How to Choose the Right Dual Degree Program for International Students

A dual degree allows you to study across two disciplines and graduate with double expertise. A dual degree is a growing choice among international students who want to combine knowledge from different areas and stand out in global job markets.

According to a report by the World Economic Forum, over 75% of future roles will require some level of digital and management skills. That's the reason dual degrees in management and the IT sectors have become one of the top study options for international students planning to work abroad. 

In this article, you'll learn:

• The top dual degree fields dominating global hiring trends
• Key factors to consider before choosing your dual degree program
• The most in-demand dual degree combinations
• Career Outlook for Dual Degree

Dominating Fields in Dual Degree Programs (2025)

Before choosing how, there is what to choose. So let's clear this first. In 2025, the most popular dual degree programs connect business knowledge with modern technology skills. Global companies want professionals who understand both business strategy and technology execution.

Students no longer focus on one subject. They look for programs that help them build both strategic thinking and technical expertise. This trend has made dual degrees combining management and technology some of the most preferred fields worldwide. That's why the Management and IT sectors are in high demand.

Dual degree programs in these fields help students gain two key advantages: analytical thinking from tech modules and leadership skills from business courses. This balance prepares graduates for global job markets where innovation and decision-making go hand in hand.

International Exposure: Many universities now design dual degree programs with built-in international exposure, letting students study in two countries or earn degrees from partner institutions. This adds global credibility to your profile but also broadens your professional network.

Did you know

According to LinkedIn's 2025 Global Skills Report, hybrid professionals with both business and tech skills are 40% more employable across international markets than single-discipline graduates.

Factors to Compare Before Choosing Your Dual Degree

If you plan to choose a dual degree program for your international career path, comparing academic features, work options, and location benefits is important. Below is a table of what to look for before applying to make it easier for you:

This table gives you a clear picture of which destination fits your career and budget best.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing a Dual Degree

Many students rush into dual degree programs without proper planning. When choosing your field, think about how it connects with future job demand. Here are common mistakes that can affect your study and career path:

1.  Choosing programs based only on ranking, not on fit.
2.  Choosing two unrelated specializations
3. Ignoring visa or post-study work rules
4. Not checking credit transfer or course overlap
5. Overlooking tuition and living cost differences between partner universities
6.  Not checking language or admission test requirements.
7. Not researching recognition of the degree in the home or target countries.

Top Dual Degree Combinations (2025-2030)

Dual degree programs that combine management and technology are among the most preferred choices for international students in 2025. These specializations connect leadership, innovation, and digital transformation skills that global employers value the most. 

Option 1: Business Administration + Information Systems

This combination builds a strong foundation in business management while teaching the digital systems that drive modern companies. Students learn to manage teams, design solutions, and make strategic decisions using technology. This suits those aiming for corporate leadership, digital consulting, or operations management careers.

Popular program pairs include:

• BBA in Business Administration + BSc in Information Systems
• BS in Business Information Systems + MBA
• MBA + MS in Information Systems
• MBA + MS in Management Information Systems

Option 2: International Management + Data Analytics

This program is perfect for students who want to understand global markets and critical thinking. It helps you develop analytical skills while learning international business strategy. Graduates often move into roles like business analysts, consultants, or global strategy planners.

Popular programs include:

• BBA in International Business + BSc in Data Analytics
• BS in Data Analytics + MBA in International Business
• MSc in International Management + MSc in Data Analytics
• Master’s in International Business + Master’s in Business Analytics

Option 3: Technology Management Entrepreneurship

Perfect for students who want to combine innovation with business creation. You'll learn how to lead tech projects, manage resources, and launch startups in fast-moving industries. This combination of students is interested in building products, managing digital ventures, or joining innovation labs.

Popular programs include:

• BBA in Technology Management + BSc in Entrepreneurship
• BS in Engineering Management + MBA
• MBA in Technology Management + MS in Entrepreneurship
• MBA in Innovation and Technology + MSc in Entrepreneurship

Option 4: Computer Science/ IT + Business Analytics

This option merges computing with business intelligence. It helps students who want to apply programming and data tools to solve business problems. Careers after this degree include product management, fintech analysis, and system strategy.

Popular programs include:

• BS in Computer Science + BS in Business Analytics
• BSc in Information Technology + MBA
• MS in Computer Science + MS in Business Analytics
• MSc in Computer Science + MBA

Option 5: Project Management + Artificial Intelligence

As industries adopt automation, managers who understand AI are in demand. This combination teaches how to plan, execute, and oversee projects smartly. It's great for those aiming to work in logistics, tech operations, or innovation.

Popular Programs include:

• BBA in Project Management + BSc in Artificial Intelligence
• MBA in Project Management + MS in Artificial Intelligence
• MSc in Project Management + MSc in AI
• Master’s in Project Management + MSc in AI Applications

Option 5: Cybersecurity + Management Information Systems

With data protection now central to every industry, this combination prepares students for leadership in secure digital environments. Students learn network defense, risk management, and policy compliance.

Popular Programs include:

• BSc in Cybersecurity + BBA in Management Information Systems
• BS in Cybersecurity + MBA
• MS in Cybersecurity + MBA in IT Management
• MSc in Information Security + MSc in Management Information Systems
• MS in Cybersecurity Management + MBA in Information Systems

Option 7: Digital Marketing + Information Technology

This combination helps students bridge marketing strategy with technical implementation. You'll study how digital platforms, analytics, and IT systems drive business visibility and growth. This is perfect for careers in marketing technology, brand analytics, and online strategy.

Popular Programs include:

• BBA in Marketing + BSc in Information Technology
• BSc in Digital Media + BBA in IT Management
• BSc in Digital Marketing + MBA in Information Technology Management
• MSc in Digital Marketing + MSc in Information Technology
• MBA in Marketing + MS in Information Technology

Did You Know

According to the World Economic Forum, jobs that blend management and technology are growing faster than any other field, with more than 30% new openings expected by 2030.

Career Outlook for Dual Degree

Reports from LinkedIn and OECD show that students with dual degrees in these fields get about 30% more job offers than those with a single degree. This mix of skills gives you better chances to work in different industries and countries, even:

Top Hiring Sectors:

• IT and Consulting companies
• Finance and Banking
• Online Business and e-commerce
• Data and analytics firms
• Engineering and project-based companies

In-Demand Career Roles

Dual degree students can work in multiple areas, depending on their chosen specialization:

• Business or Data Analyst: You'll study company trends, handle reports, and support business decisions with numbers.

Average Salary: $82,543 to $135,182 per year.

• Product or Project Manager: These roles focus on leading teams, managing timelines, and launching new products or software.

Average Salary: $115,291 to $191,894 per year.

• Technology or IT Consultant: You'll help businesses improve systems and adopt new AI technologies. 

Average Salary: $116,177 to $199,450 per year

• Operations or Strategy Manager: You'll plan business growth, handle supply chains, or improve company processes.

Average Salary: $115,000- $207,000 per year

• Marketing Technology Specialist: You'll learn marketing insights with digital tools and analytics.

Average Salary: $68,883 to $120,966 per year

• Business Development Executive: Focus on expanding company partnerships, finding new markets, and building client relations.

Average Salary: $128,610 to $239,474 per year.

Note: Glassdoor (accessed 2025). Salary ranges reflect average earnings across the US, UK, and EU markets for professionals with postgraduate-level education.

How can I know if a dual degree is right for me?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I want to mix business and technology skills?
• Am I comfortable managing two academic tracks?
• Do I want international exposure and a faster career path?

If yes, a dual degree is the right choice for you.

Read Also: Dual Degree vs. Double Major: Which One Boosts Your Career More?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the return on investment (ROI) for a dual degree abroad?

Dual degree graduates earn 25-40% higher starting salaries than single degree holders. The strong combination of business and tech skills increases your job options, helping you recover your study costs within 2-4 years of working abroad.

Can I switch my specialization during a dual degree?

Yes, you can switch or modify your specialization during the first semester at many universities. However, major changes, like moving from business to engineering, might require extra credits or extend your study period.

Should I take

 the GMAT or GRE to obtain a dual degree abroad?

Firstly, it depends on the program and university. Most business and management-related dual degrees require GMAT or GRE. At the same time, tech-focused programs may accept only GRE or even waive the test requirement if you have strong academic or professional experience.

How long does a master s-level dual degree abroad take?

Most dual master's programs take 1.5 to 2.5 years, depending on your credit transfer and specialization. If the program runs between two universities in different countries, it might be extended by a few months due to internship or thesis work.

Is a dual degree better for career growth than an MBA alone?

In many cases, yes. A dual degree adds a second layer of skills, such as analytics, AI, or IT management, that MBAs alone often lack. This gives graduates an advantage in tech-driven industries and leadership roles.