Hard-earned satisfaction? You betcha!

Some experts believe the dual degree pads your résumé and wallet. Shawn Graham, associate director of MBA Career Services at Kenan-Flagler, says increased negotiating power is another benefit to having a dual degree. Though there isn't information indicating that dual-degree earners have higher starting salaries than single MBAs, Graham knows that at least one Kenan-Flagler JD/MBA used his dual degree to convince his employer to top his original salary offer.

A dual degree can show a job candidate is dedicated, driven, and smart. Having a joint degree is proof of intellectual curiosity, says George Meng, Microsoft's (MSFT ) director of college and MBA staffing. "Since joint-degree programs are rigorous, a dual degree may be indicative of a candidate's high academic caliber, which is something we consider," Meng explains (see BW Online, 9/27/05, "Microsoft: Khakis and Brainteasers").

But having two degrees doesn't automatically get you a job. Meng also says getting hired depends on many variables, including the candidate's experiences and achievements, the position for which he's applying, and the two degrees earned.

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