Are dual degrees worth the extra money?

[aestas]

I plan to take mechanical engineering and my university also offers the option of completing a concurrent degree in any area I wish. However, this process will take 5 years as opposed to 4 meaning I'll have to pay tuition/rent/expenses for an extra year.

Would getting a mechanical + medical biophysics or mechanical + computer science be worth the extra money? Are there any combinations that will make me more employable? I wanted to take the material science option, but they canceled that program. I'm looking to a future of biomechanics, aerospace or forensics/failure analysis engineering in the future.

 

[BioCore]

I think a double degree in Mechanical and Medical BioPhysics would seeing as you will have a lot of background knowledge to use in medical situations and all. But then again I am not a professional and not sure. But I think a combination of those two could help you out a lot in finding a good job.

 

[aestas]

Thanks. Does anyone have any other suggestions? I'm going to a lesser-known engineering school so I'm hoping that the dual degree might help me in terms of employment.

 

[mgb_phys]

Probably not helpful in the strict sense of 'wow this person has a dual degree - hire him/pay him more'
If there is an area you are interested in and want to work in then the extra year to also specialise in that might be worthwhile - but look into an MSc as well.
In the job market: Single honours + specialist masters > double honours.

Other than getting your foot in the door I'm afraid your degree isn't worth much once you start work!

 

[aestas]

Thanks for the reply. Basically, I'm looking for it let me get my foot in the door as I'll be competing against the people who are going to more reputable universities (for my first job anyway). I do realize that in the real world, it doesn't really matter where you get your degree from or how many degrees you have, and you get hired based on experience.