Â鶹ֱ²¥ offers a number of formal dual-degree programs (i.e. joint-degree). A dual- or joint-degree program enables a student to earn two degrees concurrently and in a shortened period of time by completing a reduced number of credits in each program of study. The reduction in hours recognizes the integration of courses and content which overlap both programs.
Master's degrees of 30 hours may accept up to 6 hours in advanced standing and up to 12 hours of graduate credit may be shared ("double-counted") with the other program, as long as the credits are acceptable for application to the degree in question.
Master's degrees or other graduate or professional degrees requiring more than 30 graduate hours for completion may accept up to 25% of the total hours required for the degree in advanced standing and up to 40% of the total hours of graduate credit may be shared ("double-counted") as long as the credits are acceptable for the degree in question.
Dual-degree programs are recommended by the Dean of the school offering each individual degree, forwarded to the Graduate Council for review and comment, and approved by the Provost. The ad hoc pursuit of dual degrees other than those formally approved is not permitted.
Students must be admitted to each program separately. If application is not made to both programs concurrently, the student must apply for the second program while actively enrolled in the first. Upon acceptance to both programs, the student must notify his or her academic advisors in both programs of the intention to pursue the dual degree.
Students receive the two degrees included in the dual-degree program only upon completion of all requirements for the dual-degree program. Students are expected to complete the dual-degree program within seven years of their initial registration in either of the two programs.
Students who withdraw from a dual-degree program may complete one or both programs but must meet all of the standard requirements for each program separately. In such cases, graduate credit may not be shared between the programs, and students will be held to the original statute of limitations for the program(s) of study they pursue.
Nothing in this policy should be interpreted to preclude students from completing multiple degrees separately.