Can anyone explain? Including credit needed for each? TIA
@maryversity - Yes, I read that link but still not sure if I understand specific requirements and differences correctly. It sounds like 1) both programs require student to meet requirements in each of the majors 2) both require student to get approval of respective colleges 3) a dual degree requires min of 150 credits (or 180 for special ed); and 4) a dual degree requires at least 18 credits that are not required by the other major. But if a student meets requirements 1, he/she would meet requirements 3/4 anyway, right? If so, aren’t they the same? I understand a double major gets one diploma where as a duel gets two.
@EastCoast1 - Meeting 1 does mean that 3 and 4 have been met. 1 just states that the requirements for each major/degree program must be met. 3 and 4 are requirements over and above what 1 says.
3 adds the requirement for an additional 30 credits to graduate with a dual degree (assuming a 120 credit single degree). It does not add any additional credits to graduate with a double major.
4 adds the requirement to have 18 non-overlapping credits to graduate with a dual degree. It places no limitation of the number of overlapping credits used to graduate with a double major.
With careful planning, it may be possible to graduate double major with only 132 or 135 credits. A lot depends on the majors and degrees of interest to you
The real challenge is scheduling. Not all courses are offered every semester. Some are only offered in the Fall, some only in the Spring. Also, some courses have multiple sections (different days and times). Some course only have one section (i.e. only Tuesday and Thursday 10 to 12).
When scheduling multiple required courses across 2 majors or degrees, you may find conflicts. Both courses offered at the same time and no other times. You may also find that courses with sections that work for you fill up before you get to register. There is a priority registration sequence and students with the most credits (juniors/seniors) register first.
At orientation you will only register for Fall 2015 classes, You won’t even be able to see what courses are available for the Spring semester till probably December. Also, keep in mind that the 150/18 requirements are minimums. Specific degress may impose even more requirements.
I have no actual experience with UMD double majors or dual degrees. I am not trying to discourage you, I know that you are eager to plan out your academic future. It’s just that there is no single, simple answer to your question. You have to figure it out as you go along.
Good Luck
@SoofDad - Very helpful. Thank you.