Second Degree and Double Major
| Applies to: | Original Policy Date: | Date of Last Review: | Approved by: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Students | April 2, 2025 | April 2, 2025 | Dr. John Z. Kiss, Provost and Senior VP for Academic Affairs |
Policy Owner: Office of the Registrar
Policy Purpose
This policy establishes guidelines and requirements for undergraduate students seeking to earn a second degree (two diplomas) or double major at Florida Tech.
Policy Scope
This policy applies to all undergraduate students at Florida Tech who wish to pursue either a second bachelor's degree or a double major, regardless of location or modality.
Policy Statement
Florida Tech recognizes that students may wish to pursue multiple academic disciplines during their undergraduate studies. Therefore, students may elect to earn a second degree or double major at the bachelor level. The University provides two options for such academic pursuits: a second degree or a double major.
Definitions
Second Degree: Two separate bachelor's degrees resulting in two diplomas, which may be either different degree types (B.A. and B.S.) or the same degree type (two B.S. or two B.A. degrees) awarded at Florida Tech, as recorded on the student’s transcript. This definition applies equally whether awarded concurrent with or after the first degree.
Double Major: A single bachelor's degree with completion of two major programs of study, resulting in one diploma that lists both majors. Both majors must be within the same degree classification (e.g., B.S.). A student may earn a second major to be listed on the transcript concurrent to the completion of their first major.
Procedures/Guidelines
Requirements for Second Degree
A second degree results in two diplomas (e.g., a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or two B.S. or two B.A. degrees).
To earn a second degree, the student must
- fulfill at least 30 credit hours of additional Florida Tech coursework beyond the requirements of a single degree in the major requiring the higher number of credits, and
- complete all program requirements for each of the separate bachelor's degrees.
The second degree may be earned concurrently with the first degree or at different times.
Requirements for Double Major
A double major is awarded as one degree with one diploma that may list both majors. To earn a double major, the student must fulfill all program requirements for both majors.
Both majors must be within a single classification of bachelor's degree (e.g., both must be B.S. programs).
Compliance Reference
SACSCOC Standard 9.2 – Program Length
Responsibilities
Students are responsible for
- consulting with academic advisors in both program areas to plan coursework appropriately,
- submitting all required forms to the Office of the Registrar by designated deadlines, and
- ensuring completion of all requirements for both programs.
Academic Units and Advisors are responsible for
- providing guidance to students regarding requirements for second degrees or double majors, and
- assisting students in developing academic plans to meet all requirements.
Office of the Registrar is responsible for
- processing applications for second degrees and double majors,
- verifying completion of requirements for graduation, and
- issuing appropriate diplomas.
Office of the Provost is responsible for
- overseeing the implementation of and compliance with this policy, and
- reviewing and approving any exceptions or revisions to this policy.