two 5-meters deep holes. Many colleges and universities offer gyms and health centers with licensed medical professionals, including counselors. See disclaimer. Besides managing a full course load, consider that graduate students may also serve as teaching assistants or research assistants. And if you don't decide on a double major right away, you might end up needing an extra semester or two to complete your requirements. Alternatively, students can contact an institution early in their academic career to determine which courses transfer and count as prerequisites. The UC San Diego, for example, follows many of the guidelines described above, but with some notable exceptions. Colleges recommend students to double major merely for the intellectual challenge. The goals of majors and minors also differ. Those looking to develop a niche should consider specializing within their major. This approach is common because it builds expertise and makes applicants more competitive in the graduate admissions process. Advisors assist students with finding alternatives that meet their major requirements. Wellness practices like yoga or meditation can also help students achieve similar benefits. Still, students need to see this as a marathon and not a sprint. If your total GPA was under 3.0, but the GPA in your major was higher, put THAT on your resume. Students can choose courses that meet the requirements for both majors. Louise co-founded Blue Sky in 2002 after a career as an HR executive in industries such as music, video games, fashion and advertising. College takes time and energy. Format the information on your degree on a resume consistently. A double major sounds great, but it requires a lot of extra work and sacrifice. These programs often include a theme, such as the University of Texas’ Italian Approaches to Early Childhood Education program. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. Relevant summer jobs or internships will strengthen your resume more than just a high GPA, so don't laser-focus on grades. A double major serves as a great way to build expertise in a field, but it comes with a cost. Those who pick two similar majors benefit as well. If you can account for it with travel, then it not only plugs the gap but enhances the resume … Say, for example, that you majored in both psychology and sociology. Some academics, however, argue that a double major doesn’t necessarily provide that edge. Law schools, like medical schools, prefer candidates with a diverse educational background. Additionally, not every school calls a double major the same thing (we’ll look at Stanford, that refers to a second major as a “secondary emphasis” in just a moment). And in some instances, it doesn’t help a graduate earn any more money or have any better job prospects at graduation. 2002 - 2006. Double majoring can bolster one’s law school application if the student maintains a good GPA. Of course, this only makes sense if the individual knows ahead of time where they want to transfer. Students who complete a double major or a dual-degree program enter the working world with a leg up over the competition. Bottom line: Students deciding to double major need to read the fine print. Double majoring does not necessarily mean more time in college. From the trendy euro-import coffee places to the trusted latte spot on the corner, baristas have become a major part of the food services industry. Seen this way, yes, students can finish a double major and a minor in four years. The easiest way to do this is by adding space between the degree earned and the final GPA. 5. Create the education section of the resume. Dentists can specialize in one of many subfields.... How will you pay for college, what career should you pursue, and how can you access the best college resources? AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. 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Highlight solid GPAs and make them stand out. agree that having a double major makes you more competitive when entering the workforce Travel does look good on your resume. Students should also consider talking to their peers to find out their experience with double majoring. The phrase may sound familiar, but what does it mean, and how does one go about pursuing a double major? However, this mostly depends on the student and how well they plan. Students who double minor give themselves a slight edge on the job market over those who minored in one subject. Evidence suggests that double majors can earn between 3.2% and 9.5% more in income than students who graduate with only one major. A double major means you take on two separate majors and receive two degrees. Minoring really boils down to credits earned. These traditional options might not work for everyone, so students should consider alternatives. Studying abroad offers students the chance to see the world while still taking classes. 3,90 GPA. Some students choose to double major because they possess a passion for education and want to get the most out of their undergraduate experience. The institution uses the statement of purpose to determine why a particular student wants to double major and how they plan to achieve this goal. Still others see double majoring as an opportunity to specialize and gain a competitive edge in the job market. That amounts to about one in four. Writing Your Resume. If you obtained a double major, you would write it down as: EDUCATION. Check our list of common resume mistakes to avoid. In fact, there are many compelling reasons why putting a fraternity or sorority on your resume … A double major in college seems like a no brainer to many students today, who want to capture a competitive advantage in the work world.. Students should not confuse double majoring with minoring. Others pick this option because they developed an interest in multiple subjects and want to stick with both. For example, an undergraduate who double majored in psychology and sociology stands a good chance of being accepted into a master’s program for social work. One of the biggest decisions involves picking a major. Students interested in careers that require specialization, but not necessarily an advanced degree, may want to consider double majoring. Education is an important part of your resume, particularly if you are a recent graduate or going through a career transition. Students typically spend the first few years exploring different subjects. The data varies, but roughly 20% of all college students decide to double major. Of course, the order depends on the nature of the position. If you puff up recognizable positions with over-the-top language, it can really backfire and make you seem silly. Talk to peers, faculty members, and advisors. In other words, a double major is when you graduate with one degree, but with two or more areas of specialization or disciplines. Whether you're writing your first resume or updating your resume for a mid-career job search, no one is immune from making a mistake or two. They also provide cosmetic services such as teeth whitening treatments. Also, those who go this route should expect a packed schedule every quarter or semester. Programs like these can serve as a great supplement to a student’s education. Resume: The general rule of thumb is to list your GPA if it's at least 3.0 or higher, but there are two important rules to know here: (1) You may choose to list your in-major GPA if it's higher than your overall GPA, but you need to specify that it's your in-major GPA. Some colleges warn their students that performing a double major does not necessarily benefit them when being considered for a graduate program or in career possibilities. Maybe a psych minor with a concencration on abnormal, clinical, and developmental classes would be beneficial though. Faculty can also serve as a good resource for students who want to learn more about the possibilities within a given field. While some employers expect applicants to include a resume photo, others won’t even look at your resume because a resume picture is seen as an unprofessional and potentially risky addition to your resume. Before deciding, students should really think about why they want to add a minor to their double major. Consider adding extra information about your degree on a resume (e.g. A student who double majors earns only one degree but with two concentrations. For example, if both majors require a thesis, a student may only need to complete one to graduate. For instance, you could earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with double majors in Marketing and Spanish with the goal of pursuing a career in international business. A major builds skills in an area and prepares students for a career. Author, Louise Fletcher. Some of the same guidelines mentioned above also apply to law school, with some caveats. Like Alex says, it really depends on you as an individual and the majors in question. Also, students need to get approval from the university’s undergraduate council if they want to pursue two majors within the same department. However, if you have no relevant work experience that pertains to the job then it is best to add the education section at the top of the resume. The details of exactly what that looks like during your time in school will vary. Minors, though they still appear on your transcripts, are not degrees. The purported benefits also include an ability to connect diffuse material across different courses.