Double Majoring in Engineering and Economics: An Insight into Ivy League Universities

The capability to double major in engineering and economics at Ivy League universities is a sought-after opportunity for students passionate about both technical and economic fields. Understanding the options available at these top institutions can help students make informed decisions about their academic paths.

Overview of Ivy League Universities Offering Double Majors in Engineering and Economics

Several Ivy League universities provide the flexibility to double major in engineering and economics. Here is an overview of the key institutions:

Cornell University

At Cornell University, students can double major in engineering and economics by pursuing an engineering degree alongside an economics major. The College of Engineering and the College of Arts and Sciences both offer programs that facilitate this combination, ensuring students have a well-rounded education in both fields.

Columbia University

Columbia University offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to double major across different schools. Engineering students can major in engineering and simultaneously take economics courses to meet the requirements for a second major. This flexibility makes it a great option for students interested in both disciplines.

University of Pennsylvania

Students at the University of Pennsylvania can pursue a dual degree through the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the Wharton School. The flexibility of the curriculum allows for a seamless combination of engineering and economics studies. This unique approach ensures that students benefit from interdisciplinary learning.

Harvard University

While Harvard does not have a traditional engineering school, it offers an engineering sciences track through the John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Students can major in economics, allowing for a double major. This dual focus provides a strong foundation in both technical and economic areas.

Princeton University

Princeton University allows students to pursue a degree in engineering through the School of Engineering and Applied Science and take economics courses. However, students should be aware that Princeton's program structure can be more rigid, so careful planning of their schedules is essential. Despite this, the flexibility to incorporate both disciplines remains a valuable asset.

Yale University

Yale University offers engineering programs through the Yale School of Engineering and Applied Science, and students can also major in economics. While double majoring is possible, students should consult with academic advisors for proper planning to ensure they meet all necessary criteria.

Considerations for Double Majoring in Engineering and Economics

When considering a double major in engineering and economics, it is crucial for students to check specific program requirements and work closely with academic advisors. This ensures that they can meet all necessary criteria and plan their academic journey effectively.

Unlocking Top Universities with Combined Studies

While many top universities offer the chance to double major in both engineering and economics, some specific factors come into play. For example, Princeton is one of the few schools that does not allow students to double major because of their thesis requirement. However, students can still minor in a second discipline.

Engineering and Business at Top Universities

It is worth noting that double majoring in engineering and business from a top university can be more challenging. Not all top schools offer business or, in some cases, engineering at the undergraduate level. For instance, universities like Brown, Columbia, Dartmouth, Duke, Harvard, Northwestern, Rice, Stanford, Vanderbilt, and Yale do not offer business as a major. Similarly, institutions like Emory, Georgetown, and UNC do not offer engineering. However, some schools, such as Northwestern, do offer two business certificates from its world-class Kellogg Graduate School, which can be pursued alongside an engineering major.

Special Cases and University Options

UCLA does not have an undergraduate business program, but it does have a business economics major. Among the top schools that offer both business and engineering undergraduate degrees, Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon, Cornell, Michigan, MIT, Notre Dame, Penn, Texas-Austin, USC, UVa, and WUSTL stand out.

Engineering Programs at Non-Top Universities

Georgia Tech, Johns Hopkins, Penn State, Purdue, UIUC, and Wisconsin-Madison are highly regarded institutions for engineering programs. However, their business programs may not be as well-connected to the corporate world as one might wish. NYU's Stern School is a top business school in the US, but Tandon Engineering may not be as strong as the engineering programs at other top universities.

The graduation requirements for a double major in business and engineering are typically steep, often requiring an additional 2 semesters to complete. Penn’s Jerome Fisher program is unique because it has modified and condensed both disciplines in a complementary fashion, allowing students to complete their dual degree in 4 years while adhering to the principles of a liberal arts education. However, this also means that students in that program may not delve as deeply into either engineering or business as majors in these disciplines would otherwise.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is easier to double major in engineering and economics in terms of graduation requirements and finding top universities that excel in both fields, the process can still be challenging. Northwestern, for instance, does not have an undergraduate business program but offers two business certificates that can be pursued alongside an engineering major. The business economics major at UCLA is a unique option for students interested in both fields. It is essential to carefully consider and plan such a complex academic path.

Based on these factors, I personally recommend studying business at the graduate level. An engineering and economics double major can be a strong foundation, followed by obtaining an MBA from a top 10 business school after working for a few years. This combination can provide a well-rounded, highly specialized skill set that is in high demand in today's job market.