Is a double major in finance and economics worth it?

I am a first semester senior at a non-target university. Currently, I am studying abroad and taking all economics classes to fulfill my graduation requirements for that degree. I ended up traveling a lot and barely going to class and need almost perfect scores to pass my finals. I already have a job in IB (Job offer wont be affected if I drop degree) lined up after I graduate and my graduation requirements for my finance degree is fulfilled. I am debating just dropping the economics degree so I wanted to know if a double major is even worth it to employers?

6 Comments
 

Dropping the economics degree might not significantly impact your career trajectory, especially since you already have an investment banking (IB) job lined up. Here's what you need to consider based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Value of a Double Major: While a double major in finance and economics can look impressive on a resume, its value diminishes if you already have a job offer in IB. Employers in high finance prioritize work experience, internships, and networking over additional degrees. A double major is more beneficial for those still trying to break into the industry or looking to stand out in a competitive recruiting process.

  2. Focus on GPA: If maintaining the economics degree risks lowering your GPA, it might not be worth the trade-off. A strong GPA is often a key factor in early career opportunities, even if you already have a job offer. Dropping the economics degree could allow you to focus on excelling in your remaining finance coursework and maintaining a strong academic record.

  3. Long-Term Career Impact: In the long run, your performance in your IB role, networking, and skill development will matter far more than whether you had a double major. Employers value practical skills and experience over academic credentials once you're in the industry.

  4. Time and Energy: If pursuing the economics degree is causing undue stress or taking time away from other valuable activities (e.g., networking, preparing for your IB role, or personal development), it might be better to let it go. Your mental well-being and ability to perform well in your job are more important.

Recommendation:

If the economics degree isn't adding significant value to your career goals and is jeopardizing your GPA or causing unnecessary stress, it's reasonable to drop it. Focus on excelling in your finance degree and preparing for your IB role. Employers care more about your ability to perform on the job than an additional major, especially since you already have a foot in the door.

Sources: Finance Degree Worth More Than Accounting Degree?, Why you should consider Notre Dame for undergrad

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

drop it

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 

Just put it on your resume and drop it once you accept a summer analyst position. There is ZERO benefit to actually doing both majors and you receive any nominal value you could get by having both on your resume during recruitment. You should aim to get the highest GPA possible, which means focusing instead of spreading yourself thin. You also want to enjoy college and have enough time to recruit properly. 

 

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