Double Majors and Double Degrees

If you complete the requirements of two majors, you will earn either one degree with two majors (“double major”) or two degrees (“double degree”). Which of these you are awarded depends on the name of the degree(s).

Double Majors

You will earn a double major when both majors lead to the same degree name (e.g., BA, BS, BBA). For example, if you complete all degree and major requirements for Accounting and Finance, you will earn a single BBA. degree with two majors. This is also true when the two majors are completed at different times. For example, you may complete your degree and major requirements for the BBA. in Accounting during the Spring Semester and your major requirements for Finance in a subsequent term. This requires that you complete all of the courses required of both majors but only need to meet the minimum total hour requirements (usually about 120 semester hours) for a degree. You are awarded one degree, one diploma, and an additional posting to your transcript regarding the completion of your second major. You will not apply for a second degree and you will not receive a second diploma.

Double Degrees

You will earn a double degree when the two majors lead to differently-named degrees (e.g., BA vs BS). For example, if you complete the requirements of the BA degree in History and a BS degree in Geology, you will earn a double degree resulting in two diplomas. This requires that you complete all of the courses required for both majors but also that you meet the college’s second degree rules—usually additional credit hours above the first degree.

How Double Majors and Double Degrees Display on Diplomas

Information printed on the diploma will be limited to the following:
  • The name of the college granting the degree
  • The student’s name as provided in the diploma name field in Catalyst
  • The degree name
  • University and Latin honors earned at the time of certification

Majors are not printed the diploma unless part of the degree name as approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education and required by the appropriate accreditation body.

Note: This information is applicable to undergraduate degrees only. Graduate students should consult with the Graduate School to ensure that all degree requirements are met in individual programs.