<p>I’m looking to double major in International Relations and either a language or history/philosophy. I was reading the course options on the BU website, and I noticed that you can take a “joint major” in French and philosophy. Would this be like a double major, or would it be more like one major. If it is similar to the requirements of that of one major, would it be “wise” to do that joint major and a major in IR as a double major or is that too much work? Hope this question isn’t too confusing haha.</p>
<p>also what are the language requirements for an IR major? Would i need to major in the French language to become fluent if I’m already proficient in French?</p>
<p>BU double major Alum here. I was not IR though, so I recommend you speak to the undergraduate advisor. Be prepared to hear some silly things (I know a person who was told she would have no friends if she double majored).</p>
<p>BU has three types of “double major”</p>
<p>First is BUCOP, two majors, two schools. two degrees.</p>
<p>Second is “joint program”. Joint program are a selection of pre-made “double majors.” I put “double majors” in quotes because you do not do the coursework required of two majors and two concentrations are not listed on you degree. Joint programs are limited in options, if one does not exist between the two desired majors you MUST double major.</p>
<p>Leads to double major. At BU a double major is when you complete all the requirements (12+ courses) for each major alongside your CAS requirements. BU does allow up to 5 classes to overlap. Keep in mind some majors only allow fewer (when I was in school art history only allowed 2 overlaps, leading me to take 25 courses to complete my double major not including CAS requirements). Also be aware some majors do not overlap (say a hard science and religion).</p>
<p>Your second post. I am not aware of IR having special requirements for languages beyond the CAS requirments of a 4th level course. If you are already proficient expect 1 semester (every one except native/fluent speakers need to take 1 semester). As for gaining fluency, it is universally agreed that living abroad is the best way to become fluent. This is why language majors require time abroad. Keep in mind, double majors limit study abroad opportunities (I could not go abroad and finish my degrees in 4 years). I am not saying you cannot do both. I am saying that double majoring requires careful planning if you hope to finish in 4 years. Also expect to overload (take 5 classes in 1 semester) or take classes in the summer. I personally recommend overloading if you have a GPA over 3.0. BU lets you take those extra 2 credits for free after your Frosh year. Your senior year anyone can take 2 extra credits for free regardless of GPA.</p>
<p>My final advice: do your hw. Go online and see the course requirements for both majors. See if an overlap exists. Take into consideration how often a class is taught and how popular it is. Then consider the additional things you need/want to do, like study abroad, work or hold an internship. Then go talk to someone at BOTH majors. They might be helpful, they might try to talk you out of it. Also expect each person to have no idea what the requirements are for the other major. This is why you should know the requirements beforehand. </p>
<p>Double majoring is often not easy. But I think it is well off the work and recommend it if you have the time</p>
<p>If you want to do a double major, it shouldn’t be an issue as long as you start planning early. AP credits help a lot. Also, BA/MA is a good alternative if you’re just looking to get more out of your 4 years at BU.</p>