Triple Major?

<p>Is it possible to triple major? I would like to earn a bachelor's (if not more) in broadcast journalism, interior design, and education (early childhood and/or music). Would I be better off with earning a certificate or associate's in one or two of these? I know they're a wide selection but I'm really interested in all three. Please help!</p>

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<li>It is possible to triple major, at least in theory. In practice, it’s pretty hard to schedule unless you’re willing to take longer than 4 years to finish your (presumably) single degree (with a triple major), or are insane (and academically capable) enough to take way more courses than normally allowed (I know at least 2 people who did, but they had no life outside their studies). In practice, it’s also difficult to be invested enough in all three subjects to go all the way. Even for double majors, I know plenty of people who switched to major and minor late in the game because they just didn’t have the interest to pursue one of the subject all the way, as it was too much effort they felt was better spent getting deeper in the other field.</li>
<li>Would it be better to earn a certificate or associate’s? I can’t say, but it’s an option. One thing about triple major is that it does look a little indecisive. Do you really want to be a “jack-of-all-trades” (well, of 3 anyway)? Perhaps doing a double major + a minor, or a major + 2 minors may be better suited for your interests. It’s hard to say a priori. If you are really committed, consider how you would have to schedule those different possibilities, to see what is most feasible, and to get at least some courses in all three fields early to help you decide how you want to go further. Perhaps one of these will stand out as your “real” passion once you get involved in the subject, who knows…</li>
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<p>I know for a fact that at least 2 of those majors (broadcast journalism and education) are extremely time-consuming and difficult, so you would be taking on a huge task. Also, the requirements for these 3 majors don’t really have much overlap, so it would probably take you a long time to complete all 3 majors. You usually see people with triple majors getting degrees in related fields in something such as science or English. It’s admirable that you are interested and talented in so many things, but I think it would be wise to cut down on the workload and pick one or two majors while minoring in the other(s) or just finding ways to get experience outside of the classroom (work for the school’s TV station or something).</p>

<p>It also depends on whether the school you attend will allow it, and whether you can afford to delay graduation to complete all requirements.</p>

<p>If you haven’t entered college yet you can begin as undeclared and take some courses in those areas to see what you like. Your interests may change, or you may find you like one as a career option better than the others. Remember that studying it in the classroom is not the same as doing it, so while you might enjoy learning about something, you might not enjoy the job once employed in the field full-time.</p>

<p>Or consider majoring in one, and minoring in others when able. For example, if you want the option of becoming a teacher, you should major in early childhood education; you could always minor in interior design and pursue work in that area later on, but if you don’t major in education you can’t easily pursue teaching jobs without certification. So you have to consider how much education is required to pursue each path, what kind of lifestyle you want, your salary goals, and your personal strengths (are you great with kids but a little weak in designing, and do you think the courses will bring you up to par for being competitive in job pursuits?). </p>

<p>I agree with the “jack of all trades” theory. Yes, you want a well-rounded education, but you also want to be really good at your job so that you are employable. Will triple majoring allow you to devote your time and passions to all three to the point where you master them all? Can your physical and mental stamina keep up? You do not want to know it all but be average - you want to know it all and excel at it if you want to be successful. Which one might require the most dedication to excel? Which comes easily to you?</p>

<p>Consider that early childhood education will have additional requirements beyond classes, such as actual teaching time in local schools, creating lesson plans, etc. Many other majors may require senior projects or internships.</p>

<p>Research carefully and dabble in a little bit of everything, even if it means just buying a book at the store and reading up on it outside of the classroom (it’s much cheaper, anyway). Talk to people working in each of those fields if you can to get a real perspective on working in interior design, or broadcasting. What are the challenges of “making it” in those fields? Are you willing to work that hard for the outcome (salary, typical job stressors, etc.)?</p>

<p>thanks for the help everyone! i think i’m going to double major in general education and broadcast journalism. maybe a few years down the road i will go back and get my associate’s. i really do appreciate you listening and responding! thanks again :)</p>