If your sights are set on filling your wall with college diplomas, then you might think about the time-saving option of earning an MBA dual degree.
In a joint program, you can earn a Master of Business Administration while also working toward another graduate degree.
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If you’re willing to put in the work, you could come out on the other side with two masters degrees to your name and a set of specialized skills to catch the eyes of potential employers.
Common MBA Dual Degree Programs
With MBA dual-degree programs, you can pursue two graduate degrees at the same time. You can pair a business degree with another field of study to set yourself apart as a knowledgeable, experienced candidate for various roles. Depending on the university, MBA dual degrees can be completed online or in-person.
Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- MBA / Master’s in Business Analytics
- MBA / Master’s in Engineering
- MBA / Master of Healthcare Administration
- MBA / Master’s in Information Technology
- MBA / Master’s in International Relations
- MBA / Law
- MBA / Medicine
- MBA / Master of Science in Nursing
- MBA / Master of Public Health
- MBA / Master of Public Policy
You may want to explore your options to decide which program is right for you.
MBA/MS in Business Analytics Dual Degree
If your passion involves using data in the business world, then you may want to earn a joint Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Business Analytics.
Common topics for this dual program include data mining, big data, programming, and data modeling. You may also study accounting, marketing, and strategic management. Through electives or a concentration, you might be able to focus on a sector like logistics or healthcare.
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While many leadership roles could benefit from the expertise you can gain in this program, your developed skill sets may be particularly suited for jobs in operations or management analytics.
MBA/MEng Dual Degree
If you have not only a mind for business but also a knack for technical topics, then a Master of Business paired with a Master of Engineering could be a strategic choice for your career development.
Multiple branches of engineering may be suitable for this program, and the curriculum will depend on which you choose. Courses not specific to a particular branch of engineering may cover topics like project management, business operations, and research and development leadership.
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Some professionals with this combination of degrees work as program or project managers. They may also hold roles in operations or marketing.
MBA/MHA Dual Degree
Business leadership is critical for the success of healthcare institutions. With a dual program for a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Healthcare Administration, you could be uniquely suited for top roles in health-focused organizations.
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For these degrees, you would study management skills and economic considerations for the healthcare industry. Other courses might cover delivery and reimbursement systems used in the US. There may also be classes that focus on specific sectors of the health field, such as geriatrics or behavioral health. Graduates of these programs often work as hospital directors, medical startup CEOs, or health insurance executives.
MBA/MS in Information Technology Management Dual Degree
Information technology plays a critical role in today’s businesses. Leaders who understand both IT-department specifics and broader business operations are in high demand.
You can prepare for those positions by earning a Master of Business Administration as well as a Master of Science in Information Technology Management. Your business classes can address marketing, finance, and operations. The IT classes may cover information security, cloud computing, and data analysis.
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Professionals with this degree combination could end up in C-suite roles like chief information officer or chief technology officer. Graduates also work in project management, software development, and network architecture.
MBA/MA in International Studies Dual Degree
Those with an eye on global business may want to pursue this joint degree. During the program, you could earn a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in International Studies. Topics studied in this program can include economics, comparative politics, trade regulations, and cross-cultural communication. Foreign language studies are usually part of this type of program as well.
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You might select a concentration that focuses on a particular area of the world, and there may even be opportunities for international travel. After graduation, you could pursue work stateside or overseas for a company with a worldwide presence.
JD/MBA Dual Degree
Law and business are often closely related. If you’re interested in the interplay between these two fields, then you may want to consider earning a Juris Doctor paired with a Master of Business Administration.
You would take classes from the business school and the law school. Example topics include corporate law, ethics in business, contract law, and federal employment regulations. There may be an internship in law or business as well.
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After graduating from this program, you may be eligible to take your state’s bar exam. A number of graduates end up managing a law firm, working in the legal department of a corporation, or starting their own business.
MD/MBA Dual Degree
Business and medicine may seem like very different fields, but some healthcare leadership careers require expertise in both areas.
If you want to save time as you study these two distinct fields, then you might consider earning your Doctor of Medicine and your Master of Business Administration through a 5 year joint program. The courses will likely cover marketing, economics, epidemiology, biochemistry, and anatomy. You might be required to complete a business internship as well as clinical rotations.
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Most graduates qualify for a medical residency. They may eventually work in clinical practice, healthcare administration, biotechnology research, or pharmaceuticals.
MSN/MBA Dual Degree
Nurses rely on the leadership of others in their field. To become a well-rounded nursing leader, you might consider earning both a Master of Science in Nursing and a Master of Business Administration.
The two programs may offer complementary concentrations, such as a nursing leadership emphasis for the MSN and a healthcare administration specialization for the MBA. Your MSN and MBA dual degree curriculum is likely to cover informatics, financial management, public health, healthcare law, and organizational management.
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Some people who earn these degrees become chief nursing officers. Others work in the areas of patient services or health policy. Some are even entrepreneurs and start their own healthcare companies.
MBA/MPH Dual Degree
Visionary leadership can have a positive effect on people’s health. In a Master of Business Administration and Master of Public Health dual program, you can learn the keys to success in public health policy or administration.
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This on-campus or online MPH and MBA dual degree program will typically cover topics like finance, marketing, health law, and crisis management. Concentration areas for the MPH could include epidemiology or global health. With this combination of degrees, some professionals are suitable candidates to work as the head of a public health agency. Others work as consultants. For example, they might advise healthcare organizations on ways to improve patient care.
MBA/MPP Dual Degree
Whether you want to work in the public or private sector, you may find that these two areas frequently overlap.
For the business skills that you may need in a public role or the regulation know-how that’s essential for private industry, you may consider getting both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Public Policy. The topics covered in these programs often include business ethics, economics, program leadership, and organizational structure.
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Graduates commonly hold jobs that bridge the gap between public affairs and private enterprise. They may work as policy analysts or consultants. Some hold leadership roles in nongovernmental organizations (NGOs).
Business Administration Careers and Salaries
Top-level degrees in business often lead to management and executive roles. These positions are available in a wide variety of companies, including corporations, small businesses, startups, and nonprofits.
Your dual degree can influence the type of management role that’s best for you. For example, someone with an MBA and an MEng may qualify to be an engineering manager. A professional who pairs an MSN with an MBA may end up working as a medical services manager.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in management pay a median annual salary of $102,450.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Chief Executives | $179,520 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $159,010 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $152,350 |
| Marketing Managers | $135,030 |
| Financial Managers | $131,710 |
| Sales Managers | $127,490 |
| Human Resources Managers | $126,230 |
| Training and Development Managers | $120,130 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $101,340 |
| General and Operations Managers | $97,970 |
Dual graduate degree programs can also help prepare you to work as a consultant or an analyst who offers evaluation services for various companies. For example, some graduates analyze organizations’ managerial or financial practices.
MBA graduates who also complete professional programs may qualify for jobs that require licensure. Career examples include lawyer, medical doctor, or registered nurse.
Dual MBA Programs Advantages and Disadvantages
Are you intrigued by the idea of in-person or online dual MBA programs? This approach to graduate studies might be right for you, but it’s strategic to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages before you commit.
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Before signing up for a dual program, it’s beneficial to know exactly why you want to earn two degrees and how their combination can help you achieve your career goals.
Joint MBA Degree Admissions Requirements
Getting into a dual MBA program may actually involve applying to two separate departments in a school. The admissions process could require submitting materials like the ones below:
- GRE or GMAT scores (not required at all schools)
- Personal essays
- Reference letters from professors or work supervisors
- Resume
- Transcripts from your bachelor’s degree and other college studies
Some colleges have you submit applications to both programs at the same time. Others require you to submit a second application after enrolling in the first program.
Accreditation for Joint MBA Programs
Having two graduate degrees is a prestigious accomplishment, but it’s beneficial to earn your degrees from regionally accredited schools.
Regional accreditation is a distinction that’s granted to colleges that meet commonly accepted standards for higher education. Enrolling at an accredited school can be a condition for qualifying for government financial aid. In addition, universities and employers look at regional accreditation favorably.
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An accredited degree could also impact your next step, whether you goal is to pursue a doctorate, apply for licensure, or get a job in your field. If your dual program is hosted by two separate colleges, it’s strategic to make sure that each holds regional accreditation.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
When you enroll in MS MBA dual degree programs, you’ll be paying for two sets of classes instead of one. Financial assistance programs can be a help to students who qualify. You might qualify for government loans or grants through state or federal programs. Most students begin the government student aid process by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
In addition, one or both of your college departments may offer scholarship opportunities. Outside organizations, such as professional industry associations, might provide scholarships or fellowships, too. Some employers even have programs in place to help cover their workers’ schooling costs.
What Is a Dual MBA Program?
A dual MBA program is an arrangement in which you earn 2 graduate degrees at the same time. One of the degrees is a Master of Business Administration (MBA). The other may be a master’s degree or a professional program.
The core courses for one program may count as electives for the other program. As a result, it can take less time to earn dual degrees than it would to complete 2 separate graduate programs. The business program and the other field of study often complement each other, enhancing your suitability for specialized roles in business or other disciplines.
What Can You Do with a Dual MBA Degree?
Having a graduate degree in business and another field could lead to high-level leadership opportunities in niche fields.
Your expertise could qualify you for management or executive positions that require specialized knowledge. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for management occupations is $102,450 each year. Potential job titles in the business sector include chief executive officer, management analyst, information systems manager, and sales manager.
Of course, your role is likely to depend on what you choose for your second degree as well as any concentrations or professional licenses you pursue.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Dual Degree MBA?
The shortest joint degree MBA programs usually last about 2 years. To finish within that timeframe, you may need to enroll in college full-time, take classes during the summer, and select programs without thesis requirements.
Many dual MBA programs take closer to 3 years. MBA degrees paired with professional programs generally take even more time. For example, earning an MD with an MBA may require 5 years of study plus a medical residency.
What’s the Difference Between an EMBA vs. MBA?
As you explore schools that offer MBA degrees, you may come across the option of earning an executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA). Here’s how it compares to a standard MBA.
| MBA | EMBA |
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In either program, you’ll study common business topics like marketing and finance.
Is an MBA Dual Degree Worth It
Yes, an MBA dual degree is worth it for many professionals. Graduate degrees equip students with in-demand skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in management are projected to grow at an 8% rate over the next ten years. A business degree may position you to claim one of those roles.
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Plus, a dual degree could set you apart as an especially well-prepared candidate. Your unique blend of knowledge may stand out on a resume and give you a competitive edge in job searches.
Universities Offering Online Dual MBA Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University allows those studying to receive a Master of Business Administration to pursue a dual degree. Options are a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering or a Master of Science in Engineering with an emphasis on Electrical Engineering. Both programs require the completion of 56 credit hours to graduate, and classes are 7.5 weeks long. Applicants must submit 2 letters of reference when applying.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Benedictine University offers a variety of online Master of Business Administration dual degree programs. Students may pair their MBA with a Master of Public Health, a Master of Science in Nursing, or a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior. Students need 23 to 26 credit hours to graduate. Applications may be submitted through the school’s website.
Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
California University of Pennsylvania offers two online Master of Business Administration dual degree programs. Students may pair their MBA with a Master of Science in Nursing or a Master of Nursing Administration and Leadership. Both programs can typically be completed in 2.5 years. Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be eligible.
California University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
John Hopkins University offers 12 different Master of Business Administration dual degree programs. Options include earning an MBA along with a Master of Arts in International Relations, a Master of Arts in Government, or a Juris Doctorate. Those interested in one of the programs may apply online through the school’s website.
Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Northeastern University offers an online dual degree program for those interested in receiving an online Master of Science in Finance and a Master of Business Administration. Students must complete an additional four courses for the MBA curriculum to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit 2 letters of recommendation and a personal statement.
Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Trident University International offers a dual degree program for those interested in a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Health Administration. To graduate, students must complete 64 credit hours. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and GRE, GMAT, or MAT test scores.
Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Arizona offers a dual degree program for those interested in a Master of Business Administration. Students have 14 degree options to pursue along with their MBA. Options include a Master’s in Marketing, a Master of Public Health, or a Master of Science in Environmental Science. Applicants must submit an online application. Admission requirements vary per dual degree program.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Michigan—Dearborn offers two dual degree programs for those interested in a Master of Business Administration. Students may pair their MBA with a Master of Science in Finance or a Master of Science in Engineering in Industrial and Systems Engineering. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
The University of Michigan – Dearborn is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill offers seven different dual degree programs with the Master of Business Administration. Options include pairing an MBA with a Juris Doctorate, a Doctor of Medicine, or a Master of Science in Public Health. The dual degree programs typically take 3 to 5 years to complete. Applicants must submit official transcripts, test scores, and references and complete an admissions interview.
UNC – Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Widener University offers dual degree programs for a Master of Business Administration. Students may pair their MBA with a Doctor of Psychology, a Master of Science in Engineering, a Master of Jurisprudence, or a Juris Doctorate. Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation and GMAT or GRE test scores when applying.
Widener University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Getting Your MBA Dual Degree Online
A joint MBA degree program gives you the opportunity to graduate with two impressive degrees. Listing both of them on your resume may help set you apart as a top candidate for high-level or specialized leadership roles.
For convenience and flexibility, many accredited colleges also offer respected, reputable dual masters degree programs online. You can start looking at accredited business degrees online today to find the dual MBA program that satisfies your interests and will contribute to your career ambitions.
