Minors vs. double majors: What to consider

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A general overall view of the new lobby of the Gatton College of Business and Economics building in Lexington, Ky. on Wednesday, August 26, 2015. Photo by Michael Reaves | Staff.

Madison Rexroat

Minors are often a requirement for a major, but they could turn into a major, themselves. Double majoring can make you stand out in a competitive job market, and you might even find that you enjoy it more than your primary major. Before you change your schedule, though, consider the following questions:

Do you have time to double major?

If you want to graduate in four years, your schedule might only permit a minor, not a second major. The extra homework and study hours might also put a strain on your grades (or sanity).

Would you benefit from a second major?

Having a second major can offer employers a variety of skills that they find important. You can double major in something related to your first major, or you can double major in something completely different, which will both give you a new set of skills and set you apart from other job seekers. However, keep in mind that it is better to excel in one thing than do poorly in multiple.

Would other academic arrangements offer more?

While a double major looks good on a resume, so does work experience, internships and study abroad. Depending on what career you want, you might want to focus on gaining experience rather than beefing up your education, as both are important when applying for jobs.

To read more on this issue from USA Today College, click here.