In our Engineering Dual Degree Program, you’ll earn two degrees in five years: a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science from Wheaton and a professionally accredited Bachelor of Engineering (BE) from Dartmouth College.
Unlike traditional engineering programs where you have to pick your path right away, Wheaton gives you the flexibility to explore options. You’ll build a strong foundation in math and science while evaluating the human impact of engineering. You’ll also work with a Career Navigator to help you choose a specialization that excites you.
When you transition to Dartmouth, you’ll be ready to pursue high-level technical training in Dartmouth’s world-class labs with a clear sense of purpose.
How Does the Dual Degree Program Work?
The Engineering Dual-Degree Program is a 5-year model, integrating Wheaton’s broad exploration with Dartmouth’s technical rigor.
- Year 1: Wheaton
Dive into math and science courses across engineering disciplines, explore your interests across the liberal arts, and receive 1:1 advising and career mentorship - Year 2: Wheaton
Continue courses in your major, gain experience through a funded internship, and submit your application to the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth - Year 3: Dartmouth
Spend your junior year fully immersed in the engineering community at Dartmouth, living on campus and taking core engineering labs - Year 4: Wheaton
Return to Wheaton to finish your major requirements, graduate with your class, and earn your Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Year 5: Dartmouth
Return to Dartmouth for your final year of technical specialization to earn your Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.)
Prepare to Lead
Our program leads to specialized engineering skills that will set you apart in the industry. Beyond technical mastery, you’ll develop the human-centered perspective that AI lacks—the ability to confidently lead teams and design transformative innovations that are ethically, socially and environmentally sound.
Liberal Arts Breadth
- Expert Instruction: Master math and science skills in small classes led by faculty with advanced degrees and industry experience
- Hands-on Innovation: Prototype and test your ideas in our innovative Makerspace and Fab Lab
- Career Exploration: Partner with a dedicated mentor in our Life and Career Design Institute to translate your ambitions into a professional roadmap
Ivy League Distinction
- Accredited Excellence: Earn a professional degree accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Elite Research: Conduct world-class research in Dartmouth’s state-of-the-art laboratories
- Professional Network: Access engineering career fairs, Ivy League networking opportunities and graduate school application assistance
Required Courses
The following courses are recommended to prepare you for the rigor of Dartmouth. You may also require additional math, science, and computer courses depending on the type of engineering you plan to pursue.
- Introductory Physics
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Calculus I and Calculus II
- Multivariable Calculus
- Differential Equations
- Linear Algebra
- Computer Programming
AP credits may be used to replace some of these courses. However, it’s best to complete them at Wheaton as Dartmouth will not ask for your high school transcript. Transfer credits from another accredited institution may also count toward these recommended courses.
Related Programs
Whether you want to design sustainable cities or create new medical technology, we’ll help you align your Wheaton major with your technical interests.
| Engineering Pathway | Wheaton Major |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineering | Physics |
| Mechanical Engineering | Physics |
| Chemical Engineering | Physics |
| Biomedical Engineering | Physics and Biology |
| Environmental Engineering | Physics, Chemistry, Math or Biology |
| Computer Engineering | Computer Science |
| Chemical or Biochemical Engineering | Chemistry or Biology |
Dual Degree Financial Aid
Wheaton offers generous merit- and need-based aid making a combined liberal arts and Ivy League education accessible.
- Years 1 and 2 (Wheaton): Apply your Wheaton financial aid package
- Year 3 (Dartmouth): Wheaton provides a grant that can be applied to the Dartmouth year tuition
- Year 4 (Wheaton): Return to Wheaton with your Wheaton aid package
- Year 5 (Dartmouth): Receive financial aid directly from Dartmouth
How to Apply
While there is no formal enrollment process for the Engineering Dual Degree Program at Wheaton, it is best to notify your advisor of your interest early on. This ensures your course schedule aligns with Dartmouth’s strict prerequisites. Then, you will officially apply to the Thayer School of Engineering during the winter break of your sophomore year. While admission decisions are made exclusively by Dartmouth, we’ll help you navigate the requirements and craft a competitive application.