DUAL DEGREE PROGRAMS
Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by a dual degree program and why should it interest me?

Lawrence Tech’s dual degree program combines the critical core subjects of two distinctive master’s programs designed to position the student for lifetime professional growth. In their MBA program, students will learn the concepts critical to their success as tomorrow’s leaders and managers. In their Master of Science program, student learning will focus on what mangers need to know about technology. This mergence of sound business practices with state of the art technology provides the graduate with greater career versatility.  The dual degree program is also ideal for the next generation of entrepreneurs whose success is contingent not only upon their knowledge of technology, but also their ability to manage and strategize. Upon the successful completion of the coursework, a student will be awarded two graduate degrees from LTU with real market power that will provide them the best opportunity to advance in their careers.

Would I receive one or two diplomas?

You will receive two diplomas, one from each program upon completion of the dual degree program requirements.

When must I declare that I am pursuing the dual degree?

You can declare at any point during your Master’s studies. However, we recommend that you declare as early as possible, preferably at the beginning of your studies at LTU. By doing so, you can take full advantage of the efficient plan of work offered by the dual degree program.

Who would be my academic advisor?

If both degrees are taken within the College of Management, you will be appointed an academic advisor from the COM.  If you are taking two degrees from two different colleges within the university, each college will assign an academic advisor to you.

As LTU alumni, can I get a second degree under the dual degree option?

Yes. The opportunity to get a second degree is open to LTU alumni who have received one the following degrees: MSIS, MBA, MSOM, MSIO, MEM, and MSMS, MAE, and MA.  This list may be expanded at a later date.  However, because of rapidly changing knowledge in most fields, graduate degrees obtained more than seven years ago will only be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

If my first master’s degree was not from LTU, can I earn my second master’s at LTU under the dual degree program?

Sorry, no. However, you can transfer in from nine to twelve master’s credits toward your second degree if your grades were B or better and your first degree was from an accredited college within the seven year limit.

What is the difference between getting a second degree by transferring in credits from a previous master’s program versus being in the dual degree program?

The total required number of credit hours is less for the dual degree program than for the total of the two separate programs. The dual degree program will have fewer electives.  In either case, two diplomas will be awarded.

Are there pre-core or prerequisite requirements in the dual degree program?

Yes. Unless you are waived from pre-core because of work experience or prior coursework, all pre-core and prerequisite requirements must satisfied.  Pre-core is necessary to ensure that you will be able to successfully complete the program. 

How many credits will the pre-core/prerequisite requirements add to my total credits?

That depends on how many of the pre-core requirements you will be excused from having to complete. This will be determined in consultation with an academic advisor.

Does everyone in the dual degree program write a thesis?

No. There is a choice between writing a 4-credit thesis and taking two 3-credit electives.

What is the advantage of writing a thesis?

Writing a thesis gives the student the opportunity to integrate the knowledge from the two programs into an in-depth study. Some students will be interested in pursuing a doctorate degree. A thesis helps prepare students for this advanced academic work. The combined number of total required credit hours is slightly less for those who choose to write a thesis.

What if I am unable to complete the dual degree program?

You can be awarded the degree for which you have completely finished the requirements.