Double Major on Resume

Should You List Double Major on Resume

In many professional contexts, listing a double major on your resume can demonstrate your ability to handle complex tasks, manage time effectively, and gain a broad understanding of multiple disciplines. However, the relevance of this information may vary depending on the job you're applying for, the regional standards, and the industry norms. For instance, in the United States, where many employers value academic achievements, listing a double major can be beneficial. On the other hand, in some international contexts, employers might focus more on practical experience than academic background.

Why to List Double Major on Resume

• Demonstrates versatility and adaptability: Having a double major indicates that you have the ability to juggle multiple subjects, which can be attractive to employers looking for well-rounded candidates.
• Broadens knowledge base: A double major allows you to gain insights into two distinct fields, giving you a unique perspective that could prove valuable in solving complex problems.
• Enhances critical thinking skills: Balancing the demands of two majors can help you develop strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Signals dedication and determination: Completing a double major often requires additional time, effort, and commitment—qualities that many employers value.

Where to List Double Major on Resume

• Education section: This is the most common place to list your academic achievements, including double majors.
• Relevant skills section: If your double major is directly relevant to the job you're applying for, it can be beneficial to mention it under the relevant skills section.
• Cover letter: If your double major isn't immediately apparent from your resume, consider highlighting its relevance in your cover letter.

Examples of How to List Double Major on Resume

Example 1 - Education section

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science, University XYZ, City, Year - Year

In this example, the double major is listed as part of the degree and university information. The order of the majors can be adjusted based on their relevance to the job you're applying for.

Example 2 - Relevant skills section

Relevant Skills:

• Strong understanding of financial markets (Economics major)
• Proficient in political theory and policy analysis (Political Science major)

In this example, the double major is listed under a relevant skills section to emphasize the candidate's versatility and depth of knowledge.

What to Avoid While Listing Double Major on Resume

• Ignoring its relevance: If your double major isn't directly related to the job you're applying for, it may not be necessary or beneficial to include it.
• Excessive detail: There's no need to explain the individual courses taken for each major in your resume; focus on the overall impact of a double major rather than the specific details.
• Incorrect formatting: Make sure to format your double major correctly, using the appropriate punctuation and capitalization (e.g., "Economics and Political Science" instead of "Economics, and Political Science").
• Focusing on less relevant aspects: If your double major isn't directly relevant to the job you're applying for, avoid emphasizing it over other qualifications that are more important or impressive.

How to List Interdisciplinary Majors on Resume

When it comes to listing interdisciplinary majors on a resume, especially in the context of a double major, there are some best practices to follow:

1. Highlight the Primary Major First

Always list your primary major first and the secondary interdisciplinary major second. This helps the recruiter quickly understand your main area of study and then delve into the specifics of your interdisciplinary focus.

• For example: "Double Major in Computer Science (Primary) and Mathematics (Secondary)"

2. Clearly Define Your Interdisciplinary Focus

Make sure to clearly define your interdisciplinary focus within the context of your double major. This will help the recruiter understand how your unique combination of subjects aligns with the job requirements.

• For example: "Computer Science and Mathematics with a focus on Data Analysis and Modeling"

3. Emphasize Relevant Coursework and Projects

Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and experiences that demonstrate how your interdisciplinary studies have prepared you for the job you are applying for.

• For example: "Completed a senior project in Computer Science and Mathematics, developing a predictive model for stock market trends"

4. Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

Always tailor your resume to the specific job description, emphasizing how your interdisciplinary studies make you a strong fit for the role.

• For example: "In pursuit of a role in Financial Analysis, I believe my unique combination of Computer Science and Mathematics skills will enable me to analyze complex financial data effectively"

5. Quantify Your Achievements

Wherever possible, quantify your achievements to give the recruiter a clear understanding of your impact.

• For example: "Achieved a 3.8 GPA in Computer Science and Mathematics, with a focus on Data Analysis and Modeling"

Example 1: Interdisciplinary Majors on Double Major Resume

Consider the following example of a resume for a student with a double major in Business Administration (Primary) and Psychology (Secondary):

• "Double Major in Business Administration (Primary) and Psychology (Secondary)"
• "Business Administration with a focus on Organizational Behavior and Human Resources"
• "Completed a senior project in Business Administration and Psychology, analyzing employee motivation and productivity in a Fortune 500 company"
• "Tailored my resume to a Human Resources Manager position, emphasizing my unique combination of Business Administration and Psychology skills"
• "Achieved a 3.9 GPA in Business Administration and Psychology, with a focus on Organizational Behavior and Human Resources"

Example 2: Interdisciplinary Majors in Double Major Context

Here's another example for a student with a double major in Environmental Science (Primary) and Political Science (Secondary):

• "Double Major in Environmental Science (Primary) and Political Science (Secondary)"
• "Environmental Science with a focus on Climate Change Policy"
• "Completed a senior project in Environmental Science and Political Science, proposing policy recommendations for reducing greenhouse gas emissions"
• "Tailored my resume to a Sustainability Consultant position, emphasizing my unique combination of Environmental Science and Political Science skills"
• "Achieved a 3.8 GPA in Environmental Science and Political Science, with a focus on Climate Change Policy"

How to List Related Majors on Resume

Best Practices for Listing the 'Related Majors' Subcategory

• Highlight Your Double Major: Make it clear that you have a double major by listing both of your majors and separating them with a comma, followed by "and". For example: "Business Administration (Marketing concentration) and Economics".

  Example: If you have a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics, your resume might look like this:

  Education:

  • University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics

• Include Relevant Coursework: If your double major is directly related to the job you're applying for, list some of the most relevant coursework for each major. This can help demonstrate your specialized knowledge and skills. For example: "Relevant coursework includes Databases (CS) and Applied Linear Algebra (Math)".

  Example: If you have a double major in Business Administration (Marketing concentration) and Economics, and the job requires understanding of marketing analytics, your resume might look like this:

  Education:

  • University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing concentration) and Economics
  • Relevant coursework includes Marketing Research Methods, Consumer Behavior, Marketing Analytics (Business Administration), and Economic Modeling (Economics)

• Use the 'Related Majors' Section Wisely: The 'Related Majors' section is optional but can be beneficial if you have additional majors or minors that are closely related to the job you're applying for. However, don't overdo it by listing every minor or irrelevant major.

  Example: If you have a double major in Business Administration (Marketing concentration) and Economics, and a minor in Statistics, but you're applying for a Marketing position, your resume might look like this:

  Education:

  • University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing concentration) and Economics
  • Minor: Statistics
  • Related Majors: Statistics

• Customize for Each Job Application: Tailor your resume to each job application by emphasizing the skills and knowledge that are most relevant to the position. If a job requires more skills from one of your majors, focus on that major in your 'Related Majors' section.

  Example: If you have a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics, and you're applying for a Data Scientist position, you might want to highlight the relevant coursework from both majors but emphasize more on courses related to Data Science:

  Education:

  • University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics
  • Relevant coursework includes Database Systems (CS), Machine Learning (CS), Applied Linear Algebra (Math), and Statistical Modeling (Math)

Example 2: Related Majors in Double Major Context

If you have a double major in Mechanical Engineering (Robotics concentration) and Electrical Engineering, your resume might look like this:

Education:

• University XYZ, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Robotics concentration) and Electrical Engineering
  • Relevant coursework includes Robot Design (ME), Control Systems (EE), Digital Signal Processing (EE), and Power Electronics (EE)
  In this case, the job seeker is emphasizing their expertise in robotics and control systems since those are more relevant to the job they're applying for.

How to List Coursework-focused Majors on Resume

When listing coursework-focused majors on your resume, especially if you're a double major, it's essential to highlight the relevance of each major and how they complement each other in achieving your career goals. Here are some best practices:

• Clearly state your double major: List both majors prominently at the top of your education section. This ensures that recruiters immediately understand your academic background. For example:

  Education

  Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and Mathematics, University of XYZ, City, State (Year)

• Emphasize the relevance of each major: Briefly describe why you chose each major and how they are valuable for the job you're applying for. If applicable, mention specific courses or projects that demonstrate your skills. For example:

  Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and Mathematics, University of XYZ, City, State (Year)

• Pursued a double major to combine my passion for problem-solving with the technological advancements in the industry.

• Completed advanced courses such as Data Structures and Algorithms in Computer Science and Probability Theory in Mathematics.

• Highlight interdisciplinary skills: If your double major has provided you with unique skills or perspectives, make sure to mention these. For example:

  Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and Mathematics, University of XYZ, City, State (Year)

• Developed proficiency in problem-solving, critical thinking, and mathematical modeling.

• Gained a strong foundation in programming languages like Java and Python, as well as software development methodologies.

• Organize your resume for readability: Arrange the information in a clear and concise manner to make it easy for recruiters to understand your academic background. Use bullet points and short paragraphs to improve readability.

Example 1: Coursework-focused Majors on Double Major Resume

Consider the following example for a student who double majored in Computer Science and Psychology with a focus on Human-Computer Interaction:

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Human-Computer Interaction) and Psychology, University of XYZ, City, State (Year)

• Pursued double major to combine my passion for technology with understanding human behavior.
• Completed advanced courses such as User Experience Design, Cognitive Psychology, and Artificial Intelligence.
• Developed skills in prototyping user interfaces using Sketch and Adobe XD.

Example 2: Coursework-focused Majors in Double Major Context

In this example, a student with a double major in Economics and Business Administration focuses on International Finance:

Education

Bachelor of Science in Economics (International Finance) and Business Administration, University of XYZ, City, State (Year)

• Pursued double major to gain a comprehensive understanding of the global financial market.
• Completed advanced courses such as Financial Modeling, International Money and Banking, and Corporate Finance.
• Conducted research on emerging markets and presented findings at regional conferences.

How to List Primary Major and Secondary Major on Resume

• List Both Majors Prominently: Place your double major in a section by itself at the top of the Education section. This draws immediate attention to your impressive academic achievement.

Education

• University Name, Degree (Double Major: Primary Major & Secondary Major), Graduation Year

• Order of Listing: List your primary major first, followed by the secondary major. This order reflects the traditional structure of academia and is generally understood by recruiters.

• University Name, Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Primary Major & Secondary Major, Graduation Year

• Separation of Majors: Use a comma or an ampersand to separate your primary and secondary major. Some prefer the comma as it is more common in formal writing, while others might find the ampersand easier to read due to its concise nature.

• University Name, Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Primary Major, Secondary Major, Graduation Year

• Emphasize Relevant Coursework: Briefly mention any relevant coursework from either major that could be valuable to potential employers within the job description.

• Use Keywords: Include the term "double major" in your resume to draw attention to your unique academic accomplishment.

Skills: Double Major in Computer Science and Mathematics

Example 1: Primary Major and Secondary Major on Double Major Resume

Suppose you are a recent graduate with a double major in Business Administration (Primary Major) and Economics (Secondary Major). Your Education section might look like this:

Education

• University of XYZ, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Double Major: Business Administration & Economics, Graduation Year

Example 2: Primary Major and Secondary Major in Double Major Context

Assume you are a transfer student who completed your associate's degree with a double major in Biology (Primary Major) and Chemistry (Secondary Major). Your Education section might look like this:

Education

• Community College of XYZ, Associate of Science (AS) Degree, Double Major: Biology & Chemistry, Transfer Year
• University of ABC, Bachelor of Science (BS), Major: Biology, Current Year

How to List Major 1 and Major 2 on Resume (for Double Major Candidates)

Listing your double major on a resume can be an effective way to showcase your versatility and depth of knowledge. Here are some best practices to follow:

Best Practice 1: Prioritize Relevance

• Highlight the major that is most relevant to the job you're applying for first, followed by the secondary major. This ensures that the most important information is immediately visible to potential employers.

Example 1: Major 1 and Major 2 on Double Major Resume

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Secondary Major: Mathematics)
  • Relevant Coursework: Algorithms, Data Structures, Operating Systems, Linear Algebra
  In this example, the candidate's degree in Computer Science is listed first because it's more relevant to a tech job. The secondary major, Mathematics, follows as a supporting detail.

Best Practice 2: Use Conjunction or Separator

• Use a conjunction (e.g., "and") or a separator (e.g., "/") to clearly indicate that you're listing two majors. This helps the reader easily understand your academic background.

Example 2: Major 1 and Major 2 in Double Major Context

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts in English / Creative Writing (Minor: Psychology)
  • Relevant Coursework: Literary Theory, Fiction Writing, Poetry, abnormal Psychology
  In this example, the candidate uses a slash to separate their two majors. This is a common practice and makes it easy for readers to understand their academic background.

Best Practice 3: Highlight Relevant Skills

• Mention any skills or areas of expertise that you developed during your studies in both majors. This demonstrates how your diverse education can benefit potential employers.

Example 1 (Continued): Major 1 and Major 2 on Double major Resume

Skills:

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Proficient in programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++

• Understanding of statistical analysis methods

  In this example, the candidate highlights their coding skills and understanding of statistical analysis, showcasing how their double major can be beneficial.

Best Practice 4: Avoid Repetition

• Avoid repeating similar information about the same skills or areas of expertise for each major. Instead, focus on highlighting unique skills or experiences related to each major.

Example 2 (Continued): Major 1 and Major 2 in Double major Context

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to analyze and interpret literature effectively

• Knowledge of creative writing techniques such as character development and plot structure

  In this example, the candidate focuses on unique skills like their ability to analyze literature and knowledge of creative writing techniques. This demonstrates the value they could bring to a potential employer with their double major background.