Double Majors
Bringing truly interdisciplinary studies to life at Alfred University
Discover a multitude of double major opportunities at Alfred University, where you can seamlessly integrate two distinct fields of study into your coursework. Benefit from a well-rounded education, gain a competitive edge in the job market, and cultivate a versatile skill set by exploring the advantages of pursuing double majors.
What is a Double Major?
A double major refers to any Alfred University student completing the requirements for a second academic major or field of study at the same time that they are working on a primary degree program. Truly interdisciplinary in nature, students who graduate with a double major receive acknowledgement of both the primary degree and the second major [on their transcript].
Why Should You Consider a Double Major?
You may choose to double major for a few different reasons. First, it allows you to explore and specialize in two distinct areas of interest, providing you with a broader and more versatile skill set. Additionally, double majoring can enhance career prospects by making you more adaptable to diverse job opportunities after graduation and demonstrating a commitment to a well-rounded education.
Alfred University offers undergraduate students various options to pursue interdisciplinary studies through double majors, each with individual requirements for completion. Our current offering of double majors include:
- Accounting
- Astrophysics*
- Biology
- Biomaterials Engineering*
- Business Administration*
- Business Analytics
- Ceramic Engineering*
- Chemistry
- Communication Studies
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice Studies
- Data Analytics
- Electrical Engineering*
- English
- Environmental Studies (Natural Science)
- Environmental Studies (Environmental Science)
- Environment and Society
- Equine Business Management
- Finance
- Geology
- Geology for Earth Science Educators
- Glass Engineering Science*
- Healthcare Planning and Management
- History
- Marketing
- Materials Science and Engineering*
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering*
- Philosophy
- Physics*
- Planetary Geology
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Renewable Energy Engineering*
- Sociology
*Certain restrictions apply.
Are double majors available to students from outside of their current major's college or school?
YES! A double major from an Alfred University college or school other than your primary degree's college or school provides even more opportunities to blend your academic interests into your Alfred experience.
For example, a student in the Inamori School of Engineering majoring in Mechanical Engineering might consider double majoring in Marketing (housed in the College of Business) to create a variety of interesting career paths that blend technical expertise with business acumen, such as Supply Chain Manager, Industrial Market Research Analyst, Technical Sales Engineer, and R&D Product Manager.
With careful planning, dedication to your studies, and the assistance of your academic advising team, you may meet the academic requirements for both majors within the usual timeframe for completing a degree. We are here to assist you in planning your double major each step of the way!
A double major is a grouping of classes that allows in depth study in a particular field of study. Students may complete the requirements for a double major while they are working on separate primary degree program. When they are done, they will have earned one degree in their primary field of study and a double major in a secondary discipline, displaying proficiency in both areas.
On the other hand, a dual degree involves a student completing the requirements for two entirely separate degree programs, resulting in the awarding of two distinct degrees. Double majoring is often more common and allows for exploration within a single degree, while dual degrees involve a more comprehensive study across two distinct fields.
How Do I Get Started?
Declaring a double major is a straightforward process that requires only a few steps to be completed:
- Research your double major's requirements. These can be found right on the program page for the double major you're considering adding to your studies.
- Meet with your academic advising team of faculty and staff who can assist you in planning a seamless roadmap and course schedule to complete your double major requirements. Your first point of contact on that team is Jean Cardinale, Alfred University's coordinator for interdisciplinary programs.
- Declare your double major with the Registrar's Office. We'll connect you with the appropriate forms and information to complete this step beforehand.
- Stay informed and monitor your progress once your double major is approved. You may be required to recertify or meet periodically with your advising team to ensure you continue to meet both double major program requirements.