Enhancing your career prospects with an Australian dual degree

Despite having a population of just 23 million, Australia is the 3rd most popular study destination for international students, just behind the U.S. and the UK. According to QS, Australia is home to seven of the best student cities in the world, with affordability, quality of life, and employer activity being some of the key reasons why international student mobility is on the rise there. However, as well as being a fantastic location to study, the Australian education system is recognised globally due to its high-quality degree programmes in a wide range of subject areas.

Australian degrees are known for their flexibility, offering a number of programmes with major and minor options, thereby allowing students to obtain a unique, tailored degree which will help them gain employment in a specific industry after they graduate.

Dual degrees ≠ dual majors

Another way in which Australian universities offer a flexible approach to learning is through a dual degree programme. Dual degrees should not be confused with dual majors, where students study two majors under one degree title. Instead, dual degrees allow students to work towards two degrees at the same time, enabling them to graduate in a shorter space of time, compared to if they were to complete them in succession.

The dual programme gives students the opportunity to study a combination of subject areas, with one area usually complementing the other based on their career prospects and goals. For example, a student interested in working in the Engineering sector might choose to combine this course with an MBA, giving them the practical skills needed for a successful Engineering career, but also the knowledge and skills required for a senior management position within the industry.

Career mobility across sectors

In addition to improving job prospects straight after graduation, a dual degree also gives students the chance to transfer to a different industry in later years. For example, a student who enrols on to a dual degree program in Art and Law may initially find employment within the creative industries, but can later decide to move on to a career in Law or Politics, rather than having to go back to university as a mature student to take a second degree.

Dual degrees are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Depending on course availability, some dual degrees can be studied at the same university. However, students may be allowed to study at two different institutions if the courses they want are not offered at the same institution. Upon graduation, students will be awarded with two degrees, giving them a competitive edge against students who opted for a single degree programme.

Dual degree programmes are a cost-effective and time-efficient way of completing a degree in two subject areas. However, double degrees mean double the workload, therefore double the commitment and effort required. If it is something you would like to undertake, it is vital that you understand the additional requirements needed to succeed in a dual degree programme, to ensure that you achieve the grades you want and need for your future career.

Images via Shutterstock 

Liked this? Then you’ll love these…

Understanding the Australian Higher Education system

Asian wave behind surge in international students Down Under