What Are The Benefits Of A Double Degree?

Why have one business school experience when you can have two? 

With a double degree, you’ll study two master’s programs consecutively at two partner business schools. When you graduate, you’ll earn two master’s degrees. 

Whether you want to study a management degree offering a different cultural perspective or gain generalist business knowledge alongside a specialization—there are a range of double degree options to choose from.

Depending on the program you choose, you’ll often study in two countries, gaining valuable international exposure and broadening your career options.  

Hear from double degree master’s students to find out more about the benefits of a joint program. 

You’ll gain international exposure 

The idea of moving to a new country can be daunting, but immersing yourself in a new culture and navigating the start of your career in a new country can also be hugely rewarding. 

The international exposure this provides is especially valuable in today’s interconnected business world. Recognizing this, Daniil Terletskyy (pictured) decided to pursue a double Master's in Management degree at the University of Mannheim Business School (UMBS) in Germany and ESSEC Business School in France. He also participated in the Global Manager in Asia Track to study at ESSEC’s Singapore campus for the summer. 

“Travelling to Asia as an international student is a unique opportunity to become familiar with Asian culture and the specific business context of the Asia-Pacific region,” says Daniil. 

Studying abroad also means gaining first-hand insights into international business practices, economies, and markets. 

Paul Coulet is another student who previously pursued a joint degree program. He studied the International Master's in Luxury Management offered by both NEOMA Business School in Mont-Saint-Aignan, France, and POLIMI Graduate School of Management in Milan, Italy. 

“Studying in two countries renowned for their legacy in the luxury industry meant I could explore several different sectors and understand the two different visions of management,” he says.

Studying a double degree will expand your network even further

With a double degree program, you can tap into the network of not one but two business schools. Not only will this enhance your master’s experience, but it can also be valuable later as you progress through your career.

“I have made many new friends from different countries, and I know that many of them will be long-lasting connections,” says Daniil. 

Business schools also often form strong partnerships with top companies that students can leverage during consulting projects and internships. 

Paul (pictured) made valuable connections with professionals and brands in the luxury fashion industry in France and Italy by working with them on company projects. He met with brands such as Fred and Krug, which are owned by LVMH—the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate. 

“We spoke about important topics such as the future of retail for Generation Z and finding the balance between tradition and innovation in the fashion industry,” he says. 

Mel Bronzel (pictured), a recent graduate with a Master’s in International Business and Digital Transformation, earned his double degree from Henley Business School in Reading, UK, and the POLIMI Graduate School of Management in Milan, Italy. He also emphasizes that pursuing a double degree significantly broadened his professional network.

“The double degree not only equipped me with interdisciplinary knowledge in digital transformation and international business, but also expanded my global network, which is a  key asset in a digitally connected world.”

You’ll increase your employability with a double degree 

Adapting to new environments, working with a diverse cohort, and experiencing business in multiple cities forges skills that will increase your employability in today’s business world.

According to the GMAC Corporate Recruiter’s Survey 2024, employers across various target industries consider cross-cultural competence of high value, with 42% of those in the tech industry identifying it as a key skill.

“Studying a double master’s degree has allowed me to challenge myself, become more adaptable, culturally aware, and open-minded,” says Daniil. 

This is also the case for Arthur Lamy (pictured), a double degree student currently working to complete a Master in Management at HEC Paris and a Master in Finance at Bocconi University, Milan. 

“We learn how to switch between different subjects, and adaptability is now a very valuable skill to me,” he says.

Plus, employers are likely to be impressed by your ability to complete a double degree, recognizing how it challenges you to manage your time effectively and push your limits and therefore showing a strong work ethic. 

You'll adopt new perspectives 

Studying a double degree can also help expose you to different viewpoints, broadening your perspective along the way.

By engaging with an academic discipline in two different environments, you learn how to analyze problems from multiple angles, which can be beneficial when it comes to dealing with complex business scenarios.

For Dorottya Jancsó (pictured), who studied for a Master’s in Management and Leadership with the CEMS International Management Program at Corvinus University of Budapest and UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School in Dublin, being part of two programs diversified her perspective while enhancing her problem-solving abilities in the process. 

"Being part of a double degree program meant that I got to enjoy two high-quality education programs with slightly different focuses. For example, my study program at Corvinus focused more on the consulting path, while UCD allowed me to explore the tech sales field," she explains. 

"I'm really grateful for this experience. Working with people across these two very different fields, I learnt various ways to approach business challenges," she adds.

A double degree also offers the chance to engage with people from different walks of life, helping students broaden their global perspective.

"During my CEMS classes, we had several group projects where we teamed up with peers from different countries. We shared our views and learnt a lot from one another, which has been fantastic for developing my expansive worldview," says Dorottya.

You’ll have an unforgettable master’s experience

Besides impacting your career, a double degree offers a diverse and enriching experience. Outside of the classroom, you’ll have the opportunity to explore new cities and cultures and connect with your classmates on a personal level.

“Having so many international people in the same cohort, united around one passion, creates true friendships for life,” says Paul. 

During his double degree, Daniil truly took advantage of the chance to tick desirable cities and countries off his bucket list. While studying at ESSEC in France, he explored Paris, Normandy, and Champagne. 

“Studying at two international business schools is incredible because ambitious and brilliant people constantly surround you, which creates an environment of continuous reciprocal learning that changes your mindset for the better,” says Daniil.