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  • Ameera Asgar Khorakiwala

Exploring Specialized Programs and Dual-Degree Opportunities in the US

Updated: Aug 16

In the evolving landscape of higher education, ambitious students are increasingly pursuing dual-degree and specialized programs. These programs offer a unique blend of disciplines, providing a comprehensive educational experience that bridges diverse fields of study. Here, we delve into some of the most prestigious and innovative dual-degree and specialized programs available globally, each offering a distinctive approach to education.


The Huntsman Program is an interdisciplinary 4-year undergraduate course that combines business education at the Wharton School with intensive language and international studies. Students earn a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (from the College of Arts and Sciences) and a Bachelor of Science in Economics (from Wharton). With a required study abroad semester and unique freshman residency element, the program is specially designed for students who aspire to a career in international business, with an emphasis on cultural competence and global perspectives.


Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | RD - January 5, 2025


A unique collaboration between the University of Southern California, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Bocconi University in Milan, the World Bachelor in Business program allows students to study on three continents. Students spend a year each at USC, HKUST, and Bocconi, gaining diverse cultural and academic experiences. Graduates earn degrees from all three institutions, launching their careers through real consulting projects with global clients.


Institution: University of Southern California

Application deadline: December 1, 2024


The Jerome Fisher or M&T Program is the oldest coordinated dual degree program at Penn. It integrates an economics degree from Wharton with a bachelor of applied science in engineering from Penn Engineering. Students interested in the intersection of business and technology can opt for “M&T only” special courses in a cohort of 50-55 students with a global alumni base of 2,200. Note that applicants for the program must complete two additional essay questions specific to the Jerome Fish program.


Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | RD - January 5, 2025


This five-year program allows 15 students annually to earn both a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and a Bachelor of Arts or Science from Brown University. The RISD-Brown Dual Degree Program is ideal for students who are passionate about both art and a liberal arts education. Prospective students must apply and be accepted to both institutions and then be approved by a separate Brown|RISD Dual Degree admissions committee through a separate application supplement. A minimum of one year in residence at each school is expected of the students.


Institution: Brown University & RISD

Application deadline: ED - November 1 | RD - January 3 (Brown) and January 16 (RISD)


The Berkeley M.E.T. Program offers a unique dual-degree opportunity, combining a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Haas School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. Students can choose from one of the seven M.E.T. engineering tracks, namely aerospace, bioengineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering and computer science, industrial engineering and operations research, materials science and engineering, mechanical engineering, and engineering undeclared.


Institution: University of California, Berkeley

Application deadline: November 30, 2024


PLME is an eight-year continuum that allows students to combine both their undergraduate and medical school education at Brown. As the only combined baccalaureate-MD program in the Ivy League, it provides students a unique opportunity to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a medical degree (MD) from Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School. The program encourages applicants to take advantage of honors and AP offerings at school, letting in approximately 50 students freshmen each year.


Institution: Brown University

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | RD - January 5, 2025


The BXA programs at Carnegie Mellon University combine the strengths of its various colleges, offering unique interdisciplinary degrees. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Humanities and Arts (BHA), Bachelor of Science and Arts (BSA), Bachelor of Engineering Studies and Arts (BESA), Bachelor of Computer Science and Arts (BCSA), or Engineering and Arts (EA) additional major. These programs are designed for students who seek to integrate arts disciplines with humanities, sciences, or computer science, fostering innovation and creative problem-solving.


Institution: Carnegie Mellon University, College of Fine Arts

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | RD - January 2, 2025


VIPER is an undergraduate dual-degree program that focuses on energy science and engineering. Students earn a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in a related science field. This program is designed for students passionate about addressing global energy challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation. Students are expected to choose from a list of approved majors and engage in research experience and special energy courses.


Institution: University of Pennsylvania

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | RD - January 5, 2025


The USC Iovine and Young Academy offers a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation. This program encourages students to think creatively and entrepreneurially, blending technology, human-centered design, communication and business. It’s an ideal choice for students looking to drive innovation in various industries through a multidisciplinary approach.


Institution: University of Southern California (USC)

Application deadline: December 1, 2024


New York University’s 4-year Khubani Business, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (BTE) program integrates business education with a focus on technology and innovation. This degree touches upon several areas through its core requirements, namely liberal arts, social impact, business tools, functional business, entrepreneurship, technology and global experience. The university welcomes a class of approximately 30-50 students each year.


Institution: New York University

Application deadline: ED - November 1, 2024 | ED2 - January 1, 2025 | RD - January 5, 2025


To understand which of these programs is ideal for you, speak to your mentors at OnCourse who will be able to make the most effective recommendations keeping in mind your interests, your current academic standing and your resume. If you are not enrolled with OnCourse, reach out to set up a consultation meeting to understand more about our mentoring programs for students from Grade 8 to Grade 12.

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