{"id":23186,"date":"2023-01-26T06:49:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-26T14:49:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/?p=23186"},"modified":"2025-09-29T10:05:28","modified_gmt":"2025-09-29T17:05:28","slug":"second-bachelors-degree","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/","title":{"rendered":"Getting a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you feel like your career has plateaued, earning a second bachelor\u2019s degree may open the door to advancement opportunities or allow you to transition into a new field entirely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In today\u2019s job market, unfortunately one bachelor\u2019s degree is often the minimum requirement. A second degree can demonstrate to employers that you have invested in building a broader educational foundation and that you are serious about pursuing long-term growth.\u00a0<br><\/p>\n\n\n<!-- load the widget code --><div class=\"esy_widget_container esy_type_search\" style=\"min-height:175px\"><\/div><script data-cfasync=\"false\" type=\"text\/javascript\">document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function(event) {ESY.Widget({category_id: '',domain_id: 'careerkarma.com',widget_id: '945946',custom_options: '',tags: '',intro: '',type: 'search'});});<\/script><!-- END load the widget code -->\n\n\n\n<p>All of this being said, a second bachelor\u2019s degree isn\u2019t the only way to update your skills. Alternatives like graduate programs, professional certifications, or industry-specific bootcamps can sometimes be a quicker or more cost-effective option. Later in this guide, we\u2019ll compare these paths so you can make an informed choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-reasons-to-get-a-second-bachelor-s-degree\"><strong>Best Reasons to Get a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While continuing your education can take many forms, pursuing a second bachelor\u2019s degree can offer distinct benefits depending on your goals. Here are some common scenarios where a second undergraduate degree may be worthwhile:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>If your career goals require it.<\/strong> Some professions, like nursing, engineering, or teaching, may require specific undergraduate coursework before you can qualify for licensure or certification. If you are interested in one of these professions but don\u2019t have a related undergraduate degree, you may need to get a secondary degree related to this interest.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you want to enter a new career field.<\/strong> For example, someone with a psychology degree may return to school for computer science to pursue roles in software engineering.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you need to raise your GPA.<\/strong> A second bachelor\u2019s program can give you an opportunity to transfer credits and improve your academic standing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If your original degree has become outdated.<\/strong> This is common in fields like computer science, data science, and information systems, where technology evolves rapidly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you have strong work experience but lack formal credentials.<\/strong> A second degree can provide the credential needed for advancement into management or leadership roles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If a master\u2019s degree is too costly or time-intensive.<\/strong> A second bachelor\u2019s may offer a shorter or more affordable route to new opportunities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>If you want a broader curriculum.<\/strong> A second bachelor\u2019s typically requires fewer specialized courses than a master\u2019s, which may be appealing if you prefer a wider range of subjects.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-reasons-not-to-get-a-second-bachelor-s-degree\">Reasons Not to Get a Second Bachelor&#8217;s Degree<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A second bachelor\u2019s degree can be the right move for some students, but it\u2019s not always the fastest or most affordable path. Consider these drawbacks before you commit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>You may take on additional debt.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/loans\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">Federal Direct Loans<\/a> are available to eligible undergraduates but are capped by annual and lifetime (aggregate) limits, which include what you already borrowed for your first degree.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Grants are limited after your first bachelor\u2019s.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/pell\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">Federal Pell Grants<\/a> are generally not available if you already hold a bachelor\u2019s degree, with a narrow exception for certain post\u2011baccalaureate teacher certification programs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>It can take longer than a master\u2019s program.<\/strong> Many master\u2019s degrees require about <strong>30\u201360 credits<\/strong>, which can be completed faster than earning the <strong>additional 30+ undergraduate credits<\/strong> many schools require for a second bachelor\u2019s.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>There may be cheaper, targeted alternatives.<\/strong> Depending on your goal, a master\u2019s degree, post\u2011bacc certificate, professional certification, or an industry bootcamp could help you qualify for roles with fewer credits and at a lower total cost.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Program availability varies by school.<\/strong> Not all colleges offer second bachelor\u2019s pathways in every major.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No guaranteed outcomes.<\/strong> A second degree may improve your qualifications, but outcomes depend on your experience, market demand, and the roles you pursue.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-universities-offering-second-bachelor-s-degree-programs\">Universities Offering Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree Programs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Second-bachelor\u2019s rules vary by school and department. Typical requirements include a minimum GPA, <strong>at least 30 new credits<\/strong>, and program-specific prerequisites. Below are example universities that accept second-degree applicants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nyu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>New York University (NYU)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/nursing.nyu.edu\/academics\/undergraduate\/second-degree-transfer#:~:text=Second%20Degree%20Transfer%20Baccalaureate%20students,degree%20plus%20additional%20prerequisite%20requirements.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">NYU offers second-degree pathways<\/a> in <strong>nursing<\/strong> and <strong>engineering<\/strong>. NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing admits second-degree students through an <strong>Accelerated 15-Month BS<\/strong> and a <strong>Second Degree Transfer<\/strong> track with advanced standing\/prerequisites.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rutgers.edu\/academics\/schools-and-colleges\/school-of-arts-and-sciences\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences (SAS)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 Second-degree admission generally requires a <strong>minimum 2.5 GPA<\/strong> and completion of <strong>at least 30 new credits in residence at New Brunswick<\/strong>. The second major must be <strong>distinct<\/strong> from your first degree.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.southalabama.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>University of South Alabama (USA)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 Second-bachelor\u2019s applicants must submit official transcripts; <strong>minimum cumulative GPA 2.0<\/strong> is required for admission.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uic.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 A second bachelor\u2019s requires <strong>a minimum of 30 semester hours at UIC<\/strong>; it\u2019s <strong>generally not permitted<\/strong> when there is <strong>substantial overlap<\/strong> with your first degree\u2019s coursework.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oregonstate.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Oregon State University (OSU)<\/strong><\/a> \u2014 Post-baccalaureate (second-degree) admission is <strong>department-determined<\/strong>; minimum <strong>2.25 GPA<\/strong>; you <strong>cannot<\/strong> earn the post-bacc in the <strong>same field<\/strong> as your original degree.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t live near your chosen school or need more flexibility, some universities, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/ecampus.oregonstate.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Oregon State Ecampus<\/strong><\/a>, also offer <strong>online<\/strong> second-bachelor\u2019s options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-financial-aid-for-a-second-bachelor-s-degree\"><strong>Financial Aid for a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Quick answer:<\/strong> If you already have a bachelor\u2019s degree, you typically <strong>won\u2019t qualify for <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/pell\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Federal Pell Grants<\/strong><\/a>, except in a narrow case for certain <strong>post-baccalaureate teacher certification\/licensure programs<\/strong>. You <strong>may<\/strong> qualify for <strong>federal student loans<\/strong> (up to undergraduate aggregate limits) and, depending on need and school funding, <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/work-study\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Federal Work-Study<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Federal Student Loans<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can apply for <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/loans\/subsidized-unsubsidized\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Direct Subsidized\/Unsubsidized Loans<\/strong><\/a> for a second bachelor\u2019s <strong>until you reach the federal aggregate limits<\/strong> (dependent undergrads: <strong>$31,000 total<\/strong>; independent undergrads: <strong>$57,500 total<\/strong>; no more than <strong>$23,000<\/strong> may be subsidized). If your second-degree program <strong>requires<\/strong> a prior associate or bachelor\u2019s degree for admission (common in post-bacc\/second-degree pathways), schools use the <strong>\u201cthird-year and beyond\u201d annual loan limits<\/strong> for packaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tip: Check your <strong>remaining eligibility<\/strong> against the aggregate limits before enrolling so you know how much federal loan room you still have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scholarships<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Second-degree students <strong>can<\/strong> receive scholarships, but <strong>eligibility varies<\/strong> by scholarship and school. Review each program\u2019s criteria to confirm it accepts post-baccalaureate or second-degree applicants. For those preparing to teach in <strong>high-need fields at low-income schools<\/strong>, the federal <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/teach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>TEACH Grant<\/strong><\/a> can provide <strong>up to $4,000 per year<\/strong> in grant aid (with a service obligation and potential conversion to a loan if requirements aren\u2019t met).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Work-Study<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you qualify based on financial need and your school has funds, <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/work-study\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Federal Work-Study (FWS)<\/strong><\/a> can place you in part-time roles <strong>on or off campus<\/strong>; jobs are scheduled around classes. You\u2019re paid regularly (hourly for undergraduates), and FWS <strong>wages must be at least the federal minimum wage<\/strong>, or higher if your state\/local minimum is higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-highest-paid-careers-for-bachelor-s-degree-graduates\"><strong>Highest-Paid Careers for Bachelor\u2019s Degree Graduates<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are high-paying roles that <strong>typically require at least a bachelor\u2019s degree<\/strong>, with <strong>median pay<\/strong> from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a>. Figures are national medians; actual salaries vary by industry, location, and experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Computer and Information Systems Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$171,200<\/strong><sup>1<\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Architectural and Engineering Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$167,740<\/strong><sup>2<\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financial Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$161,700<\/strong>\u00b3<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Natural Sciences Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$161,180<\/strong>\u2074<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marketing Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$157,620<\/strong>\u2075<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$219,140<\/strong>;<sup>6<\/sup> <strong>Commercial Pilots<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$113,080<\/strong>.<sup>7<\/sup> (Airline pilots typically need a bachelor\u2019s degree plus FAA licenses; commercial pilots do not usually require a bachelor\u2019s.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Petroleum Engineers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$141,280<\/strong><sup>8<\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Human Resources Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$140,030<\/strong><sup>9<\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Compensation and Benefits Managers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$140,360<\/strong><sup>10<\/sup><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Software Developers<\/strong> \u2014 <strong>$1331,450<\/strong><sup>11<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-alternatives-to-getting-a-second-bachelor-s-degree\">Alternatives to Getting a Second Bachelor&#8217;s Degree<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If a second bachelor\u2019s isn\u2019t <strong>required<\/strong> by job postings or licensure in your target field, consider these faster or more targeted paths instead. Use the quick rule of thumb: if postings ask for a <strong>specific bachelor\u2019s major<\/strong>, a second bachelor\u2019s degree may be necessary; if they accept <strong>any bachelor\u2019s<\/strong> plus skills or a credential, an advanced degree, certificate, bootcamp, or certification could be more efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-master-s-degrees\">Master\u2019s Degrees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A master\u2019s degree is usually the best option if you\u2019re staying in the <strong>same or a closely related field<\/strong> and want advanced depth. Most master\u2019s programs require <strong>about 30\u201360 credits<\/strong>, often completed in <strong>1\u20132 years full time<\/strong>, depending on prerequisites and pace. Outcomes vary by program, so confirm admission requirements and any prerequisite leveling you may need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-post-baccalaureate-certificates\"><strong>Post-Baccalaureate Certificates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Post-bacc or graduate certificates can help you <strong>meet prerequisites<\/strong>, add a <strong>specialized skillset<\/strong>, or strengthen your transcript for graduate school, typically with <strong>fewer credits<\/strong> than a full degree. Many universities set minimums like <strong>12 credits<\/strong> (and some capstone certificates run <strong>9\u201316 credits<\/strong>), which can often be finished in under a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bootcamps-tech-amp-related-fields\"><strong>Bootcamps (Tech &amp; Related Fields)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bootcamps teach job-focused skills (e.g., <strong>software, data, cybersecurity<\/strong>) in a short, structured format. A common full-time program length is about <strong>12 weeks<\/strong>, financing options frequently include <strong>installment plans, loans, scholarships, and some deferred options<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-professional-certifications\"><strong>Professional Certifications<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Industry certifications validate specific competencies through an <strong>exam<\/strong>, and can be combined with your existing degree for targeted roles. Examples include <a href=\"https:\/\/partners.comptia.org\/certifications\/security\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>CompTIA Security+<\/strong> <\/a>(cybersecurity), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pmi.org\/certifications\/certified-associate-capm?utm_job_number=16&amp;utm_region_name=north_america&amp;utm_funnel_stage=customer_acquisition&amp;utm_marketing_channel=paid_media&amp;utm_marketing_subchannel=display_prospecting&amp;utm_start_date=09122024&amp;utm_end_date=12312026&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_custom_field_one=capm_pmax_certification_north_america_display&amp;utm_custom_field_two=none&amp;utm_custom_field_three=none&amp;utm_custom_field_four=none&amp;utm_custom_field_five=none&amp;s_kwcid=AL!8620!3!!!!x!!&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=21719119157&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADkaZHtPWAkVCJT8iNzvNhz1uVnVc&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwwZDFBhCpARIsAB95qO2c6PXSwkBpC_Lw_cjudO3EXu06SPd2THy5AWiWloZVt6g5FA1CoaEaAhWTEALw_wcB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>PMI CAPM<\/strong><\/a> (project management), and <a href=\"https:\/\/aws.amazon.com\/certification\/certified-cloud-practitioner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner<\/strong> <\/a>(cloud fundamentals). Requirements and prep time vary by credential, so make sure that you check the official exam outlines and policies before you register.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-is-getting-a-second-bachelor-s-degree-worth-it\">Is Getting a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree Worth It?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Short answer:<\/strong> It\u2019s worth it when job postings (or licensure rules) <strong>specifically require a bachelor\u2019s in the new field<\/strong> and you need undergraduate prerequisites to qualify. It\u2019s usually <strong>not<\/strong> the most efficient route if postings accept <strong>any bachelor\u2019s<\/strong> plus skills, a certificate, or a master\u2019s. In those cases, compare time, credits, and total cost across alternatives before you enroll.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-quick-decision-framework\"><strong>A quick decision framework<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><em>Do postings require a specific major?<\/em><\/strong> If most roles name a particular bachelor\u2019s (e.g., BSN for nursing), a second BA\/BS can be the most direct path. Accelerated second-degree options exist in some fields, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/nursing.nyu.edu\/academics\/undergraduate\/accelerated-15-month\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>NYU\u2019s 15-month BS in Nursing<\/strong><\/a> for bachelor\u2019s-holders with prerequisites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>How many new credits will you need?<\/em><\/strong> Many schools require <strong>at least 30 new credits in residence<\/strong> for a second bachelor\u2019s, which often means ~2+ years full time depending on transfer rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Would a master\u2019s be faster?<\/em><\/strong> Potentially, yes. Typical master\u2019s programs require <strong>~30\u201360 credits<\/strong> and take <strong>~1.5\u20132 years full time<\/strong>, which can actually be shorter than completing all second-bachelor\u2019s requirements if you already meet the grad prerequisites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>What\u2019s the funding reality?<\/em><\/strong><em> <\/em>With a prior bachelor\u2019s, you generally <strong>won\u2019t qualify for <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/pell\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Pell Grants<\/strong><\/a> (except for a narrow <strong>post-baccalaureate teacher certification<\/strong> case). You <strong>may<\/strong> still borrow <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/loans\/subsidized-unsubsidized\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Direct Loans<\/strong><\/a> up to the <strong>undergraduate aggregate limits<\/strong> you haven\u2019t already used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Are there any program restrictions?<\/em><\/strong> Some schools <strong>don\u2019t allow substantial overlap<\/strong> between your first and second degrees, which can affect your eligibility and your time to completion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Practical next step:<\/strong> Scan 5\u201310 current postings in your target field. If&nbsp; over 75% require a specific bachelor\u2019s major, a second BA\/BS likely aligns. If postings accept <em>any<\/em> bachelor\u2019s plus skills or a credential, compare a <strong>master\u2019s<\/strong>, <strong>post-bacc certificate<\/strong>, <strong>bootcamp<\/strong>, or <strong>industry certification<\/strong> on credits, cost, and hiring fit. Then check your remaining federal loan eligibility before committing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-getting-a-second-bachelor-s-degree-faq\">Getting a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1604107245178\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong><em>How long does it take to get a second bachelor\u2019s degree?<\/em><\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Plan for about <strong>two to three years full time<\/strong> if you need <strong>~30+ new credits<\/strong>. Many schools require <strong>at least 30 credits in residence<\/strong> for a second bachelor\u2019s, while some fields offer <strong>accelerated second-degree options<\/strong> for students who have already met the prerequisites.<br\/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1604107324614\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does FAFSA pay for a second bachelor&#8217;s degree?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>FAFSA is the application<\/strong>, not the funding. With a prior bachelor\u2019s, you\u2019re generally <strong>not eligible for <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/pell\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Federal Pell Grants<\/strong><\/a>, except in a narrow case for certain <strong>post-baccalaureate teacher certification\/licensure programs<\/strong>. You <strong>may<\/strong> still be eligible for <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/loans\/subsidized-unsubsidized\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Direct Loans<\/strong><\/a> (up to any remaining <strong>undergraduate aggregate limits<\/strong>) and, depending on need and school funding, <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/help-center\/answers\/article\/federal-work-study\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\"><strong>Federal Work-Study<\/strong><\/a>.<br\/><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1604107424076\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you get two bachelor&#8217;s degrees from different schools?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. If your first degree is from an <strong>accredited institution<\/strong> and the second school <strong>admits post-baccalaureate students<\/strong>, you can pursue a second bachelor\u2019s there\u2014subject to the school\u2019s policy (commonly a <strong>minimum residency of 30 new credits<\/strong> and completion of the new major\u2019s requirements).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1604107502250\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you get two bachelor\u2019s degrees at the same time?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Often, yes, through a <strong>dual-degree<\/strong> program (two separate degrees), which is different from a <strong>double major<\/strong> (one degree with two majors). Dual degrees typically require <strong>more total credits<\/strong> than a double major.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/architectural-and-engineering-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/architectural-and-engineering-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/financial-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/financial-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/natural-sciences-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/natural-sciences-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes112021.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes112021.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes532011.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes532011.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes532012.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/oes\/2023\/may\/oes532012.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/architecture-and-engineering\/petroleum-engineers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/architecture-and-engineering\/petroleum-engineers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/human-resources-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/human-resources-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/compensation-and-benefits-managers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/management\/compensation-and-benefits-managers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/computer-and-information-technology\/software-developers.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" rel=\"nofollow\">https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/computer-and-information-technology\/software-developers.htm<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"If you feel like your career has plateaued, earning a second bachelor\u2019s degree may open the door to advancement opportunities or allow you to transition into a new field entirely. In today\u2019s job market, unfortunately one bachelor\u2019s degree is often the minimum requirement. A second degree can demonstrate to employers that you have invested in&hellip;","protected":false},"author":90,"featured_media":23187,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[50472],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-23186","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-bachelors"},"acf":{"post_sub_title":"There are many reasons why people decide to return to school for another undergraduate degree. ","sprint_id":"","query_class":"Best {subject} {course type}","school_sft":"","parent_sft":"","school_privacy_policy":"","has_review":96,"is_sponser_post":"","is_guest_post":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Is Getting a Second Bachelor&#039;s Degree Worth It?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Thinking of getting a second bachelor&#039;s degree? 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Discover the pros and cons, the best schools to attend, financial aid options, and more.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107245178"},{"@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107324614"},{"@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107424076"},{"@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107502250"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/priscilla-du-preez-tQagUWpAx5k-unsplash.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/priscilla-du-preez-tQagUWpAx5k-unsplash.jpg","width":1000,"height":667,"caption":"A woman holding up two fingers."},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Bachelors","item":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/bachelors\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Getting a Second Bachelor\u2019s Degree"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/","name":"Career Karma","description":"Latest Coding Bootcamp News &amp; Career Hacks from Industry Insiders","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/5bd7a649d1ea55166b7884ed6648a87d","name":"Jacqueline Renouard","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/me_480-150x150.jpg","url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/me_480-150x150.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/me_480-150x150.jpg","caption":"Jacqueline Renouard"},"description":"Jacqueline is a writer at Career Karma, where she draws on her skills as a wordsmith to cover topics like higher education, technical skills, and occupations. After earning her BA in Television and Film Production from the University of Portsmouth, she worked for Wellbe, where she wrote extensively about health, wellness, and fitness. She joined the Career Karma team in September 2020, bringing expertise in digital marketing and content creation.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jacquelinerenouard\/"],"url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/author\/jacqueline-renouard\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107245178","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107245178","name":"How long does it take to get a second bachelor\u2019s degree?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Plan for about <strong>two to three years full time<\/strong> if you need <strong>~30+ new credits<\/strong>. Many schools require <strong>at least 30 credits in residence<\/strong> for a second bachelor\u2019s, while some fields offer <strong>accelerated second-degree options<\/strong> for students who have already met the prerequisites.<br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107324614","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107324614","name":"Does FAFSA pay for a second bachelor's degree?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<strong>FAFSA is the application<\/strong>, not the funding. With a prior bachelor\u2019s, you\u2019re generally <strong>not eligible for <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/grants\/pell\"><strong>Federal Pell Grants<\/strong><\/a>, except in a narrow case for certain <strong>post-baccalaureate teacher certification\/licensure programs<\/strong>. You <strong>may<\/strong> still be eligible for <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/understand-aid\/types\/loans\/subsidized-unsubsidized\"><strong>Direct Loans<\/strong><\/a> (up to any remaining <strong>undergraduate aggregate limits<\/strong>) and, depending on need and school funding, <a href=\"https:\/\/studentaid.gov\/help-center\/answers\/article\/federal-work-study\"><strong>Federal Work-Study<\/strong><\/a>.<br\/>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107424076","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107424076","name":"Can you get two bachelor's degrees from different schools?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. If your first degree is from an <strong>accredited institution<\/strong> and the second school <strong>admits post-baccalaureate students<\/strong>, you can pursue a second bachelor\u2019s there\u2014subject to the school\u2019s policy (commonly a <strong>minimum residency of 30 new credits<\/strong> and completion of the new major\u2019s requirements).","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107502250","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/second-bachelors-degree\/#faq-question-1604107502250","name":"Can you get two bachelor\u2019s degrees at the same time?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Often, yes, through a <strong>dual-degree<\/strong> program (two separate degrees), which is different from a <strong>double major<\/strong> (one degree with two majors). Dual degrees typically require <strong>more total credits<\/strong> than a double major.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23186","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/90"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23186"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23186\/revisions"}],"acf:user":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/96"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23187"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23186"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23186"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/careerkarma.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23186"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}