[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may have thought about pursuing a master’s degree, but have you ever considered earning two master’s degrees at the same time? Many colleges offer online dual master’s degree programs that allow you to creatively complete your graduate-level studies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A dual master’s degree is a lesser-known path that gives you the ability to earn two [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/”]master’s degrees[/hen-ui-link] concurrently. A dual degree program can be a great option if you have multiple career interests and can’t pursue your passions in a single degree program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Read our guide to learn more about how these programs work, what the best graduate schools with dual degree programs are, and why a dual master’s program might be the right fit for you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]10 Best Dual Master’s Degree Programs Online[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Rank Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability, so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This list has been updated for 2025. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Dual Master’s Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Dual master’s degree programs allow you to earn two master’s degrees from different fields or disciplines. By combining two fields of study, you can develop a unique set of skills and gain the expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in your chosen profession.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Dual Master’s Degree vs. Two Separate Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Factor[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Dual Master’s Degree Program[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Two Separate Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Factor”]Length of Time to Complete[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Dual Master’s Degree Program”]2-3 years[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Two Separate Master’s Degrees”]4 years[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Factor”]Total Required Credits[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Dual Master’s Degree Program”]50-70 credits[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Two Separate Master’s Degrees”]70-100 credits[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Factor”]Affordability[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Dual Master’s Degree Program”]You pay less due to the lower number of credits and faster completion time.[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Two Separate Master’s Degrees”]You pay more due to the higher number of credits and slower completion time.[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Factor”]Credentials Upon Graduation[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Dual Master’s Degree Program”]Two master’s degrees[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Two Separate Master’s Degrees”]Two master’s degrees[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Dual master’s degree programs can also reduce the time and costs of graduate school compared to pursuing two master’s degrees separately. Common examples of dual master’s programs include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]master of business administration[/hen-ui-link] (MBA) and master of science (MS) in engineering: Ideal for entrepreneurs, project leaders, and product developers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-health/”]master of public health[/hen-ui-link] (MPH) and MBA: Best suited for healthcare managers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master of teaching (MAT) and master of education (M.Ed.): Useful for education leaders, curriculum developers, and higher education instructors[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Dual Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online master’s degree programs delve deep into content areas and allow you to pursue specialized interests. Although schools offer many master’s degree options, some subjects are more commonly found than others, and some pair better than others for dual master’s programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Check out some popular dual master’s degree options below:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#education”]Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#information-technology”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#mba”]MBA[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#nursing”]Nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#psychology”]Psychology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#public-administration”]Public Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#public-health”]Public Health[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”#social-work”]Social Work[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”education”]Education[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-education/”]master’s degree in education[/hen-ui-link] focuses on specialized areas, such as curriculum and instruction, special education, or school leadership. It pairs well with other education degrees, business degrees, or social work degrees. A dual degree in education can help you pursue careers in business administration, education policy, or school leadership.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”information-technology”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-information-technology/”]master’s degree in IT[/hen-ui-link] can complement other programs in technology, education, or business. A dual master’s in IT prepares you for tech-related roles in diverse fields, such as healthcare, education, and business.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”mba”]Business Administration[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A dual [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]MBA program[/hen-ui-link] offers a potent combination of business acumen and specialized expertise. You can combine an MBA with a specialized master’s degree, such as an MS in a field like finance, marketing, healthcare management, or technology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”nursing”]Nursing[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Completing a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-nurse-practitioner/”]master’s in nursing degree[/hen-ui-link] program gives you the opportunity to specialize in areas within healthcare, such as pediatrics or oncology, or to advance your nursing career. A dual master’s in nursing and public health, healthcare administration, or business can unlock careers in administrative healthcare or public health policy.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”psychology”]Psychology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/psychology-degree/”]master’s degree in psychology[/hen-ui-link] complements various other fields, such as leadership, education, and management. With a dual master’s degree in psychology and another field of your choice, you could pursue careers in areas like counseling, marketing, or public mental health.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”public-administration”]Public Administration[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/public-administration-degree/”]master’s degree in public administration[/hen-ui-link] covers areas of study including economics, analytics, and management. It can pair well with a degree in international affairs or an MBA. A dual master’s degree in public administration can prepare you for roles in areas such as legislation, public relations, and community outreach.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”public-health”]Public Health[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-health/”]master’s degree in public health[/hen-ui-link] equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve community health through roles in hospitals, government, nonprofits, and research organizations. A dual master’s degree in public health pairs well with a degree in nursing, business, or social work.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”social-work”]Social Work[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-social-work/”]master’s in social work[/hen-ui-link] involves study in research, policy, and analytics, which you can combine with many fields, including international studies, public policy, or legal studies. A dual master’s degree in social work can lead to a career in education, community service management, or healthcare.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Choose a Dual Master’s Degree Program: 6 Factors to Consider[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]So you want to make a smart choice about pursuing a dual master’s degree program? Below are some key factors to consider:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”number”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Program Suitability: Ensure both disciplines align with your career goals and interests. Look for programs that offer a strong curriculum in both areas.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]X Factor: Look for an X factor — something unique that the dual master’s program offers like subjects or specializations that will boost your skills and can make you more marketable.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation: Verify that the program and the institution offering that program are accredited by [hen-ui-link href=”https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/agency-list” target=”_blank”]recognized accreditation bodies[/hen-ui-link]. This ensures the quality and credibility of your degree.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cost and Financial Aid: Check how long the program takes to complete and [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/paying-for-college/”]how much the college costs[/hen-ui-link]. Consider exploring [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/scholarships/”]scholarship opportunities[/hen-ui-link], grants, and financial aid options to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Student Support Services: Research what kind of support you’ll receive from teachers and staff, such as academic advising, technical support, library access, and counseling services.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Reputation and Alumni Network: A program or school with a strong reputation and active alumni network can open doors for employment opportunities and professional growth.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You should also research program policies and admission requirements for both degrees. Other important considerations include [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]online class format[/hen-ui-link], credit requirements, the program’s job placement record, and your eligibility for in-state tuition. You also may qualify for [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/scholarships/”]scholarship opportunities[/hen-ui-link] offered by both programs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Apply for an Online Dual Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Applying for admission to an online dual master’s degree program requires a few steps. First, you’ll need to meet the requirements for both programs that you’re interested in pursuing. At some schools, you must apply to both programs separately, while other programs require a single application.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Secondly, graduate schools with dual degree programs typically require you to connect with an academic advisor or graduate coordinator to better understand the application and dual degree process. Depending on the degree programs you pursue, you may need to take one or more standardized tests [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/applying-to-college/how-to-apply-for-college/”] before applying[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If the two degree programs you’re interested in pursuing aren’t currently being offered as a dual master’s degree program, you’ll work with your advisor to create an integrated course of study. Developing a course of study helps ensure you’re satisfying requirements for both degree programs in a structured and timely manner.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Lastly, once you’ve consulted with an advisor and finalized your course plan, you can submit your program plan form for approval and admission.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online Dual Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Are online master’s degrees respected?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes. Online master’s degrees from accredited programs meet the same standards as in-person master’s degrees. Online master’s students receive the same diplomas as on-campus graduates.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does a dual master’s degree take to complete?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can complete a dual master’s degree in as few as two years. However, most programs take 2-3 years to complete. Your degree completion time depends on several factors, including your full- or part-time status, summer enrollment, and prerequisites.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Are dual degree programs worth it?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A dual degree program can be worth it, depending on your career interests and goals. A dual degree program gives you the opportunity to overlap two areas of interest without having to attend graduate school to attain two separate degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the difference between a double major and a dual degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A student pursuing a double major earns one bachelor’s degree in two areas of study, for example, a bachelor of science in economics and political science. A dual degree program allows you to earn two degrees simultaneously, such as a master of social work and a master of public health.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”325,9101,1144″][/hen-ui-article-row]