Can You Earn Two Undergraduate Degrees? Exploring the Possibilities

Many people considering a career change or seeking to deepen their knowledge often wonder, "Can you have two undergraduate degrees?" The answer is yes, and this article explores the requirements, benefits, and considerations involved in pursuing a second bachelor's degree.

Reasons to Pursue a Second Bachelor’s Degree

There are many compelling reasons to pursue a second bachelor's degree. Here are some of the most common:

Upskilling within your current field: Rapid industry changes may require professionals to develop new skills to stay competitive. A second degree can provide the necessary training and knowledge to keep up with these demands.
Career advancement: Earning a second bachelor’s degree can help professionals stand out from their peers and gain a competitive edge for promotions. The additional skills, knowledge, and experience gained can significantly enhance a resume. Former advertising executive Cullen Moser, ’07, earned a second degree that allowed her transition into a successful new career in interior design.
Obtaining credit for specific skills: Professionals often develop valuable skills throughout their careers that were not part of their initial bachelor's program. A second degree allows them to gain formal recognition and credit for these skills.
Transitioning to a new field: Individuals may find themselves wanting a career change but lacking the necessary qualifications. A second bachelor's degree can provide the foundational knowledge and credentials needed to successfully switch career paths.

How to Obtain Two Bachelor's Degrees

There are generally two primary ways to obtain two bachelor's degrees: simultaneously or consecutively.

Simultaneously

Earning two bachelor's degrees simultaneously involves enrolling at two different institutions and taking courses to fulfill the requirements of both degrees. While possible, this approach is often challenging due to logistical complexities and the need for approvals from both institutions.

Consecutively

Pursuing degrees consecutively is often more straightforward. This involves completing one degree and then applying for a second bachelor's degree program at a different institution. This provides the flexibility to focus on one field before moving on to another.

Dual Degree vs. Double Major

It's important to distinguish between a dual degree and a double major. A dual degree involves earning two separate degrees concurrently, often from different colleges or disciplines within a university. A double major allows you to earn one bachelor’s degree with two separate majors within the same college or university.

Dual Degree:

Involves earning two separate degrees concurrently, often from different colleges or disciplines within a university.
The dual degree approach often takes longer and requires more credit hours than a double major, but it results in two distinct degrees.
Upon graduation, dual degree students receive two separate diplomas, one for each degree earned.

Double Major:

Allows you to earn one bachelor’s degree with two separate majors.
This often involves a more rigorous course load, as you’ll need to meet the requirements for both majors, but it allows you to explore two areas of interest in depth.
Upon graduation, double majors receive one diploma that lists both of their majors.

Time and Cost Considerations

Time: Earning a second bachelor's degree can take approximately 1-2 years. Most schools will transfer general education and elective credits from the first degree, allowing students to focus on major-specific courses. You’ll probably need to complete at least 30-36 credits, the equivalent of all your major courses, and your new school will give you credit for the core and elective courses you’ve already completed.
Cost: The average cost of tuition for a bachelor's degree is approximately $30,613 per year (according to NCES data). However, the actual cost will vary depending on the institution and program.

Financial Aid Options

Financial aid options for a second bachelor's degree may be more limited than for first-time students. However, several avenues are still available:

Student Loans: Second-degree students are generally eligible for public and private student loans, provided they have not exceeded the aggregate loan limit. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help determine eligibility and borrowing limits.
GI Bill®: Military veterans and service members may use remaining GI Bill® funds to pay for a second degree.
Scholarships: Explore scholarships offered by private organizations, as some may have specific rules regarding second degrees.

Pell Grants: If you have already earned a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree, you do not qualify for a Pell Grant.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

When pursuing a second degree, students may choose to attend a different school than their first. Factors to consider when selecting a school include:

Accreditation: Ensure the institution is accredited.
Program Availability: Verify that the school offers the desired program.
Affordability: Review tuition costs and compare programs to find the most affordable option.
Location: Consider how the location of the school might impact living arrangements and residency qualifications.

University Specific Policies

It's important to be aware of specific university policies regarding second bachelor's degrees. For example, the University of Florida has the following policies:

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Students cannot earn the same degree twice from the University of Florida. If you earned a degree at UF and wish to earn a major from the same college that grants the same degree, you will not be granted another degree.
If you graduated from the UF with a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (for example, Sociology) and return as a post-baccalaureate student in UF Online to complete another major that results in a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (for example, Anthropology), you will not earn another degree of the same type from the same college. A notation will be made on the transcript that major requirements were completed for the second major.
If you graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and return to complete any major that results in a degree other than a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you will earn a second degree.
If you earned a Bachelor’s degree from another accredited institution recognized by UF, you will be awarded a UF degree upon successful completion of all degree requirements of your UF Online major.

Advice from Professionals

Kirk Hazlett, APR, Fellow PRSA, who holds two degrees, advises individuals considering a second bachelor's degree to:

Take time to figure out what you really want to do.
Identify the academic program that will enable you to realize your goal.
Don’t rush it; this is a serious investment of time and money.

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