Can I Pursue Two Degrees at a Time?

Pursuing a degree requires dedication, time management, and hard work. With limited course spaces and increased online degree options, some students want to scale up and take two degrees simultaneously. 

This article will help you discover the guidelines and restrictions surrounding pursuing two degrees simultaneously and the benefits and pitfalls of taking on this challenge. 

Can I pursue two degrees at a time?

In April 2022, The University Grants Commission (UGC) approved proposals to let students in India study two full-time degrees simultaneously starting the academic year 2022–2023 [1]. This was in response to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which outlined the need for varied and expansive pathways to learning, both formally and informally. 

Before this ruling, students were allowed to take one full-time in-person course simultaneously with a distance-learning course.

Which two degrees can I study together?

In India, you can now study two full-time academic programmes simultaneously, including in-person courses. To break this down, you can study the following:

• Two full-time academic programmes

• One full-time in-person and one online academic programme 

• Two online academic programmes

This includes dual degrees at two separate universities. The academic programmes do not have to be at the same institution. 

Are there any restrictions?

Studying for two degrees simultaneously can be demanding, especially if you choose full-time degrees at different colleges or universities. Several restrictions are in place to ensure that you can maximise your experience.

• No timetable clashes: Degree programmes are only eligible for dual study with no timetable clashes. As degree programmes have minimal teaching hours, it might be possible to take a class for one degree in the morning and another in the evening, for example. Universities set their own rules on attendance, so students must ensure they meet these individual requirements. 

• Only UGC-approved universities: The UGC states that only universities offering courses they approve are eligible for joint study. This includes distance learning courses as well as in-person courses.

• No PhD: Students studying undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees, or diplomas can take on two programmes simultaneously, but this does not apply to PhD students. The workload of a PhD course is more intense and, therefore, unsuitable for doubling up. 

Benefits of studying two degrees at the same time

UGC’s ruling to allow students to study two degrees simultaneously is part of an effort through the NEP 2020 to provide flexible educational options for students in India and help resolve the issue of limited seat availability in a regular stream. The choice to allow dual-degree study has several benefits. Let’s take a look.

Better qualified

Competition for degree-level jobs in India is high. Having two degrees increases skills and experience and can increase your chances of securing a good job. Studying both an academic and a vocational programme, or even two academic programs, expands your skills, allowing you to pursue jobs in a wider area of interest.

Saves time

Completing two degree programmes at the same time saves you years of study. A bachelor's degree typically takes three years to complete, and a professional course can take up to five, so completing two degrees at the same time helps you take your first steps into a career more quickly. 

Flexibility

Allowing students to study both online and in-person, as well as in an academic or vocational programme, offers more flexibility in structuring their learning and covering their subjects. 

Wider scope of study

UGC's ruling means that you can learn differently, covering a wider scope of study than just attending one in-person course. The new system allows you to study both vocational and academic courses simultaneously, opening up new opportunities and career options.

Location isn’t a limiting factor when choosing an online or in-person degree programme or a combination. Online courses are not dependent on where you are based, meaning you can choose degree courses from any institution. 

Builds character

Studying two degrees simultaneously is challenging and requires multitasking, time management, and accountability. However, this effort is also a great way to build character and train yourself to be competitive, which can be useful in the workplace. 

Possible downsides of studying two degrees at the same time

Studying for a dual degree is a big commitment, so it's worth considering the possible cons of doing so. With the first year of this new system in place, it’s possible to use feedback from current students as a guide. Let’s take a look at some possible downsides. 

High workload

Studying for a degree is time-consuming when done well. Studying two degrees at the same time doubles the workload. Consider how this will affect your time, resources, and capacity to complete your work to a high standard. Feedback from the year-to-date shows that fitting in the workload of two degrees is difficult, especially when a degree is an in-person commitment [2].

Less time for extracurricular activities

While studying and academic learning are important, employers want well-rounded individuals who demonstrate abilities beyond academic aptitude. Studying for two degrees means less time for anything else, including extracurricular activities that develop workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, and planning.  

Cost

Studying two degrees simultaneously means paying more fees upfront. Even though it isn’t more expensive than studying one degree after the other, the fees are due simultaneously, meaning you have to pay more at once. 

Start your degree with Coursera

Are you looking at degree or dual degree options? Studying for an online degree allows you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. On Coursera, you’ll find a range of online learning degree courses that pair well with in-person degrees or other distant learning options. Some options from top Indian universities include a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, delivered by Birla Institute of Technology and Science, and an Executive MBA, delivered by IIT Roorkee.