Course Planning Resource for the Ivey HBA Dual Degree Program
An academic planning guide for students pursuing a combined Ivey HBA and second degree at Western University. Map your prerequisites, build your five-year schedule, and connect with your program advisors.
Choose your second degree
Each program combines the full Ivey HBA with a specialized second degree over 5 years.
Dual Degree vs Sequential Degree
Two questions that separate dual degree candidates from sequential degree candidates.
Do you want to pursue a master's or graduate degree in the future?
If yes - a combined degree establishes the academic depth and specialization that graduate programs look for alongside a business credential. The dual degree positions you for both professional roles and further study.
Do you want to complete an independent research thesis?
If yes - many dual degree programs include an Honours thesis or capstone research project. This is valued by graduate schools, research institutions, and employers in technical and analytical fields.
- →One degree in 5 years instead of pursuing both separately
- →Academic depth in your specialization alongside HBA credentials
- →Thesis or research pathway available in most streams
- →Strong positioning for graduate programs and specialized roles
- →Complete HBA first, then pursue a second degree afterward
- →More flexibility - no pre-commitment to a second discipline
- →Lighter course load during the HBA years
- →Still achieves two degrees - just across separate programs
Dual degree directors
The HBAA dual degree team - your point of contact for questions about the combined degree experience.
Course planning
Check your prerequisites, map your 5-year schedule, and assess if dual degree is right for you.
Contact & advising directory
Reach the right office for your dual degree questions - career support, academic advising, and department contacts.
Ivey Academic Advisors
Reach out directly to your advisor - they are your primary point of contact for dual degree planning, course load questions, and academic support.
Department directory
Contact the relevant Western department for second-degree advising, course registration, and program requirements.