Develop a New Dual Degree Program 

Dual Degree Programs (in-person or online) are two sequential or concurrent degrees cooperatively offered by two units at Rutgers or a Rutgers unit and another institution—with minimal amount of shared coursework. When degrees are at two different levels, the last year of the lower degree program often coincides with the first year of the higher degree program. For example, JD/MBA, MD/PhD, MPP/MPH, BA/EdM. For the purposes of this review, “dual degrees” also include programs such as 4 + 1 programs and “accelerated” programs.  (Note: If you are seeking to create a different type of cooperative academic program, please select the appropriate form from the Academic Program and Organization Approvals webpage.)  A dual degree program may only be created from two existing programs. If one or both of the programs are not in existence, the process to develop a new degree program must be followed.

Online Programs
We are all committed to high-quality online programs, and we have expertise in the Office of University Online Education Services (UOES) who can assist you in meeting that goal. If units are proposing an online academic program, they are encouraged to reach out to UOES for consultation and guidance at questions@uoes.rutgers.edu. More detailed information about the different forms of modality can be found on the Academic Program and Organization Approvals FAQ webpage.

Key Steps and Required Approvals

1. Initial Approval by Chancellor-led Unit (CLU): The academic unit must first secure initial approval from their CLU. Contact your Provost’s Office for guidance.

2. Notice of Intent (NOI): Please note that for proposed dual degree programs between a Rutgers unit and another institution, the chancellor or their designee must complete an NOI, via the NOI system once preliminary approval has been granted. An NOI is not required for a proposed dual degree program to be created from existing programs offered by two units at Rutgers.

3. Complete and Submit the Request Form to Create a Dual Degree Program to your Provost’s Office for final approval before submitting it to the Office of Academic Planning.

4. University Level Review and Approval

   • Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

   • President

   • Board of Governors Committee on Academic and Student Affairs (Information Item)

   • Board of Governors (Information Item)

   • Middle States Commission on Higher Education, if necessary

Upon final approval, the Office of Academic Planning staff will notify relevant institutional stakeholders of the outcome.