Choosing the right major is already a big decision, but what if you could double down and pick two? A double major can be a smart move if you want to combine your passions, stand out to employers, and potentially earn a high salary. While it does take extra work, the payoff can be worth it—not just financially, but in the unique career options you open up for yourself. To help you map out your future, we’ve compiled a list of the best double major combinations that can lead to high-earning careers. Whether you’re interested in science, business, or the arts, there’s likely an option here that suits you.

This guide will break everything down so you can easily understand what makes these combinations so powerful and how they can benefit you in the long run. By the end, you'll have a better idea of what paths might work for you and the potential they hold for your career.

What Is a Double Major and Why Does It Matter?

Before we jump into the specifics, it’s important to understand what a double major is. Simply put, it’s the act of earning a degree in two separate fields of study. For example, you might major in Psychology and Marketing, or Computer Science and Mathematics. This doesn’t mean you’re earning two separate bachelor’s degrees, but rather one degree that covers the requirements for both fields.

Double majoring can be demanding because you have to meet the academic requirements for two programs. However, it can also be extremely rewarding. Employers often see double majors as go-getters with strong time-management skills, and depending on the fields you combine, you may have a competitive edge in the job market. Plus, when your areas of study complement each other, they can prepare you for particularly high-demand, high-paying roles.

How to Choose the Right Combination

When thinking about a double major, you should focus on areas that are either complementary or allow you to diversify your skill set. Ask yourself:

  • Do these majors enhance each other? (Example: Business & Economics)
  • Do they prepare me for a specific high-paying field? (Example: Computer Science & Electrical Engineering)
  • Am I passionate about both fields?

You’ll also want to weigh how much time you’re willing to dedicate to school. Some double majors can be completed in four years with good planning, while others may take longer.

The Top Double Majors for High-Earning Careers

1. Business and Computer Science

This dynamic duo is one of the hottest combinations out there, and for good reason. Pairing business skills with a strong foundation in technology makes you a valuable asset in today’s tech-driven world. Graduates with this combo often land high-paying roles in tech management, product development, or entrepreneurship.

Why It Works

  • Business equips you with critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
  • Computer Science teaches you technical skills like coding, data analysis, and software development.

Potential Careers

  • Product Manager
  • Data Analyst
  • Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

2. Engineering and Mathematics

Engineering on its own is already a high-paying field, but adding mathematics can take your problem-solving and analysis skills to the next level. This combo is ideal for students who enjoy crunching numbers and figuring out how to make big ideas work in the real world.

Why It Works

  • Engineering relies heavily on math, and adding a second focus in math deepens your theoretical understanding.
  • You’ll stand out as a candidate for roles that require advanced problem-solving and technical precision.

Potential Careers

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Robotics Specialist
  • Research Scientist

3. Economics and Political Science

If you’re interested in understanding how the world works from both a financial and political perspective, this combination might be for you. It’s a common double major for those pursuing careers in government, finance, or international relations.

Why It Works

  • Economics trains you to analyze market trends and understand the forces behind financial systems.
  • Political Science gives you insight into policy-making, governance, and global relations.

Potential Careers

  • Policy Analyst
  • Financial Consultant
  • Economic Advisor

4. Psychology and Marketing

People often underestimate how useful psychology can be in the business world, especially when combined with marketing. This double major is great for students who are interested in why people make the decisions they do, from shopping habits to lifestyle choices.

Why It Works

  • Psychology helps you understand human behavior and decision-making.
  • Marketing lets you apply that knowledge to persuade, sell, and build customer loyalty.

Potential Careers

  • Consumer Behavior Analyst
  • Brand Strategist
  • Market Researcher

5. Biology and Computer Science

Biology and Computer Science might sound like an unlikely pair, but they complement each other well in fields like bioinformatics and biotechnology. This is a fantastic combination for students who want to work on cutting-edge advances in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science.

Why It Works

  • Biology provides knowledge about living systems and life sciences.
  • Computer Science equips you with tools to analyze big data and develop software solutions.

Potential Careers

  • Bioinformatics Specialist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Biomedical Engineer