Double degrees are two different degrees that a student can earn from partner universities. This may be a double bachelor’s degree, a double master’s degree, or a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Several UK universities collaborate with European, Canadian , American and even Chinese universities to offer double degrees to students wishing to achieve a unique career goal. Students can pursue a double degree in the UK simultaneously from another university and country of their choice for an average fee of INR 6,00,000-27,00,000.
All about Joint Honors Degrees in the UK
A double degree, often known as a double degree, is achieved when you study two fields, usually completely different ones, at the same time (one in each discipline). For example, if you studied psychology and business in a dual degree program, you will receive two degrees (or diplomas): a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA ).
Combination BA /BS , BS/BFA, BS/BBA etc. are examples of double degrees which produce two different types of degrees. (Some dual degree programs can provide you with both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree; we’ll look at these in more detail later.)
Read also: January admissions to UK universities
Why should you consider a double degree option?
Let’s take a look at what else you’ll learn and experience if you pursue a double degree:
- Increase your chances of getting a job : a dual degree will add value to your resume , giving you an advantage and a competitive edge over others. A dual degree broadens your well-rounded skill set and develops your interdisciplinary area of expertise, which businesses and industries can use in a wide range of applications. A double degree can help you stand out in a job market that is constantly changing and increasingly difficult, especially for graduates.
- Ability to network and network : Your contacts will double and your networking abilities will increase if you study at two institutions in two countries. Meeting new classmates, teachers and lecturers from all over the world can be useful not only during your studies, but also after graduation.
- Learn new skills . Despite some common beliefs, getting a double degree does not double your effort. However, it will require more time and concentration, depending on what you decide to study. However, it fosters a strong work ethic as well as the ability to quickly adapt and solve complex problems.
- Demonstrates your dedication and global perspective : Having a double degree will make you an attractive candidate to potential companies, and not just because of your extensive multidisciplinary academic experience. It will also highlight your ability to immerse yourself in a new culture, your dedication to your studies, and your ability to adapt to different situations.
Read also: Find out the difference between January and September recruitment in the UK.
Benefits of studying a double degree in the UK
There are various reasons why students should pursue a double degree in the UK. Below we list some of the reasons:
Quality of education
The United Kingdom has a long history of providing high quality education. Regulatory bodies regularly inspect and audit universities and educational institutions to ensure that all established indicators are met. Professional organizations may also audit individual institute departments to influence the curriculum. This makes pursuing a double degree in the UK a preferred option.
Famous Universities
Students from all over the world, not just Indians, prefer to study in the UK as three of the top ten universities in the world are located here. Therefore, universities around the world recognize a diploma from a British university. The placement rate is also very high, especially if you have a degree from a reputed UK university.
Flexibility
Studying in the United Kingdom offers a wide range of courses. In Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England, colleges and universities provide various double degree combinations. Students can also request the prospectus directly from the institutes. The education system in the United Kingdom is highly interactive: teachers and students communicate freely with each other, allowing students to combine several courses into one curriculum.
Healthcare for students
When you are enrolled in a full-time course in the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides free medical treatment to Indian students. If you live with your husband, partner or dependents while you study, you may also be excluded from certain expenses.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Almost any international student concerned about high tuition prices can apply for scholarships, especially at the graduate and research level.
Must Read: Affordable Universities 1.5 Hours from London
How is a double degree different from a double degree?
Since you are now familiar with what dual degree programs are, let’s look at how they differ from double majors. Mentioned below are the key differences between each of them so that you can judge for yourself the suitability and convenience of both of these programs.
- If you double major, you will receive only one degree but will specialize in two areas of the same degree. For example, in management, you can specialize in both finance and hospitality. On the other hand, in dual degree programs, you will have the opportunity to earn two degrees in different fields of study. For example, two bachelor’s degrees: one in management , the other in sociology.
- Double major students only have to take less additional coursework, and sometimes no coursework at all, since they are pursuing a single degree. Whereas, as part of a dual degree, you not only take a ton of coursework, but you also have to keep up with the curriculum and schedule of both degrees simultaneously. Dual degree programs allow you to study two completely different disciplines at the same time.
- You can study a double major at one university school without having to move between departments each time. This does not apply to a double program, where you have to constantly move from one department to another, and sometimes even to the university.
- A double degree can be completed within a specified period of time. But completing a double major sometimes takes longer due to the intensive coursework included in the program. Moreover, more clarity can be seen regarding the duration if you choose a specific program.
Read also: Interesting facts about student life in London
Types of double degree programs available in the UK
Students should consider what combination of majors and degree types will benefit them in pursuing a dual degree program. Students should think about their future goals and the career path they want to take when choosing which degree is best for them. Is a master’s degree necessary in your profession or can you achieve your career goals with a bachelor’s degree?
There are three combined degree programs in which both undergraduate and graduate students can participate. Earning two bachelor’s degrees, a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, or two master’s degrees are all examples of dual degrees.
Take a look at these options that include dual degrees:
Two bachelor’s degrees
Two bachelor’s degrees are among the most typical double degrees. While many universities offer this dual degree program, prospective students should check to see if their chosen school offers it. Dual degree programs offer various combinations of bachelor’s degrees, including a Bachelor of Business Administration , a Bachelor of Science , and a Bachelor of Arts , to name a few.
Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree
A bachelor’s and master’s degree is another popular dual degree option. Completing a combined bachelor’s and MBA degree typically takes five to six years. Depending on the university, the structure of the double degree may differ. In most cases, students take undergraduate classes while working toward an advanced degree. Earning both degrees at the same time saves time and money compared to pursuing them separately.
Two master’s or professional degrees
Is it possible to obtain two master’s degrees at the same time? Graduate students are increasingly interested in dual master’s degrees. The third most common option for a dual degree is earning two master’s degrees or a master’s degree plus another professional degree. If you attend full-time, you can earn a dual college or professional degree in three to four years.
The types of dual degree programs available are usually determined by the university, although others allow students to choose which disciplines they want to pursue a dual degree in. A graduate student can choose from a variety of program combinations, such as a combined master’s program. Science and Master of Business Administration degrees .
Another example is the MBA/MPH degree. The best MBA/MPH dual degree programs provide students with an MBA and a Master of Public Health degree.
Must Read: 6 Point IELTS Universities in UK for Masters
Top UK Universities Offering Double Degrees
Below we have mentioned a list of few top universities in the United Kingdom offering double degrees:
University college | In partnership with | Suggested course |
London School of Economics and Political Science | Bocconi University, Milan Sciences Po, Paris, Fudan University, Shanghai |
Double Master’s degree in European and International Public Policy and Politics. Double Master’s degree in European Studies. Double Master’s degree in Global Political Economy of China and Europe. |
Queen Mary University of London | Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (BUPT) Northwestern Polytechnic University (NPU) Northwestern Polytechnic University |
Bachelor (English) Telecommunications Engineering with Management . Bachelor (English) Electronic Commerce Engineering with Law. Bachelor (English) Internet of Things Engineering. Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences. |
University of East Anglia | Ritsumeikan University, Japan | MA International Relations |
University of Nottingham | University of Konstanz, Germany University of Tübingen, Germany |
Master of Economics |
University of Kentucky | (Myself) | MPH: Master of Public Health (dual PharmD + MPH degree) MBA: Master of Business Administration (dual PharmD + MBA degree) MSPS: Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences (dual PharmD + MSPS degree) MPA: Master of Public Administration (dual PharmD + MPA degree) |
University of Portsmouth | Edith Cowan University | BA (Hons) Counter-Terrorism, Intelligence and Cybercrime BA (Hons) Sports, Health and Exercise BA (Hons) Environmental Sciences and Management |
University College London | Sciences Pau, France | Specializations: history, law, politics and philosophy, fluency in European languages. |
University of Chichester, UK | Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva, Switzerland | MBA (in various specializations) |
University of Hertfordshire, UK | Alliance of International Business Schools | MSc/MBA 9 in various specializations) |
Nottingham Trent University | ISCTE Business School in Lisbon, Portugal; KEDGE Business School in Marseille, France. ESC Clermont Graduate School of Management in Clermont-Ferrand, France; University of Brescia in Brescia, Italy; and National Sun Yat-sen University in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. | Master of International Business |
Must Read: London Universities Marketing
Average cost of a double degree in the UK
Apart from the basic tuition fees, the cost of studying in the UK includes accommodation, visa, daily expenses, transport etc. The costs associated with pursuing a double degree in the UK will range from £6,000 to £30,000 per year (6 00,000 Indian Rupees up to INR 27,00,000). Costs may vary depending on the university and course you choose.
Must Read: Top UK Engineering Universities
Meet Leverage Edu Rockstars
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a double degree?
A double degree involves studying two different fields simultaneously at partner universities, resulting in two separate degrees.
Why study a double degree in the UK?
The double degree expands skills and knowledge across all disciplines, offering global recognition and career benefits.
How much does a double degree cost in the UK?
The cost of a double degree in the UK typically ranges from INR 6,00,000 to INR 27,00,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
Related Blogs
Best Private Student Scholarships to Study in India 2024-25: A Comprehensive Guide | Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK: Full details here |
UK student visa interview questions | Study in UK: 3 University of Essex International Scholarships for Indian Students |
Study in UK for Indian students after 12th grade | Why study in the UK rather than India? |
So, we hope you found this blog about studying in the UK versus India educational. The process of applying for admission to universities abroad can be a tedious task and to go through the process hassle-free, you should seek the help of an expert. Contact our experts at Leverage Edu who can help you complete your visa application and also take the hassle out of writing an impressive SOP!