<p>I will be a senior this year, and I am hoping to attend USC next year. I will be applying as a biology major, but I might want to double major in biology and astronomy. I was wondering how difficult this would be if I decided to double major after first semester. I am hoping to go to graduate school after college to get my PhD, so I was wondering if this would be feasible, since I will need time to do research. Also, with this double major, would I be able to graduate on time? Thanks for the help!</p>
<p>Most students who double major that aren’t in BFA or 5 year programs finish in 4 years. You would have to look at USC’s catalog to see how many units each major entails after GE coursework is finished.</p>
<p>Thanks for the help! Anyone else?</p>
<p>First off, I am a pre-law student, so what I’m about to say about these science majors may very well be wrong.</p>
<p>Most people who double major can finish in 4 years, but I’m not sure about you and your scenario. Briefly skimming over the requirements for Biology and Astronomy, I noticed that both majors have significantly long lists of requirements. I also noticed that the Bachelor of Science versions of the majors have more requirements than their Bachelor of Arts counterparts (I don’t know whether or not a B.S. would be better for future Ph.D studies than a B.A.). If it is possible to take the usual 4 classes per semester and finish both majors on time, then your schedule will definitely be pretty tight and allow for few, if any, electives. If it is not possible, then you still might be able to finish on time if you take 20 units a couple of semesters, fit in a couple of summer classes, or bump one of the majors down to a minor.</p>
<p>Keep in mind that I did not take into account the courses that transfer from high school or the overlapping courses which fulfill requirements for both majors; these types of courses might enable you to complete both majors in 4 years. I recommend that you contact one of the advisers for either major to find out if you can finish a double major in Biology and Astronomy on time.</p>
<p>OP, all double majors must wait until second semester Freshman year to register their second major–so you will not be behind due to making that decision first semester. Since there are other required courses (GEs, writing), there is more than enough to keep you busy first semester. </p>
<p>I would agree with Saitsuzan above about calling the Bio department at USC and asking to speak to the academic adviser there. They would have good information on how easy (or not) it is to double major with Astronomy and how well it’s worked in the past for other students.</p>
<p>OP-- here is a link to the USC catalogue of classes for the upcoming year. It shows the requirements for the major/minor degree as well.</p>
<p>[USC</a> Catalogue, 2011-2012](<a href=“http://www.usc.edu/dept/publications/cat2011/]USC”>http://www.usc.edu/dept/publications/cat2011/)</p>
<p>thanks!!!</p>