Prospective Dual Degree Students
If you are a Public Health student who is considering dual degrees, your first step is to review the information and questions below. Completing dual degrees requires a significant amount of time and effort, and can even have additional tuition implications. We urge you to carefully consider whether or not this option is right for you.
I'm interested in pursuing dual degrees. What do I need to know?
Who is eligible to pursue dual degrees?
Students in Good Academic Standing who have received approval from advisors in both schools in which they are interested may apply to pursue a dual degree. Students should review the dual degree application policies for each school to confirm their eligibility and time frame for applying for a dual degree. Students can plan for and work toward dual degree requirements in their first year, however working towards the requirements does not guarantee admission to the School of Public Health. Students who have been admitted to the School of Public Health and have completed 30 credits on the Ann Arbor campus and the prerequisite courses are typically eligible to declare a dual degree.
What are the degree requirements for dual degrees?
Please review the degree requirements.
How long does it take to complete dual degrees?
The time frame for completing dual degrees varies from student to student, and can depend on the number of credits and degree requirements that are completed prior to entering the School of Public Health. The SPH/LSA dual degree programs will likely take 9 to 11 terms to complete due to the degree requirements. Students also have the option to complete additional coursework during their Spring and/or Summer terms, or to stay on for one or two extra terms if additional time is needed. Preparing a customized course plan will help students answer this question given their particular circumstances.
Are there any majors in LSA that I can't pursue as an SPH/LSA dual degree student?
Students declaring a dual degree between LSA and SPH cannot choose LSA's Biology, Health, and Society major.
What do I need to do to graduate as a dual degree student?
All degree requirements for both programs must be completed. Both degrees must be earned concurrently (that is, conferred at the same time). Although students may finish all of their requirements for one of their degrees in an earlier term, neither degree will be granted until all requirements for both degrees have been satisfied.
How does advising work?
Academic advising for each degree will come independently from advisors in each program. Students are responsible for meeting with an advisor in the School of Public Health and their other degree program.
What is the difference between dual degrees and a minor?
Minors are earned by completing only those requirements set forth specifically for that minor (generally 12 to 18 credits), whereas dual degree students must complete all degree requirements for both of their desired degrees.
How do I decide if dual degrees are right for me?
Pursuing dual degrees is a significant commitment which requires careful thought. Here are some self-reflection questions that can be used to help you make this important decision:
- Why do I want two undergraduate degrees?
- What are my personal, professional and educational goals? Would two degrees promote them, and if so, how?
- What do I want to get out of a dual degree course of study?
- Do I want to commit the extra time, effort and money needed to complete a second degree while I'm an undergraduate student in the School of Public Health?
- Will I be able to focus simultaneously on two degree programs?
- Can I balance dual degree studies with other important commitments in my life such as internship and job recruiting, club and extracurricular activities, work, and other endeavors that help me be a well-rounded and unique individual?
- Would pursuing dual degrees leave me less time to pursue my public health interests and to take public health electives?
- What kind of credentials will help me in the career in which I'm interested? Is it important to have a second degree, or is the intrinsic value of taking classes in an area of interest enough?
- What are the pros and cons of pursuing an undergraduate degree in public health, dual degrees, or perhaps a minor in my other area of interest?
We encourage students to engage in serious reflection on the issues relevant to pursuing a dual degree. Additional guidance can be sought from your academic advisors.
What are the next steps?
Once you are ready to apply for dual degrees, proceed to the Dual Degree Applicants web page for further information. After you have officially become a dual degree student, please refer to the Declared Dual Degree Students web page.
Further questions?
Schedule an advising appointment or email your academic advisor.
If you would like to receive more information about a specific department or program, please connect with us through our prospective student inquiry form.