Double Major Pathways
The College of Arts and Sciences highly encourages students to choose more than one area of study (double-majors, dual degree, cross-college majors – for details, click here). There are usually enough elective credit hours in your degree program to accommodate at least one of the following. In fact, many classes count toward multiple programs, allowing you to "double dip" and thereby reduce the number of courses required to complete the program.
Why a Double Major With a Language?
There is significant research about the benefits of doing a double-major, particularly, with a language program. Learn more about it by clicking on each of the reasons mentioned below.
Research indicates that language skills are often in demand for positions in diplomacy, global marketing, multinational corporations, and international organizations, which may offer higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement.
This cultural competence is highly valued in global contexts where understanding local customs, practices, and societal structures can provide a significant advantage.
These improved communication skills are particularly valuable in professions where interacting with people, understanding diverse cultures, and working across language barriers are essential.
Research shows that learning a second language enhances cognitive abilities, such as memory, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Double-majoring in a language can improve your ability to think analytically and critically.
A double major with a language can make you uniquely qualified for specialized roles, such as translator, interpreter, or language consultant, especially in fields like healthcare, law, technology, and journalism.
Studies indicate that bilingual employees tend to earn higher salaries compared to their monolingual counterparts, particularly when the language skills are paired with technical or business expertise.
A language major combined with another field prepares students for interdisciplinary graduate programs, such as international law, global health, international business, or linguistics.
Language majors often have access to a global network of peers, professors, and professionals in various sectors such as diplomacy, journalism, and the arts. This expanded network can be crucial for professional development and career advancement.
Research suggests that mastering a new language is personally fulfilling and boosts confidence, especially when paired with a complementary field. The ability to engage with another culture through language fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.