Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [Not Current Academic Year. Consult with Your Academic Advisor for Your Catalog Year]

Dual-Degrees, Double Majors, and Minors


Policies  > Degree Requirements > Dual-Degrees, Double Majors, and Minors

Dual Degrees

Several colleges have approved dual-degree programs and accelerated pathway programs. Students interested in these opportunities should talk with their departmental graduate advisors to learn more about such options. Each dual degree program has specific admissions procedures and provides a pathway to pursue both degrees.

Minors

While many graduate and professional programs provide students the opportunity to have a minor field of study or specialization within the degree program, the University of Houston does not universally require completion of a minor. Individual degree programs may also encourage completion of course work outside the department. Doctoral students should read the section entitled Ad Hoc Interdisciplinary Degree Option  for other options.

Double Majors

In general, double majors (concurrent degrees) are not permitted for graduate students, unless they are admitted into an approved dual degree program. Students also may be approved to pursue a second concurrent degree within their existing academic field with permission of the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and the Dean of the college. A current student who wishes to pursue a concurrent degree in a different college may file a petition to request the approval of the Graduate School to do so. Such a petition should include:

  • an academic petition showing the support of the student’s current faculty advisor and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies
  • a letter offering admission from the secondary college
  • a written degree plan showing the combined course of study for both degrees which has been approved by the academic advisors of both programs, and
  • a statement of understanding, signed by the student and representatives of both colleges, addressing the student’s funding considerations (assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, etc.).

The approval of this petition by the Graduate School is required before the student begins taking coursework toward the secondary degree.