You're considering a double major at Northwestern University – that's an exciting and ambitious goal! Many students at Northwestern successfully pursue multiple areas of study, but it's important to understand what that truly entails. It's not just about taking more classes; it's about strategic planning, time management, and a genuine passion for both fields. Let's break down how easy (or challenging) it can be, step-by-step.
Is it Easy to Double Major at Northwestern? A Step-by-Step Guide
The short answer is: it depends. It's definitely doable for many, but the "ease" factor is highly variable and hinges on several crucial elements. Northwestern's quarter system, diverse schools, and rigorous academic environment mean that double majoring requires careful consideration.
Step 1: Engage with Your Ambition – Is a Double Major Right for You?
Before diving into the logistics, let's start with you. Take a moment to honestly reflect on why you want to double major.
What are your academic passions? Are there two distinct fields that genuinely captivate you, and you feel that studying both in depth will enrich your intellectual journey and future goals?
What are your career aspirations? Do these two majors complement each other in a way that aligns with your post-graduation plans? Sometimes a minor or a certificate might be a more efficient path to acquire specific skills or knowledge.
What is your current academic performance like? Double majoring is demanding. Do you feel confident in your ability to handle a heavier workload while maintaining good grades?
Are you prepared for potential sacrifices? A packed academic schedule might mean less time for extracurriculars, social events, or even sleep.
If you've considered these points and your enthusiasm remains strong, then let's move on!
Step 2: Understand Northwestern's Academic Structure
Northwestern is comprised of several distinct undergraduate schools, each with its own set of degree requirements. This is a critical factor in determining the feasibility and "ease" of a double major.
Sub-heading: The Importance of Your Primary School
Your primary school (where you are admitted and where you will receive your degree) dictates the majority of your general education requirements, sometimes called "distribution requirements" or "foundational disciplines."
Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences (WCAS): This is Northwestern's largest undergraduate school and often offers the most flexibility for double majors within its own departments. WCAS students need to fulfill a range of distribution requirements (e.g., sciences, humanities, social sciences, formal studies).
McCormick School of Engineering: McCormick has its own rigorous curriculum with specific engineering requirements, often making an in-school double major (two engineering majors) more straightforward than an inter-school double major.
School of Communication (SoC): SoC has distinct requirements for its various majors (e.g., Radio/Television/Film, Theatre, Communication Studies). Double majoring within SoC is generally not allowed, and taking an SoC major as a second major when your primary major is outside SoC is also not permitted. However, dual degrees (earning a degree from SoC and another school) are possible.
Bienen School of Music: Bienen offers both Bachelor of Music (BM) and Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA in Music) degrees. A BA in Music is often more flexible for combining with other majors.
Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications: Medill has a specialized curriculum focused on journalism and IMC.
School of Education and Social Policy (SESP): SESP focuses on interdisciplinary studies in education and social policy.
Sub-heading: Double Major vs. Dual Degree vs. Adjunct Major
It's crucial to understand the nuances of how Northwestern defines these options:
Double Major: This is when you complete the requirements for two majors, and both appear on one transcript, leading to one degree (from your primary school). This is often the most common and "easiest" route, especially if both majors are within the same school.
Dual Degree: This means you complete the full degree requirements for two separate undergraduate schools, resulting in two distinct degrees (e.g., a Bachelor of Arts from Weinberg and a Bachelor of Science from McCormick). This path typically takes five years, as you must fulfill all requirements for both degrees, including their respective general education requirements.
Adjunct Major: Some schools, like the School of Communication, may offer an "adjunct major" for students whose primary major is in that school, allowing them to pursue a second major outside of their primary school's offerings. This results in one degree from the primary school, with the adjunct major listed on the transcript.
Step 3: Assess Course Overlap and Credit Load
This is where the "ease" really comes into play.
Course Requirements: Look up the exact course requirements for both majors you're considering. How many unique courses does each require?
Double-Counting: Northwestern generally allows for some "double-counting" of courses, where a single course can fulfill requirements for both majors or for a major and a general education requirement. This is your best friend when double majoring! The more overlap you find, the "easier" it will be to fit everything into your four years. Be aware that some departments or schools may have stricter rules on how many courses can be double-counted. For example, the School of Communication explicitly states no double counting of courses between a communication major and a music major in their dual degree program.
AP/IB Credits: If you entered Northwestern with a significant number of AP or IB credits, these can be extremely valuable. They can fulfill distribution requirements or even some introductory major requirements, freeing up space in your schedule for your second major.
Total Credits: A typical Northwestern degree requires 45 units (courses), or approximately 4-5 courses per quarter for 12 quarters. If your chosen double majors require a combined total significantly higher than this after accounting for overlaps and AP credits, you might be looking at consistently taking five classes a quarter, summer courses, or even a fifth year.
Sub-heading: In-School vs. Inter-School Double Majors
In-School Double Majors (e.g., two majors within Weinberg): These are often the most straightforward. The general education requirements are the same for both majors, and there's often more natural overlap between departments within the same school. For example, a Political Science and Economics double major within Weinberg is very common and manageable.
Inter-School Double Majors (e.g., Weinberg and McCormick): These are more challenging but certainly possible. If you want to pursue a major in a school different from your primary one, you'll likely need to "interschool transfer" into the school that will grant your degree. This means you will follow the general education requirements of the new primary school, plus the major requirements of both. For example, if you're in Weinberg and want to double major with an engineering field, you might need to transfer to McCormick. The Weinberg College states that if you want to complete majors in two Northwestern schools, you will likely only complete the degree requirements for one school, although you will complete the major requirements in both.
Step 4: Strategic Course Planning and Advising
This is arguably the most important step. Proactive planning is key to a successful double major.
Sub-heading: Map Out Your Four Years Early
Freshman Year Focus: Even if you're not ready to declare, use your freshman year to knock out as many general education requirements and introductory courses for both potential majors as possible.
Sophomore Year Declaration: Most schools require you to declare at least one major by the end of your sophomore year. This is a good time to solidify your plans for the second major as well.
Utilize Online Resources: Northwestern's departmental websites will have detailed major requirements. Use these to create a tentative four-year course plan.
Consider Summer Courses: Taking a summer course at Northwestern or transferring credits from another institution (with prior approval) can lighten your load during the academic year.
Study Abroad Considerations: If you plan to study abroad, factor that into your course plan. Some programs may offer courses that fulfill major requirements, while others might require you to be particularly strategic with your remaining quarters.
Sub-heading: Build Relationships with Advisors
Northwestern's advising system is your lifeline for double majoring.
Your Primary Advisor: This advisor will help you navigate your primary school's requirements.
Departmental Advisors for Both Majors: As soon as you have a strong interest, reach out to advisors in both departments. They can offer specific insights into course sequencing, potential overlaps, and any unique departmental policies. They can also help you understand which courses are offered when, and if there are any prerequisite chains you need to be mindful of.
Interschool Advising (if applicable): If you're considering majors in two different schools, seek out advisors from both schools' advising offices. Weinberg College, for instance, explicitly recommends consulting with an advisor in the other school, your Weinberg Advisor, and Health Professions Advising if you're doing an interschool major.
Step 5: Be Flexible and Prepared to Adapt
Even with the best planning, things can change.
Course Availability: Sometimes a course you need isn't offered in a particular quarter, or a desired professor isn't teaching. Be ready to adjust your plan.
Academic Interests Evolve: It's possible that as you delve deeper into one major, your passion for the other might wane. It's okay to reassess and decide that a minor, or even just focusing on one major, is a better fit.
Work-Life Balance: Don't burn yourself out. If you find the workload overwhelming, communicate with your advisors. There are always options.
Graduation on Time: While many double majors graduate in four years, be prepared for the possibility of a fifth year, especially for dual degrees or highly demanding inter-school combinations. This is a personal choice based on your goals and resources.
In conclusion, double majoring at Northwestern is far from impossible, and many students thrive with the challenge. It requires dedication, meticulous planning, and strong communication with your academic advisors. It's a journey that can significantly enrich your academic experience and open up diverse career paths.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about double majoring at Northwestern, with quick answers:
How to decide if a double major is right for me at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Reflect on your genuine academic passions, career goals, and your capacity for a challenging workload. Consult with advisors and upperclassmen in your areas of interest.
How to declare a second major at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: The process varies slightly by school, but generally involves consulting with an advisor in the desired department and submitting a declaration form, typically by the end of your sophomore year for at least one major.
How to maximize course overlap between two majors at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Carefully review the course requirements for both majors and identify courses that can fulfill requirements for both. Work closely with advisors to strategize your course selection.
How to handle general education requirements with a double major at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Your primary school's general education requirements will usually apply. Seek courses that can simultaneously fulfill both a major requirement and a distribution requirement. AP/IB credits can also help.
How to manage my time effectively as a double major at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Prioritize strong organizational skills, create a detailed academic calendar, and be realistic about your commitments. Don't hesitate to seek support from academic services.
How to know if I need to do a dual degree instead of a double major at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: If you wish to earn two separate degrees from two different Northwestern schools (e.g., a B.A. from Weinberg and a B.S. from McCormick), you'll pursue a dual degree, which entails fulfilling all requirements for both schools.
How to find out specific double major policies for my school at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Each undergraduate school at Northwestern has its own detailed policies on double majors, dual degrees, and adjunct majors. Consult the official academic advising website for your specific school.
How to complete a double major in less than four years at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: This is highly challenging but possible with a significant number of AP/IB credits, consistent enrollment in 5 courses per quarter, and/or taking summer courses. It requires extremely careful planning.
How to get advising support for a double major at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: Connect with your primary academic advisor, as well as departmental advisors for both majors you are pursuing. If pursuing an inter-school double major, seek advice from both schools' advising offices.
How to decide between a double major and a major with a minor/certificate at Northwestern?
Quick Answer: A minor or certificate might be more appropriate if you want to explore a secondary interest without the full course load of a major, or if you need specific skills for a career path. A double major offers deeper academic immersion in two fields.
