Second Degrees and Academic Exploration

Academic Exploration: Double Majors and Second Baccalaureate Degrees

At West Liberty University, we encourage students to pursue academic pathways that reflect their passions and career goals. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge through double majors or pursue a second baccalaureate degree to build expertise in a separate field. With the right planning, both options can be enriching, attainable, and impactful.

Double Majors (One Degree, Two Majors)

• Students may complete the requirements for two majors under a single bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.S. or B.A.).
• Students earn one degree, with both majors listed on the transcript.
• Only one diploma is awarded.
• Shared general education and elective courses may allow both majors to be completed within the traditional four-year timeline.
• Double majors may span departments or colleges, but students must meet all major-specific requirements.
• Advising is key—students should consult with academic advisors from both majors early in their academic careers.

  Second Baccalaureate Degree (Two Degrees)

• Students may pursue a second bachelor’s degree, either after completing the first degree or concurrently, with careful planning. This option is ideal for students seeking credentials in distinct academic fields.
• Students must complete a minimum of 30 additional credit hours beyond the first degree.
• All major and general education requirements for the second degree must be met unless previously satisfied.
• Two diplomas are awarded; each degree is separately recorded on the transcript.
• Second degrees may be pursued in areas different from the original major and may require formal readmission or approval if earned after the first degree.

  Note: A second major within the same degree (e.g., a B.S. with majors in Biology and Chemistry) is not considered a second degree.

  Graduate Catalog Entry

  Academic Flexibility: Multiple Concentrations and Second Graduate Degrees

  West Liberty University supports graduate students in shaping a personalized path of advanced study. Whether enhancing your academic depth through multiple concentrations or expanding into a new field with a second graduate degree, our programs are designed to help you reach your professional and intellectual goals.

  Multiple Concentrations (One Degree, Expanded Expertise)

• Some master’s degree programs allow students to pursue more than one concentration within the same degree.
• Students complete shared core requirements and all coursework for each concentration.
• Upon graduation, the degree and all completed concentrations are recorded on the transcript.
• Students earn one degree and one diploma, regardless of the number of concentrations.
• Choosing multiple concentrations can enhance career preparation by providing depth in multiple areas of specialization.

  Second Graduate Degree (Two Distinct Degrees)

• Students may pursue a second master’s degree, either after completing the first or concurrently, to broaden their academic qualifications.
• The second degree must include at least 18 unique credit hours not used toward any other completed graduate degree.
• All academic and graduation requirements for the second program must be met in full.
• Students earn two distinct graduate degrees, with two diplomas awarded and each degree separately recorded on the transcript.
• Coursework overlap may be considered on a case-by-case basis with approval from the graduate program director and dean.

Let Curiosity Lead the Way

At West Liberty University, we celebrate your drive to learn more, do more, and become more. Our flexible academic structures are designed to support your curiosity and ambition, whether that means taking on another major, pursuing two degrees, or diving into multiple graduate concentrations.