University offers you the chance to specialise in what interests you most, but that doesn't have to be just one thing. Adding extra subjects to your course is an option in many cases, with elective modules allowing you to explore areas that may be very different to the one you arrive to study. Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to studying more than one subject, and this is something you might want to consider. If so, our advice could help.
Advantages
Good for your CV
When you take on an extra subject at university, you may be accepting more work and responsibility.
This looks great to potential employers, as it shows willingness to try hard and strive for more, beyond what may be compulsory. Not everyone is keen to balance different assignments and deadlines in this way, meaning that doing so could set you apart. Such commitment can take you a long way in the workplace, as well as at university.
In addition, a more rounded education can be seen as a sign of a more rounded individual. Having a wide range of knowledge and interests never hurts in any setting.
Find out more about how studying abroad helps your career.
More career options
Speaking of your future employment, taking on an extra subject can open up additional career paths. You might carve out a niche within your main study area, or find something more unexpected. Either way, your job prospects could be enhanced.
For example, imagine that you are a law student with an interest in environmental law. Taking a course in environmental studies could greatly enhance your understanding of the issues involved. Further down the line, you may be better placed to work in the area.
At the same time, you could attend language classes. Whether you are already conversational or a complete newcomer, improving your linguistic skills will always be a good thing. From a career perspective, it could make it possible for you to work in new countries, or with colleagues from around the world.
Explore some top career-boosting subjects with our guide to the best courses for professional development.
Expands your knowledge
It's not just your career opportunities that will broaden when you add extra subjects to your degree. If you love learning, the chance to explore new areas can be extremely enjoyable, and give you a much wider view of the world.
Trying something different can be an everyday occurrence at university. In some ways, it is easier to do there than anywhere else. Your institution may well offer courses in things that you had never even heard of before arriving – and they could become your new passion.
So, if you see education as a way to understand the unknown and encounter the unforeseen, studying multiple subjects could be the perfect choice. You never know what you might uncover.
If this way of thinking appeals to you, we have some suggestions. Check out our list of top interdisciplinary subjects.
Disadvantages
Takes more time
Studying at university can sometimes be stressful. With so many deadlines to meet and exams to revise for, it may occasionally feel like a challenge to get everything done comfortably.
As such, it is important to consider the time and effort that will be required if you take on an additional subject. If it is studied in place of one of your core subjects, there might be no extra load at all, but if it is on top of them, the weight could be significant. In that case, you can expect more lectures, seminars and assignments.
While university is about getting your degree, it’s also about enjoying the experience. If taking on more subjects means that your main modules become more difficult, or that you have less time to see friends than you would like, you may want to consider it carefully.
Whatever path you choose, help will be at hand. Find out how to get support at university.
Less familiar
While learning something new or different to your main area of study can be refreshing, it could also prove difficult. If you come to a subject as a complete novice, it may be more challenging than something with which you are already somewhat familiar.
This could be particularly important if your grades are involved. Although you may well thrive in your new subject, you may want to consider the possibility that you will not score as highly in it as you would in a core module. A weaker grade could affect your overall degree result.
Of course, this should not be your only consideration. If you feel motivated enough to study something new, it shouldn't stop you doing it. Moreover, it might not be a factor at all. If your additional subject is not graded, you can enjoy it without worrying about assessment.
Not sure what you want to study? Read our advice on what course to take at university.
May cost extra
In certain cases, some universities charge you more for adding subjects to your degree. This may not apply to you, but is definitely something to find out before making any decisions.
If extra costs are involved, you might want to take a close look at your budget. You may be able to absorb what is required, or you may need to find ways of making the numbers work. In the latter case, you shouldn't rush into anything that could cause you financial problems.
Fortunately, there are always likely to be free alternatives. Look out for courses run by your students' union or in your local community. If you cannot find anything suitable, you could look to online courses.
We hope this has helped you consider whether you should add extra subjects to your degree. If you would still like more food for thought, you could take our advice on matching your study and career path, or read our list of emerging degree subjects. Alternatively, you can look for a course now with our simple search tool.
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