A Guide on Dual Degrees: Benefits, How to Get, and Institutes Offering Dual Degrees

From the perspective of the Indian academic system, the big news for all seekers of education, following the announcement of the University Grants Commission (UGC) notification, is that Indian universities can now offer dual degrees. This is a great benefit, especially for working individuals and students who wish to make their academic endeavors more productive and gain qualifications in the shortest possible time. However, a critical factor is your decision regarding which institutions to pursue these dual degrees in India and what courses to take. This choice will determine the quality of education you will receive and, consequently, your prospects. If you are uncertain about these aspects, this blog post will assist you. In this post, we discuss the following: 

• What are dual degrees? 
• How to obtain dual degrees in India? 
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of dual degrees? 
• How to choose the best dual degrees in India? 
• What are the top institutes offering dual degrees in India? 

So let’s not waste any more time and get started.

What Are Dual Degrees?

A dual degree is a systematic program pursued in two instances, resulting in the same qualification. Therefore, an individual can obtain it from the same university or from two diverse institutions in different countries. Students often desire to gain knowledge in several spheres or areas for enhanced job opportunities. That's where the dual degree or double degree program comes into play. Though this can be a challenging task, it can be extremely beneficial, especially in today's competitive environment. Dual degree programs are becoming popular, particularly at undergraduate institutions where students may wish to work hard and earn two degrees simultaneously. This approach saves a significant amount of time compared to pursuing those degrees one after the other.

A dual degree program will enable you to receive a comprehensive education as well as gain expertise in two diverse subjects. For example, you could graduate with both a B.Com and a Bachelor of Business Administration. Employers appreciate employees with broad knowledge across different areas. However, it is important to clarify that a dual degree program isn’t just a dual major or an integrated course. For those who want to stand out from other students and be competitive in their future careers, pursuing a dual degree course is the best option.

 

What Are the UGC Guidelines for Dual Degrees?

According to the UGC notification, students can opt for online dual degree programs in India. However, students can only pursue a regular dual degree program only if the courses offered have different class times and do not overlap with one another's schedules.

Students can pursue a dual degree program in any of the following combinations:

 

• Two regular degrees at the same time.

• One regular degree and one ODL/online degree at the same time.

• Two ODL/online degrees at the same time.

 

• Only those higher education institutes that are recognized by the concerned government bodies can offer online/ODL courses to students.

What Are the Benefits of Dual Degrees?

There are various reasons why students and professionals find it beneficial to pursue dual degrees. They help speed up the process of seeking promotion within an organization. Some of the key benefits of obtaining dual degrees are explained below.

Benefits of Dual Degree Programs	Details
Broadened Knowledge Base	A dual degree program allows you to attend two different schools while taking two different courses simultaneously. This enhances your knowledge and prepares you to better understand both fields. For example, if you are pursuing a major in business management with a secondary major in computer science, you will gain insights into both the technological and managerial aspects of the field.
Better Career Opportunities	With a dual degree, you possess qualifications in two different fields rather than just one. This can create a broader range of job opportunities and make you more marketable. Such opportunities may exist in industries you had never considered working in before.
Time and Cost Efficiency	Although it may seem that obtaining a dual degree could be more time- and money-consuming, this is often not the case. Dual degrees can sometimes be completed in a shorter duration than it would take to earn the two degrees separately. This implies that you are likely to reduce both the amount of time spent on training and the tuition fees incurred.
Interdisciplinary Approach	Today, we live in a globalized society where one does not have to limit oneself to a single field, particularly regarding career development aspirations. By obtaining a dual degree, you can approach problems from various angles, encouraging innovation. This is beneficial as it enables you to develop processes and constructive methods throughout your assignments.
Competitive Edge	A comprehensive review of the job market today reveals how challenging it is to navigate the job search process. This is why, as mentioned earlier, earning a dual degree can be your ticket to success. It promotes you as a competent professional who employs diverse approaches to problem-solving.
Network Expansion	Pursuing a dual degree allows you to be part of two vibrant academic communities. There is also the opportunity to create connections and network with individuals from various fields. Such connections can prove invaluable years down the line as they aid in securing employment.
Personal Growth	There are many reasons to encourage distance learning, including pursuing a dual degree, where self-satisfaction comes into play. You will need to be prepared to undertake tasks that may be unfamiliar, manage your time effectively, and balance multiple activities. These skills will foster self-sufficiency long after graduation.

 

What Are the Limitations of Dual Degrees?

There are some drawbacks for dual specialization also, which are explained as : 

• Larger load of study: Undertaking a dual degree program requires students to manage two course loads simultaneously and even take additional subjects beyond the two degree qualifiers. This may pose a significant burden, especially since the pressures can be overwhelming if no proper planning is done to handle the load. For this, one needs to be highly disciplined, skilled at prioritizing and organizing, and extremely proactive in devoting themselves.
• Reduced liberty: Due to the fact that most dual degree programs are structured in modules, individuals with other interests, such as elective courses or subjects, may find those requiring dual degrees quite boring. If you are someone who loves knowing a little about everything, a dual degree may be too limiting for you.
• Create confusion: While a degree may open more doors than a single degree, there is also the concern that not all these doors lead to the same room. This can create confusion for the aspirant when deciding on an appropriate career path in the future.

In spite of these drawbacks, many students pursue dual degrees since they unlock a higher level of career progression and growth.

How to Choose the Right Online Dual Degrees in India?

Especially in the present times, when all colleges in India have started offering online dual degree programs, it becomes increasingly difficult to select the best and most suitable one for you, given the numerous options available. Strain yourself as much as necessary, as this will significantly determine how far your career or aspirations will go. Below are the points to consider while choosing the right online dual degrees:

1.Decide the end goals of your career

Start by determining the end goals of your career. The following critical questions must be kept in mind:

• Did you work in any firm before?
• Do you have an industry in mind?
• Which skills are needed for that industry?
• What other areas of discipline do you already have prior learning in?

The answers to these questions will assist in narrowing down potential degree programs. For example, if a student wants to pursue a career in administration but is also inclined toward information technology, then a dual degree of MBA (IT) or MBS (IT) with a Bachelor of Technology will suit that individual’s needs perfectly.

2. Investigate the institution

This aspect is also emphasized here. Not all institutions provide equal quality of education and facilities. Investigate the reputation of the institutions you are planning to enroll in. Look at factors such as availability of accreditation, qualifications of faculty members, successes of graduates, and relationships with the industrial world. All these factors will help you find the most suitable course that fits your goals.

3. Flexibility and support

Apart from these attributes, it also entails heavy self-discipline, organization, and time management. This is one of the major differences between traditional and other forms of education. The best programs available online offer assistance and flexibility to ensure that you do well. Look for programs that encourage flexible course schedules, accessible professors, and comprehensive student support services.

4. Consider the curriculum

As an applicant to one of the dual degree programs, the details of the teaching curriculum, especially the courses undertaken, are essential and unique. Consider these questions to gain a better understanding of the curriculum:

• Are the specifics aligned with what you actually want to learn?
• Does it provide practical, real-world opportunities?
• Is it in line with industry expectations?
• What are the benefits after completing the programs?

A well-designed curriculum can greatly impact how well you perform in school and in your professional life.

5. Cost and financial aid

That’s why you should always consider the tuition costs of the program and the possibilities for obtaining financial aid. You can save a significant amount by selecting a dual degree program rather than pursuing two separate degrees; however, there will still be considerable expenses.

Consequently, consider the amount incurred against the distant future payback from your investments. Have a reasonable career strategy that you intend to implement after obtaining your dual degree.

 

How to Choose the Best Online Dual Degree Institutes in India?

Now that you have understood how to pick the right online dual degree, it is time to choose an appropriate institute. An online dual degree in India is offered by various institutions, which is essential for furthering one’s education and career prospects.

Some important factors to consider are outlined below:

Benefits of Dual Degree Programs	Description
Inquire about the accreditations	Accreditation is a process in which quality agencies, usually governmental or statutory bodies, evaluate colleges and universities to assess their educational standards. This quality appraisal is conducted by the institutions themselves or by third parties. Therefore, always ensure that the college you choose is accredited, as it preserves the value and legitimacy of the award you will obtain.
Determine the quality of the faculty members	Another crucial aspect is the quality of the faculty. Seek institutions that have highly skilled staff in their areas of specialization. They can provide valuable industry insights, real-world examples, and more to enrich the learning experience.
Evaluate the contents of the course	Review the course outlines. While some details may vary from one institution to another, the best programs will feature current, inclusive, and applicable content in the field. This ensures that you acquire the skills that employers are looking for.
Consider the performance of past students	Examine how well former students of the institution have fared. This can provide insight into the quality of education offered and how it is perceived in the job market.
Consider value for funds	Cost should never be the sole determining factor; however, it is a key consideration. Seek institutions that provide a favorable price-to-education quality ratio. Make your choice based on comparisons of the relative worth added by different institutions.
Take into consideration the nature of the courses	The flexibility of learning is one of the primary advantages of online education. Ensure you select an institute with study modes that fit your schedule. Additionally, keep in mind that you will be pursuing two degrees simultaneously, making it essential to choose a program that allows for this flexibility.

 

Institutes Offering Online Dual Degrees in India

There are many institutes in India that offer online dual degrees. Following are the top ones:

1. Manav Rachna CDOE
2. Amity Online
3. IGNOU

Dual Degrees vs Dual Majors: Differences

Many students and professionals think that dual degrees and dual majors are the same. However, the differences are quite significant. As we have already discussed, in a dual degree program, you can pursue two courses from different universities or institutes at the same level, and these institutions do not need to be in the same country. In contrast, a dual major program allows you to specialize in two different fields under the same degree. For instance, in an MBA dual major program, you can focus on both marketing and finance specializations.

Dual Degree vs. Integrated Degrees: Differences

While integrated degrees and dual degree programs are similar, they are not the same. There are several fundamental differences that make them unique. Here are a few key distinctions to keep in mind; a dual degree program enables you to earn separate degrees, but they must be at the same academic level. You cannot pursue a postgraduate degree alongside a master's degree as part of a dual degree program. For example, you can simultaneously enroll in BBA and BSc courses, but not in BBA and MSc or MBA programs.

On the other hand, integrated degrees allow you to pursue an undergraduate course and a postgraduate course simultaneously. The only requirement is that these degrees must be related and in the same domain. Additionally, you can choose different specializations for your undergraduate and postgraduate courses. This means that as part of an integrated degree program, you could complete a BBA in Marketing and an MBA in Finance, or a BSc in Data Science and an MSc in Cyber Security at the same time.

Conclusion

Online dual degrees in India are becoming more popular than ever before. Most students are eager to maximize their learning opportunities. With the online options available, students can take full advantage of their academic preferences. While online dual degree programs can be a great option, it is crucial to ensure that you are making the right choice. You must give sufficient attention to make it work for you. Decide after careful consideration. Evaluate the courses and institutions where you plan to pursue online dual degree programs. Depending on your career goals, determine whether an online dual degree program is the right move for you. If you are convinced it is the best option, proceed with confidence. Additionally, prepare yourself for the challenges that come with pursuing online dual degree programs; you may need to work twice as hard as you would when completing a regular online degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is doing online dual degrees worth it?

Yes, it is. There are several benefits to pursuing dual online degrees in India. They can save you a lot of time and money while introducing you to two different academic domains. You will also be able to acquire more skills and industry insights from the dual degree, making you more employment-ready.

2. Am I allowed to pursue two degrees at the same time in India?

Yes, you are. Since the UGC notification in 2022, you can pursue online dual degrees in India. They are fully allowed and recognized, carrying the same weight as other regular degrees.

3. Are dual degrees and dual majors the same?

No, they are not the same. A dual degree means that you are allowed to take two degrees at the same academic level or parallel study path, but in different domains of study. For example, while doing a dual degree, one can earn a B.Com and a BA in English simultaneously. On the other hand, a dual major implies that one is pursuing degrees under the same course but concentrating on more than one subject at once. An example would be pursuing an MBA with specializations in marketing and finance.

4. What online dual degree programs are worth considering and pursuing within India?

The best online degree courses are subjective, so no one can definitively suggest options. This is why it is very important to conduct thorough research and find the best online dual degree options in India based on your specific requirements.

5. Are students allowed to pursue foreign courses along with dual degrees in India that are offered through online modes?

Yes, students can pursue courses in foreign countries while enrolled in online dual degrees from India. Although most international universities offer such options, it would be wise to consult the admissions department before making a decision.