Double majoring has become more popular in recent years, with about 13% of Americans between ages 20 and 29 being double majors as of 2015. A separate study from the University of Pennsylvania found that double majors tend to earn more money over their careers, with STEM and business double majors seeing the biggest income boost. Despite the potential stress and additional costs, double majoring could be a worthwhile path for students preparing for a future where AI tools are more common in the workplace.
Key takeaways:
- Double majoring in college could increase job security in a future impacted by AI, according to a working paper from the National Bureau of Economic Research.
- Individuals with a double major were 56% less likely to experience negative “earnings shocks” such as job losses or pay cuts.
- Double majoring has become more popular in recent decades, with about 13% of Americans between ages 20 and 29 being double majors as of 2015.
- A University of Pennsylvania research paper found that double majors tend to earn more money over the course of their careers, particularly those in STEM and business.