The value of a concurrent degree

Concurrent degrees are a great option for many students, because they require less time and fewer credits than pursuing those same degrees separately, which in turn makes earn both degrees less expensive. But they can also arm you with more and better skills that can give you a significant career advantage. 

Concurrent degrees are a great option for many students, because they require less time and fewer credits than pursuing those same degrees separately, which in turn makes earn both degrees less expensive. But they can also arm you with more and better skills that can give you a significant career advantage.

Two degrees for one excellent career

In essence, concurrent degrees can increase your long-term value and pay huge dividends in the short term, as well. At ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business, you can earn a highly ranked MBA and distinguish yourself even further with a second degree in law, information management, engineering, and other fields. Concurrent degree programs are not new, but market forces and a globalizing economy have increased the demand for leaders with advanced skills in a particular area and depth of knowledge overall. Pursuing a concurrent degree requires more planning and preparation in the application process and an unwavering focus as a student, but the payoffs — literally and figuratively — can be life-changing.

W. P. Carey alum Brady Cullimore pursued a second degree in the evenings while taking Full-time MBA classes during the day. "I've always been interested in information management, and it's increasingly important in business,” Brady says. “The dual degree classes fit together very well and having both degrees has made me more competitive in the workplace." Cullimore took a management position in the Global Network Services division of American Express upon graduation, where he has combined his supply chain and information management expertise to analyze work flow and improve complex logistics and processes.

Finding the right combination

Full-time MBA students can choose to combine their degrees with the following master’s programs within ASU:

• Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM)
• Master of Accountancy (MACC)
• Juris Doctor (JD)
• Master of Architecture (MArch)

Partnering with the acclaimed Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, the W. P. Carey MBA also offers dual degrees in engineering to students in the Professional Flex and Online programs. Concurrent degrees not only demonstrate to potential employers your skills and dedication, they will also make you more adaptable to whatever the future holds by giving you the business skills you need to stay nimble in any field. "Pursuing a dual degree has developed my analytical skills as well as the softer, interpersonal skills that law school glosses over,” says W. P. Carey alum Lauren Burke. “The MBA/JD has provided me with a valuable toolkit that I will utilize for the rest of my career."

Take the first step

Discover the highly ranked W. P. Carey MBA and find out how a concurrent degree can help you advance your career.