Multiple majors becoming more popular

The number of UW students pursuing multiple majors or degrees has risen to 14 percent in the past five years, up from 10 percent, according to a recent report about the progress of UW undergraduates.

The report stated double-degree students at the UW graduate with the highest average grade point (3.44). Double majors have the next highest grade point averages, followed by students with one major.

Double majors at the UW, which are in two departments in the same college, do not require additional credits. Earning a double degree from departments in different colleges requires 45 credits more than the number required for the degree that requires fewer credits. Students earning a double degree are awarded two diplomas.

The motivation to obtain multiple degrees may come from students' desire to boost their resumes for graduate and professional schools, said Paul Lepore, assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

"For many students it is an issue of credentialing for the future," he said.

Sophomore Samir Patel is already majoring in chemical engineering, but said he is considering going for an applied computational and mathematical sciences degree as well.

"I've considered double majoring mainly because it would give me better job prospects, graduate school credentials, and make me look smarter than I am," he said.

Although double degrees require more credits and generally a greater variety of courses, they are more common than double majors, according to the report.

Most graduate schools, including the UW, do not consider how many majors a student has in its admissions criteria.

According to the UW Graduate School's Web site, choosing a relevant single major and having a higher grade point average is considered more important.

"We're in a society in which access to education has never been greater," said Paul Lepore. "Students feel a desire for a deep treatment in [multiple] areas."

Having two or even three majors often means tackling a heavier course load or staying in school for a few extra quarters. But for junior Wendy Lee, balancing two majors is worth the extra work.

"Doubling is hard," said Lee, who is pursuing degrees in both economics and psychology. "[But] I'm doubling for fun and because I'm interested in [both] subjects enough to endure another year of school."