Dual Degree Programs in India

Guidelines for Pursuing Two Academic Programs Simultaneously in India

With the increasing transformation of careers into interdisciplinary ones, students nowadays are often looking for means to widen their expertise and have a stronger professional edge. A lot of industries are now willing to accept graduates who can mix skills from different areas—for example, technology and management, economics and data science, or design and psychology—and this has been the main reason the behind the rising popularity of educational routes that combine more than one field of study.

This extensive guide examines dual degree programs thoroughly: their nature, differences from double majors and joint degrees, operation in India, decision-making and eligibility, as well as the best programs both locally and globally. Besides that, it gives an overview of the recent regulatory changes that make it difficult to take two programs at the same time in India.

If you want to shorten time, broaden your skill set, or increase your career possibilities, this guide will be of great help in making a decision whether a dual degree is the way to go.

Read Also: UGC Guidelines for Pursuing Two Academic Programs Simultaneously

What is a Dual Degree?

A dual degree program (also called as an integrated double major or combined degree) is an academic path of completing the requirements for two different degrees and therefore, receiving two separate certificates. The primary formats are: (a) two bachelor's degree (e.g., BA + BSc), (b) a bachelor's and a master's is an integrated track (e.g., B.Tech + M.Tech in five years), (c) two master's or professional degrees combined in an accelerated structure. Usually, the program is designed in a way that the shared coursework is minimized, and the total time is shorter than when the degrees are pursued separately.

What is a Double Major?

Double major indicates that a person meets the course requirements for two different majors but is given one degree certificate (for example, one BA with majors in History and Political Science). In most cases, a double major need a thoughtful planning but the time of college is not extended significantly because the majority of general education or elective credits are common.

What's the Difference Between Dual Degree Programs and Double Major Courses?

The important differences between a dual degree and double major has been explained in below points:

• Credential: Dual degree → two separate degrees; Double major → one degree with two majors.
• Durations and credits: Dual degrees generally require more credits and often take longer (extra semesters) than a double major.
• Administrative complexity: Dual degrees sometimes mean distinct enrollments, fees, and graduation filings; whereas double majors remain within a single degree program's structure.
• Mobility & recognition: Two degrees (dual) can be helpful if the fields are professionally regulated or when applying internationally; a double major shows breadth but is a single qualification.

What's the Difference Between a Joint Degree and a Dual Degree?

A joint degree is usually a single qualification conceived and granted jointly by two (or more) institutions or faculties – this means you have one certificate with the two partners' logos. A dual degree leads to two different certificates, one each from the two participating institutions or each faculties.

Joint programs indicate a single, integrated-curriculum credential; dual programs indicate two separate awards. For instance, Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters lead to one joint diploma; the majority of university twinning arrangements lead to two diplomas.

How Do Dual-Degree Programs Work?

Typical Structures of dual-degree programs include:

• Integrated (single-institution) model: The university designs a single program that sequences undergraduate and postgraduate requirements (e.g., B.Tech + M.Tech over five years). You are enrolled once and, after completing requirements, awarded both degrees. Many IITs follow this model where the last year(s) are at master's level.
• Twinning / exchange (multi-institution) model: You study at Institution A for part of the program and at Institution B for the remainder; both institutions award diplomas at the end. This is common for international dual-degree arrangements.
• Concurrent enrolment model (UGC rules): Students may be allowed to enroll simultaneously in two separate programs—subject to institutional and regulatory rules (see the UGC guidelines below)—e.g., one full-time regular degree and another online/Open and Distance Learning (ODL) program, or full-time programs if schedules don't clash. 

Most programs specify credit, residency, thesis/internship, and exam rules. Some allow exit with only one degree if requirements for the second are not met; others require the full sequence to receive both.

Recent Regulatory Context in India - Key Update

In 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) updated Guidelines for Pursuing Two Academic Programs Simultaneously, clarifying that students may, under specified conditions, pursue two programs at the same time—for example, one full-time and one online/ODL program, or two full-time programs provided class timings do not clash. The guidelines aim to give learners flexibility aligned with NEP 2020 but impose recognition and scheduling safeguards; institutions must implement local rules and ensure recognition for joint/foreign collaborative programs. Several universities in 2025-2026 began updating policies to reflect this change. If you plan to enroll in two programs, very each program's recognition and approvals carefully.

UGC Guidelines on Dual Degrees

Since 2022, UGC has permitted a student to simultaneously carry out two academic programs in the following ways:

• Two fully (physical) programs, if the class timings of the two do not overlap, or
• A combination of one full-time physical program and another ODL/online program, or
• Two ODL/online programs at the same time.
• The programs (degrees or diplomas) have to be with institutions recognized by UGC / statutory councils.
• The rules are not applicable to PhD programs - as per this regulation, a simultaneous PhD + other degree is not allowed.

Pros of Dual Degree Programs

• Two recognized degrees: Clear, separate credentials that can provide opportunities for distinct career paths.
• Interdisciplinary strengths: Combines complementary skills (e.g., engineering + management, data science + social science).
• Time-and cost-efficiency (often): Integrated tracks can be shorter than doing degrees separately. 
• Competitive edge: Employers and graduate programs often value demonstrated breadth plus depth.
• International mobility: Twinning duals provide global exposure and two recognitions.

Read Also: How International Dual Degree Open Doors to Global Careers

Cons of Dual Degree Programs

• Higher workload & intensity: More courses, faster pace, and overlapping deadlines.
• Longer duration or higher cost (sometimes): Some duals add semesters or extra fees.
• Less curricular flexibility: Integrated sequences can limit elective freedom.
• Administrative and recognition risk: Join/foreign collaborations must be properly approved; otherwise degrees may not be recognised. Verify UGC approvals.

How do I Choose a Dual Degree Programs?

Consider these practical checkpoints while choosing a dual degree program:

• Career goals: Whether two formal degrees materially help your target job/sector? (e.g., law + business for corporate counsel; engineering + M.Tech for R&D).
• Curriculum fit & overlap: Look for programs where the coursework reduces redundancy and makes the total workload feasible.
• Time/cost trade-off: Compare total semesters, tuition, and living costs versus doing degrees sequentially.
• Institutional reputation & recognition: Prefer UGC/Statutory Council-recognized programs and approved foreign partners.
• Support systems: Advising, mental health resources, and flexible scheduling matter when managing two programs.
• Exit paths: Check if the program allows an early exit with one degree and what that degree will say.

How do You Get Into a Dual Degree Program?

Admission routes vary:

• Direct entry at application: Some universities admit students directly to integrated dual-degree tracks from the first year (B.Tech + M.Tech duals at IITs).
• Internal transfer / merit after year 1–2: Other institutions allow students to apply for the dual degree after completing a designated number of semesters.
• Separate application for each partner: For twinning programs, you may need to satisfy admission criteria for both institutions and sometimes complete mobility tests or interviews.
• Entrance exams & interviews: Competitive dual tracks may use national/state entrance tests, department-level screens, and GPA thresholds. Read the program brochure carefully.

Dual Degree: Best Programs and Top Universities in India

The UGC guidelines and NEP 2020 have motivated India to widen the scope of dual-degree programs available. As a result, premier institutions are now providing integrated courses covering engineering, management, law, social science, and design. Find below the popular dual-degree programs and top universities offering these courses.

1. B.Tech + M.Tech Dual Degree 

Top Institutions:

• IIT Bombay
• IIT Delhi
• IIT Madras
• IIT Kanpur
• IIT Kharagpur
• IIT Roorkee
• IIT Guwahati
• NITs (selected campuses)

2. B.Tech + MBA (Integrated Technology + Management)

Top Institutions:

• IIT Bombay – IDDDP (B.Tech/BS + MBA)
• IIT Kharagpur – B.Tech + MBA option (VGoSM)
• IIT Madras – Engineering + Management dual degree track (limited disciplines)

3. Integrated M.Sc Programs (B.Sc + M.Sc / BS + MS)

Top Institutions:

• Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru – BS Research + MS (research pathway)
• IISERs (All campuses) – 5-year  BS-MS dual degree 
• BITS Pilani – Integrated MSc + BE Dual Degree 

4. BA + MA (Integrated Humanities/Social Sciences)

Top Institutions:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)
• University of Hyderabad

5. Integrated Law Programs – BA LL.B / BBA LL.B. / B.Sc LL.B

Top Institutions:

• National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru
• NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad
• NLU Delhi, Bengaluru, Jodhpur, Bhopal
• Symbiosis Law School

6. IIM Indore – Integrated Program in Management (IPM)

• IIM Indore: BA (Foundations of Management) + MBA (5 Years)

7. IIM Rohtak – 5-Year Integrated Program in Management

• IIM Rohtak: BBA + MBA Dual Degree

8. IIIT Hyderabad – B.Tech + MS (By Research)

• IIIT Hyderabad – Dual Degree Program in CSE/ECE/Computational Linguistics

9. Integrated Design Degrees 

• IIT Bombay – IDC School of Design: B.Des + M.Des (Dual Degree)

10. B.Pharm + M.Pharm Integrated Degrees

• BITS Pilani – Integrated M.Pharm
• Jamia Hamdard University
• Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) Mumbai

11. BCA + MCA Integrated Degree (5 Years)

• Christ University, Bengaluru
• VIT Vellore
• SRM Institute of Science & Technology

12. B.S + M.S Dual Degrees

• IIT Kanpur (offers BS-MS duals across sciences, economics, statistics, and engineering sciences)
• IIT Madras (Interdisciplinary Dual Degree)
• IIT Kharagpur (BS-MS / BS-MBA options via switch-over system)

Is a Dual Degree Right For You? 

• Advantages (when chosen well): stronger credential signaling; interdisciplinary skillset; potential time and cost savings vs. sequential degrees; international exposure for twinning programs.
• Disadvantages: workload and stress; potential reduced depth if the program is poorly designed; recognition/admin pitfalls with foreign/unapproved collaborations.

If your career requires two formal credentials or you're certain the combo will multiply opportunities (for example, strong technical skills + business/management credential),  a dual degree can be transformative. If you want breadth without extra certification needs, a double major or minor might be better.

Read Also: How to Choose the Right Dual Degree Program for International Students

Things to Consider when Choosing the Best Dual Degree Combination

• Complementarity: Pair the fields that amplify each other (e.g., Computer Science + Management + Economics + Data Science, Biotechnology + Business).
• Market demand: Research hiring patterns for your target region/industries.
• Workload & feasibility: If one of your degrees is professional (law, medicine), check rules about concurrent enrollment and licensing.
• Mobility & location: For international twinning, consider visas, cost of living, and internship opportunities aboard.
• Alumni outcomes: Ask for placement records and alumni career paths.

 Tips for Choosing Between Dual Degree vs Double Major

1. Define the credential you need: Do employers or licensing bodies except a second degree, or will proficiency and coursework suffice?

2. Assess time/cost: If getting the second degree extends study by only a small margin due to curricular overlap, dual may be worth it.

3. Consider flexibility: Double majors can be more flexible; dual degrees often commit you to a stricter plan.

4. Check recognition & approvals: This is particularly crucial for joint/foreign – verify UGC and statutory approvals.

5. Try modular alternatives: Micro credentials, online master's, or part-time PG programs may achieve aims with less intensity if the dual route is impractical.

Conclusion

Dual Degrees are most effective when they are deliberately chosen rather than being an impulsive decision. Essentially, they should be one of the ways that directly help you achieve your career goal—by bridging a skill gap, fulfilling a professional requirement, or having a unique combination of disciplines. Although with the updated guidelines of UGC, students in India have more viable options to pursue two programs simultaneously, it is still necessary to check the approvals, modes of delivery, and whether the timetable is compatible. If you are disciplined, genuinely interested in two fields and are willing to take on a heavier workload, then a dual degree can be a great way to accelerate your development. However, if you are someone who likes flexibility, then the alternatives of double majors, minors, or sequential postgraduate study may be more appropriate for you.