dual major

USAGE SUMMARY

"dual major" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a college student who is studying two different subjects simultaneously and will graduate with two majors. Example: "Sarah is a dual major in biology and psychology, balancing her love for science with her fascination for the human mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

His transcripts and diplomas showed one master's degree with a dual major.

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Toner graduated summa cum laude, class of 1976, with a dual major from The College of Arts and Sciences and the S.I.

The New York Times

QUINN RALLINS, 23, graduated magna cum laude last year from Morehouse College with a dual major in international studies and Spanish.

The New York Times

He graduated in 2009 from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a dual major in Management and Music.

The New York Times

Mr. Moreno was a senior with a dual major in the marketing department of the Lubin School of Business, Mr. Cory said.

The New York Times

Mr. Schweikert is one of 71 students at Webb, the smallest accredited engineering college in the country and the only one offering a dual major and bachelor's degree in naval architecture and marine engineering.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

At Miami University of Ohio, where she earned her bachelor's degree in 1967, she had dual majors -- in American history and political science.

The New York Times

But for Sukhnoor Taluja, 24, who graduated from Rutgers with dual majors in information technology and economics in January 2003, lifelong earnings potential is of little solace.

The New York Times

The Philadelphia native graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 2013, dual majoring in English with a nonfiction specialization and Communication.

Huffington Post

"If you have students with dual majors in Finance and Family Enterprise, we would be interested in interviewing them for openings in our Family Enterprise Division".

Huffington Post

The college boasts 39 academic departments offering 56 major programs, while students are free to design special majors or engage in dual majors.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's academic qualifications, clearly state the two majors and the degree earned (e.g., "She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree and a "dual major" in English and History").

Common error

Avoid using "dual major" when referring to earning two separate degrees. A "dual major" involves studying two subjects within a single degree program, whereas a "dual degree" results in two distinct qualifications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dual major" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an adjective to describe a student's academic pursuit. It specifies that the student is engaged in the study of two distinct subjects simultaneously. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dual major" refers to a student pursuing two different subjects within a single degree program. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a correct and reasonably common expression. While "double major" serves as a direct synonym, other alternatives like "joint major" or "combined majors" may suit specific contexts. As highlighted, it's important not to confuse a "dual major" with a "dual degree", which signifies the attainment of two separate qualifications. In essence, "dual major" succinctly communicates the breadth and interdisciplinary nature of a student's academic endeavors. It appears more frequently in News & Media and Science domains, reflecting its relevance in diverse discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double major

This term is a direct synonym, offering the same meaning with different wording.

joint major

This option emphasizes the combination of two majors into a single, integrated program.

combined majors

This highlights the act of combining two areas of study.

two majors

A more straightforward way to express the concept.

interdisciplinary major

Suggests that the two majors are related and studied in an integrated way.

multiple majors

Indicates the pursuit of more than one major, but doesn't specify the number.

dual degree

Refers to earning two separate degrees, not necessarily within the same program.

double concentration

Suggests a focus on two specific areas within a broader major.

concurrent degrees

Implies the simultaneous pursuit of two distinct degrees.

combined course of study

A more general term for a program that integrates multiple disciplines.

FAQs

What does it mean to be a "dual major"?

A "dual major" signifies that a student is pursuing two different fields of study simultaneously within the same degree program, ultimately graduating with both majors recognized on their transcript.

Is a "dual major" the same as a "dual degree"?

No, a "dual major" involves studying two subjects within one degree program, while a "dual degree" means earning two separate degrees, potentially from different institutions.

What are the benefits of pursuing a "dual major"?

Pursuing a "dual major" can broaden your skillset, increase career opportunities, and provide a more interdisciplinary perspective compared to focusing on a single major.

What can I say instead of "dual major"?

You can use alternatives like "double major", "joint major", or "combined majors" depending on the context.