What is a Double Degree?
A double degree (also known as a combined degree) is when you study two university qualifications at the same time — for example, a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Arts. You graduate with two qualifications, usually in less time than if you studied them separately.
At most universities in Australia, a double degree takes around four to five years depending on the combination. It’s super popular with students who want to keep their options open or combine two passions — like engineering and music, law and science, or commerce and computer science.
Why Students Choose Double Degrees
There are heaps of reasons students choose to go down the double degree path:
- More career flexibility: You can work in either field (or combine them in creative ways).
- Broader knowledge base: You get exposed to two different disciplines and ways of thinking.
- Competitive edge: Some employers love versatile candidates.
- Save time: Two degrees at once usually means you graduate faster than if you did them one after the other.
If you’re someone who loved doing both science and humanities in high school and can’t choose one over the other — a double degree might be for you.
👉 Want help deciding your uni preferences? Check out this guide about unpacking university.
But... Are They Worth It?
It depends.
Here’s what to consider before jumping in:
✅ Pros:
- Efficiency: You save 1–2 years of study compared to doing two degrees separately.
- Job Market Flexibility: Great if one industry is volatile — you've got a backup!
- Interdisciplinary strength: You might spot connections between fields (e.g. psychology + marketing) that give you an edge.
❌ Cons:
- Higher workload: More units per semester, more pressure. You’ll need solid time management.
- Longer than a single degree: You’re at uni longer than your single-degree friends.
- Less depth in each field: Some double degrees reduce elective space, which means fewer chances to specialise.
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Real-World Examples
Here are some popular double degree combos and how they work in practice:
- Law + Arts: Arts sharpens your critical thinking and cultural awareness — essential for roles in policy, human rights, or diplomacy where legal skills alone aren't enough.
- Engineering + Commerce: Great for future leaders in infrastructure or tech. You’ll gain both technical design skills and the business acumen to manage budgets, teams, or even your own startup.
- Science + Education: Perfect if you want to teach. You build subject expertise in science while qualifying as a teacher — a high-demand combo, especially in STEM.
- Commerce + Computer Science: Ideal for careers in fintech, analytics or tech product design. You’ll speak both data and dollars — a major asset in today’s job market.
- Psychology + Criminology: Offers insight into both human behaviour and justice systems — a smart pathway into forensic psychology, social work, or criminal justice policy.
Not sure what university suits you? This article on Australia’s Best Universities can help.
Tips if You’re Considering a Double Degree
If you're leaning towards a double, here are a few practical tips:
- Chat to current students: Ask about the workload, balance, and whether they’d do it again.
- Think about the overlap: Some degrees pair better than others (e.g. law + commerce share core units).
- Plan your future: Will both degrees help you get to where you want to go?
Here’s a guide for choosing the university for you that may be helpful in deciding how to progress.
The Final Verdict
A double degree can be totally worth it — but only if you’re up for the extra effort and have a clear reason for doing it. If you're choosing it just because it “sounds impressive,” think twice. Uni is a long game, and the best path is the one that aligns with your goals, interests, and capacity.
FAQs
Do double degrees cost more?
Yes, slightly. While you’ll save time, you’re still paying for more units overall than a single degree. But many students say the long-term career benefit makes it worth it.
Can I drop one half of a double degree later?
Yep! Most unis allow you to exit early with one qualification if you change your mind. Just chat with your academic advisor about how that works.
Is it harder to get into a double degree?
Sometimes. Some double degrees have higher ATAR requirements — especially when law or medicine is involved. If you’re unsure, check out the KIS ATAR calculator to help guide your goals.
Want more personalised study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
Written by KIS Academics Tutor for WACE, Simran Vaishnav. Simran is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine at Bond University and has received stellar reviews from her past KIS Academics students. You can view Simran's profile here and request her as a tutor.
