What is the difference between a double major and a dual degree?

Question

I am starting college this fall semester and this has been eating away at me but I couldn't figure out who to ask. I have 99% decided on majoring in Biology because I want to get into medicine (specifically neurology). So I was thinking of how I could do that and at the same time get a teaching degree and get certified (because I love to teach!).

I want to know if there is a difference between a dual degree and a double major, and if there is, which one would be better for the plan I outlined?

Thanks

Answer 1

Two ways of saying the same thing - coming out with two different degree paths. =)

Answer 2

Linguistically, there doesn't seem to be a big difference between them.

I've usually heard people refer to a double major in regards to getting two bachelor's degrees.  I've usually heard people refer to dual degrees in terms of getting two graduate degrees -- like a JD/MBA.

Answer 3

A double major still gives you ONE degree. A dual degree is just that- you wind up with 2 whole degrees. Both of these will require extra classes, but a dual degree takes a lot more credits than a double major. In my opinion, I don't think a dual degree will get you much farther in life than a double major though.