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 may broaden their academic experience by completing a double major or earning a second baccalaureate degree in a different 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.
• General education and elective courses may be shared across both majors.
• Double majors may be in different departments or colleges. .
• 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.

  Multiple Concentrations (One Degree, Expanded Expertise)

• Some 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.