5 Smart Ways To Pursue Concurrent Graduate Degrees Today

What Are Concurrent Graduate Degrees?

Concurrent graduate degrees represent an educational pathway where students enroll in two graduate programs simultaneously at the same institution. Unlike sequential degree programs where one degree must be completed before starting another, concurrent programs allow for overlapping coursework and shared credits between programs.

These programs typically come in common combinations such as JD/MBA (law and business), MD/MPH (medicine and public health), or MBA/MA (business and specialized disciplines). The structure usually allows students to complete both degrees in less time—often 3-4 years instead of 5-6 years if pursued separately—by recognizing complementary coursework and eliminating redundancies in curriculum requirements.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for concurrent graduate degrees generally requires separate applications to each program of interest. Most universities require candidates to meet the admission criteria for both programs independently, which may include standardized tests like the GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT depending on the specific programs.

Timing is crucial in this process. Some institutions allow simultaneous applications, while others require students to apply to one program first, establish good academic standing, and then apply to the second program. Prospective students should carefully review application deadlines, as they often vary between graduate schools even within the same university.

Strong candidates typically demonstrate clear academic excellence and a compelling rationale for pursuing both degrees. Admissions committees look for applicants who can articulate how the combination will advance their specific career goals in ways a single degree cannot.

Program Structures and Time Management

Concurrent degree programs follow several structural models. In the integrated model, coursework from both programs is interwoven throughout the entire educational experience. The sequential model has students complete most requirements for one degree before transitioning to the second program. The hybrid approach allows students to primarily focus on one program while gradually incorporating courses from the secondary program.

Time management becomes critical for success in these demanding programs. Students must juggle requirements from two different academic departments, each with its own culture, expectations, and deadlines. Many programs provide academic advisors specifically trained to help students navigate these complex requirements and create optimized course schedules.

Most concurrent programs identify courses that can satisfy requirements for both degrees, reducing the total credits needed. For example, an MBA/MPP (Master of Public Policy) program might count certain policy analysis courses toward both degrees, potentially saving students 15-20 credits compared to pursuing degrees separately.

Provider Comparison: Leading Universities

When selecting a concurrent degree program, the institution's reputation in both fields of study matters significantly. Below is a comparison of notable providers:

Each institution brings unique strengths to their concurrent degree offerings. For instance, MIT offers exceptional technical integration in their MBA/Engineering dual degrees, while UC Berkeley provides strong public sector and sustainability focuses in their concurrent programs.

Financial Considerations and ROI

The financial equation for concurrent degrees requires careful consideration. While these programs typically cost less than pursuing two separate degrees (due to shared credits and reduced time), they still represent a significant investment. Tuition for concurrent programs at top institutions can range from $80,000 to over $200,000 total, depending on the specific combination and institution.

Many universities offer specialized scholarship opportunities specifically for concurrent degree students. Additionally, some employers provide tuition assistance for employees pursuing advanced education that aligns with organizational needs, particularly for combinations like MBA/MS in technical fields or MBA/Healthcare combinations.

The return on investment varies by field combination. Data from Graduate Management Admission Council suggests that graduates with concurrent degrees typically command 15-25% higher starting salaries than those with single degrees in either field. Career flexibility represents another significant benefit, as graduates can pursue opportunities in either discipline or specialized roles at the intersection of both fields.

Conclusion

Concurrent graduate degrees offer ambitious professionals a powerful way to differentiate themselves in competitive job markets while building versatile skill sets that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries. While these programs demand exceptional commitment, time management, and financial investment, they provide unique career positioning that single-degree programs cannot match. Before pursuing this path, carefully assess your long-term goals, financial resources, and capacity for intensive academic work. For those with clear interdisciplinary aspirations, concurrent degrees can create career opportunities at the valuable intersection of multiple fields, where innovative solutions and leadership are increasingly valued.

Citations

• https://www.harvard.edu
• https://www.stanford.edu
• https://www.upenn.edu
• https://www.umich.edu
• https://www.columbia.edu
• https://www.mit.edu
• https://www.berkeley.edu
• https://www.gmac.com

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.