A double major is different from a double degree. A double major represents the completion of work in two academic majors, but for one degree. For example, a student majoring in Graphic Design and Industrial Design will receive only one BFA degree/diploma.

It is rare for a student to double major at RISD due to the amount of extra work involved, usually requiring at least one additional year of study or more. The minimum credit requirement for a double major is 168 credits.

To pursue a double major, students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA to be considered. First-year students are not eligible for a double major since they have not started a specific major. Students interested in pursuing two majors should first consult with their academic advisor in their current department, and, with their advisor or Department Head's assistance, develop a proposal that includes a rationale for pursuit of a double major. The student must then meet with both major Department Heads to create a detailed plan for meeting degree requirements in both departments throughout their academic career at RISD.  Students are also required to submit a 'Secondary Major' form, available on the Registrar's Office website.

Both Department Heads must approve the declaration by signing off on the Secondary Major form, which should include the student's proposed plan. The approval process may begin as early as the first semester of sophomore year, once the student has started courses in their major, and cannot begin after the first semester of junior year. Students who have declared a major but have not officially started coursework in the department are ineligible to apply for a double major.

One major will be designated “primary” and the other “secondary.” Students generally pursue both majors simultaneously rather than sequentially, hence the intention to double major must be declared by the middle of the junior year. Both majors must be completed before the degree can be earned unless the student formally withdraws their double major declaration by written notice to the Registrar’s Office.

See below for an example of a double-major schedule (this is a general schedule only and will vary depending on which combinations of majors are being pursued):

Double majors who receive financial aid must seek counseling from Student Financial Services, particularly in regard to aid eligibility in the fifth year and beyond.

In order to double major, a student must take the maximum allowable Wintersession credits (6) twice.

All Non-Major Studio Electives requirements are waived for students pursuing a double major.

Upon graduation, both majors will appear on the official transcript (though only one degree is conferred).