The landscape of higher education is undergoing a significant transformation with the growing popularity of dual-degree among Gen Z students. College Vidya recently conducted a survey with over 5000 students to understand the preference for online education, particularly when it comes to dual-degree offerings in AI, ML, CS, IT, and Commerce. The survey also sheds light on the evolving educational aspirations of today’s youth and their desire for comprehensive skill development.

The survey highlights that 74% of learners perceive the quality of online education as superior to traditional classroom settings, and out of this 62% of learners are already enrolled in online courses. This shift towards online learning is driven by factors such as access to a wider range of courses, garnering 34% of students’ responses. On the other hand, 29% of respondents prefer flexibility in scheduling, while 27% of students prefer online education for the ability to learn at their own pace (27%).

The survey also reveals that 40% of students are interested in pursuing dual degrees at the same time as online education offers them flexibility in learning, while 32% appreciate access to a broader range of courses while opting for two degrees at once. Interestingly, 38% believe that there are enhanced career prospects, and 42% responded that there is a broader skill set development scope if they take up two degrees at once, which makes dual degrees an attractive option for today’s students.

When it comes to subject preferences, the survey highlights a particular inclination towards dual-degree primarily from commerce and science streams, with a notable interest in fields such as Computer Science, IT, and AI & ML. These programs attract students who wish to upskill in related or unrelated areas, pursue academically comprehensive degrees alongside professional qualifications, or create robust backup options for their future careers.

Sharing his insights on the latest findings, the spokesperson of College Vidya said, “Our recent survey reflects a shift in how Gen Z students approach higher education. Students today are seeking educational experiences that not just impart academic knowledge but also equip them with practical, industry-relevant skills. Dual degrees offer a unique opportunity to seamlessly blend theoretical and applied learning, preparing students for the dynamic demands of the modern workforce.”

“Our platform has witnessed a remarkable increase in demand for dual-degree programs, with 14.6% of students currently pursuing a regular degree also looking to take up an online degree in a domain of their interest. We believe that this trend reflects a growing recognition of the benefits that dual degrees offer, including enhanced career prospects, a broader skill set development, and greater flexibility in learning.”, he added.

The introduction of dual-degree programs is further supported by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which actively promotes such initiatives to help students upgrade their educational experiences. Combining related subjects or specializations from the same discipline allows for an integrated and advanced education. At the same time, students have the option to explore unrelated fields if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, among other Tier I cities, are among the top-performing cities where students are opting for dual degrees. Following the trends observed over the past three years, the demand for these programs is expected to grow further in the coming years.

As the demand for comprehensive and flexible educational pathways continues to rise, institutions like College Vidya play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education that aligns with the aspirations of Gen Z students.