Introduction
Adding a double major to your resume is a great way to highlight your academic achievements and show employers your ability to succeed in different fields. In today’s competitive job market, having diverse skills and knowledge can make you stand out. This guide will explain how to effectively list your double major on your resume with tips, examples, and answers to common questions.
Why List a Double Major?
Demonstrating Dedication and Skills
A double major shows employers that you’re hardworking, curious, and capable of managing your time well. Successfully completing two fields of study proves you can handle challenges and adapt to new situations.
Highlighting Versatility
A double major emphasizes your ability to think from different perspectives. Whether you’re applying for a specialized position or one that values broad knowledge, listing a double major can give you an edge over other candidates.
When Should You Include a Double Major?
Relevant to the Job
If both majors match the job requirements, include them prominently. For example, a double major in Computer Science and Business Administration is highly relevant to tech management roles.
When Relevance Is Limited
If your majors are not directly related to the job, focus on the transferable skills you gained, like critical thinking, problem-solving, or teamwork.
Where Should You List a Double Major?
Education Section
The education section is the most logical place to include your double major. Use a clear format to list your degree, school, and graduation date, like this:
Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science
Example University, May 2023
Other Sections for Special Cases
If you use a functional or skills-based resume, mention your double major briefly in the qualifications summary or skills section to highlight its relevance.
Formatting Your Double Major
Traditional Resume Example
Keep your formatting clean and professional:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology
Example University, May 2023
ATS-Friendly Example
For resumes designed to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), avoid complex designs:
Bachelor of Science | Computer Science and Mathematics | Example University | May 2020
Tips to Showcase Your Double Major
Use Job-Specific Keywords
Tailor your resume for each application by including keywords from the job description related to your majors. This will make your resume stand out to both hiring managers and ATS filters.
Highlight Achievements
Mention internships, projects, or leadership roles that relate to your double major. For example, if you studied Marketing and Psychology, you could highlight an internship where you analyzed consumer behavior.
Mistakes to Avoid
Misrepresenting Your Credentials
Always be truthful. Don’t imply you have two separate degrees unless you actually earned them.
Including Too Many Details
Avoid cluttering your resume with excessive academic information. Focus on what’s most relevant to the job.
Examples of Listing a Double Major
Entry-Level Resume
Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Political Science
State University, May 2022
Honors: Dean’s List (4 semesters)
Professional Resume
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Mathematics
Tech University, May 2020
Relevant Coursework: Algorithms, Statistical Modeling
Double Major in a Cover Letter
Linking to Career Goals
Use your cover letter to explain how your double major connects to the role. For instance, “My background in Psychology and Marketing helps me create strategies that resonate with diverse audiences.”
Showcasing Value
Highlight specific projects or experiences that integrate knowledge from both fields, such as using data analysis from one major to support creative solutions from the other.
Adapting for Different Industries
STEM Fields
Focus on technical skills, research, and projects.
Creative Roles
Emphasize creativity, communication, and collaboration.
Business Roles
Highlight leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
Minors and Certifications
If you have minors or certifications that complement your double major, include them. For example:
Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Statistics
Minor: Data Analytics
Addressing a Double Major in Job Interviews
Discuss Academic Challenges
Talk about how managing two majors improved your ability to multitask and solve problems.
Show Cross-Disciplinary Skills
Share examples of how you combined knowledge from both majors to complete successful projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I List a Double Major with One Degree Title?
List both majors under a single degree title:
Bachelor of Arts in History and English
What If My Double Major Isn’t Relevant?
Focus on transferable skills and achievements that relate to the role.
Can I Highlight One Major More?
Yes, you can emphasize the more relevant major while still mentioning both.
What If I Haven’t Graduated Yet?
List your expected graduation date:
Bachelor of Science in Physics and Chemistry
Expected Graduation: May 2025
How Should I List Interdisciplinary Studies?
Explain the interdisciplinary nature to highlight its relevance to the role.
Are There Differences for International Resumes?
Adapt your formatting to match local resume standards.
Conclusion
Listing a double major on your resume can help you stand out in the job market. Use clear formatting, focus on relevance, and tailor your resume to each application. By showcasing your unique skills and achievements, you’ll make a strong impression on potential employers.
