BY: KAREN KERR
For students passionate about music, the decision to pursue a degree in the field is an exciting one. The journey through music school is filled with opportunities for creativity, growth, and artistic fulfillment. However, some students may also have other academic interests or career aspirations beyond music. In these cases, a double major can be a great way to explore multiple passions, develop diverse skills, and expand career opportunities. While double majoring requires dedication and careful planning, many students successfully navigate the challenge and find great value in their multifaceted education.
Inside Music Schools has helped numerous students and their families make this all-important choice, including students who choose to double major. Jaime and Tanisha, for example, have gone on to enjoy incredible success in both music and music-related fields. For those considering this path, understanding what a double major entails and how it can align with both musical and academic aspirations is essential.
What Is a Double Major?
A double major allows students to earn a single bachelor’s degree while completing the coursework for two different majors. These majors may be closely related—such as music and audio engineering—or they may be from entirely different disciplines, like music and business. A double major enables students to deepen their expertise in multiple fields without extending their time in school significantly.
For those looking for an even broader academic experience, some schools offer dual degree programs, which involve earning two separate bachelor’s degrees simultaneously. While a dual degree often requires more time and commitment, it can provide students with even greater flexibility and career options.
Many successful musicians and industry professionals have pursued double majors to enhance their skills and expand their career paths. As IMS Educational Advisor, Bob Mulvey, notes, “The music industry has evolved into a very multi-disciplinary profession beyond performance, writing, and education to new careers in technology, business, and music therapy.” For example, a student might combine a major in performance with a major in education, preparing for a career that includes both performing and teaching. Others may pair music with business or technology, gaining the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving music industry. Still, others may choose two completely different areas of study, such as music performance and psychology.
Reasons to Consider a Double Major
A double major can be a great option for students who want to:
- Pursue Multiple Interests – Explore two passions without having to choose just one.
- Expand Career Opportunities – Open doors to a broader range of industries, especially if the fields complement each other.
- Develop Diverse Skills – Gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability—qualities employers value.
- Enhance Your Resume – Stand out to employers by showcasing dedication and a well-rounded skill set.
- Gain an Interdisciplinary Perspective – Connect ideas across disciplines, fostering innovation and creativity.
While a double major presents challenges, it is certainly achievable with careful planning and commitment. Students who are passionate about multiple subjects and willing to put in the effort often find the experience deeply rewarding, both academically and professionally. “If a student feels confident about time management and their ability to focus, it certainly can be done,” says Amanda Quist, Associate Professor at Western Michigan University, “Some students who pursue this might opt for an extra semester of study to ensure they have time to really process all they are learning.”
Challenges of Double Majoring
Although double majoring may seem like an excellent security blanket or a way to explore multiple interests, it is not for everyone. The decision requires careful consideration to know whether a double major is worth it or right for any student. Some of the challenges students may face as double majors in music school include the following:
- Some schools may “frown upon” double majors, fearing that students will be unable to apply themselves fully to one course of study.
- Transit between different buildings and campuses can cause a time crunch, ultimately leading students to be late for important lectures or exams.
- Scheduling rehearsals and performances around labs and practicums can be difficult, as well.
- Many students may not be able to devote the required amount of time to completing both majors successfully. Between practice, studio time, performances and rehearsals, homework, lessons, and lectures, students may have no time left for basic self-care.
- Can the student reasonably complete a music industry internship on top of other obligations for the second major?
- While a double major can certainly broaden students’ professional horizons, it is unusual for anyone to successfully work full-time as a musician, producer, or songwriter while working full-time as a nurse or engineer.
Choosing the Right School as a Double Major Student
When students make the decision to put in the time and effort it takes to double major, it’s important to remember that this can limit their school options. Schools like Northwestern, the University of Southern California, and New York University and others offer excellent music and academic programs. It’s essential to look at schools that align with the student’s aspirations. Some schools that offer excellent academics may have better opera programs, while others excel in music production.
Although Inside Music Schools cannot tell you whether a double major is worth it for a particular student or family, we can provide you with the expert guidance and advice you need to make the right decision. Reach out to IMS today for professional and proven music school admissions consulting.
Karen Kerr
An accomplished professional with over 28 years of experience in higher education, admissions, and recruitment, Karen has always made her goal finding the best-fit school for student musicians. Most recently, she served as the Director of Admission and Recruitment at the University of Miami Frost School of Music, where she was responsible for recruitment, auditions/interviews, and admissions of all undergraduate and graduate applicants. Prior to joining the Frost School, she was part of the admissions staff at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance where she reviewed applications at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.