What is a double degree? What is a parallel degree?

What is a parallel degree? How is it different from a double degree?

"Double degrees" and "parallel degrees" are similar in that they allow you to obtain two degrees, one from an overseas university and one from a university you are affiliated with in Japan. The main difference is whether or not studying abroad is required. Our university's "Parallel Degree Program with University of London" allows you to obtain degrees from two universities by studying University of London subjects and taking exams at our university (Tokyo) for four years without studying abroad.

The advantage of a "parallel degree" is that it is less expensive than a "double degree" because it does not involve studying abroad. Furthermore, the University of London program is a highly reputed program with over 50,000 students from over 180 countries. Another advantage is that you can complete this program consistently over a period of four years.*

*Classes will be conducted in English according to the course outline provided by University of London (LSE).

Parallel Degree Programs	Double Degree Program
Study abroad
There's no need to study abroad. If you wish to study abroad for a year, there are two options (selection is required). 1) Study abroad at SIM (Singapore Institute of Management) in Singapore in your third year. 2) Study abroad at LSE in London in your fourth year. The General Course. For short-term study abroad programs of three weeks, there is the opportunity to study at the LSE Summer School in London (however, selection is required).	You will need to study abroad for one to two years. Tuition fees apply.
Tuition Fee
Paid to Musashi University and University of London. Tuition fees at the University of London for four years (however, scholarships are available).	In many cases, you only need to pay tuition fees at the Japanese university you are enrolled at.
Courses
4 subjects per year x 4 years = 16 subjects from the University of London. Classes are taught by Musashi University faculty members (including foreign faculty members).	The subjects taken while studying abroad are considered subjects at the study abroad institution.
Grading
The four IFP subjects are written, marked and graded by the University of London, while the 12 BSc subjects are written, marked and graded by the London School of Economics (LSE). The University of London subject examinations are conducted by the British Council in Japan.	The courses taken while studying abroad will be graded by the host institution. Grades for courses taken in Japan will be given by Japanese universities.

Comparing the process of obtaining a parallel degree and a double degree

Musashi University Graduation Deferral System

Faculty