If you are at a crossroads as you try to choose between two graduate programs, why not consider a dual master’s degree? Universities that offer them curate and structure courses to make the most of your time and return on investment. You’d gain the knowledge and skills that will best position you in the job market, and both graduate programs would be prominently displayed on your degree.
Of course, you have the option to enroll in a M.A. or M.S. degree concentrating on a specific area. But more often, those programs offer only introductory courses that may not provide you with the most comprehensive or marketable foundation. With an interdisciplinary dual degree, however, you’ll be ready for career advancement that can be successfully applied and monetized in the workplace.
Why a dual master’s degree?
Dual degrees such as a master’s in Business Administration and Cybersecurity “can be powerful differentiators in the marketplace,” says James Ryerson, Director of Marymount University’s School of Business.
“The MBA offers the breadth of understanding in all aspects of business, while the cyber degree offers a depth of experience in one of today’s most in-demand fields,” he explained. “As businesses become more technology-driven, these degrees give you the expertise at the intersection of business and technology, two of today’s hottest job markets.”
Other dual degrees, like Forensic & Legal Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, combine courses such as Psychology of Criminal Behavior (FLP 531) with Group Counseling Techniques (CE 523). With a master’s degree in Cybersecurity and Information Technology, your coursework partners Computer Network Defense (IT 670) with Enterprise Data Management and Analysis (IT 540).
Can’t I just enroll in two master’s programs?
You could, but dual degree programs like those at Marymount University offer an interdisciplinary approach. It is a ‘cross-pollination,’ if you will, of knowledge and skills from different — yet highly correlated — fields. Graduates can easily move between fields such as information technology and cybersecurity, business and information technology or counseling and forensic and legal psychology.
How long will it take? How much will it cost?
There are a variety of time periods and paths for earning a dual master’s degree. At Marymount, most can be completed in 54-57 credit hours, and MBA coursework is offered online. It’s possible to earn a dual degree in two graduate areas without doubling the cost of graduate school. Marymount’s Office of Graduate Admissions can help with that.
For more information about Marymount’s dual master’s programs, visit:
Business Administration/Cybersecurity
Business Administration/Information Technology
Forensic & Legal Psychology/Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Specialization
Information Technology/Cybersecurity
