<p>I'm looking for good schools to apply to, but I'm finding that my choices appear to be pretty limited with my criteria. So I was hoping some of you could suggest some to me. :)</p>
<p>The most important factor I'm looking for is a dual-degree option that includes music. I want to be able to get a B.M. in Percussion Performance in addition to a degree in the sciences, probably biology. It would be great if the school didn't make it a massive hassle, but as long as it's not impossible, it'll work. I've been finding that most schools are reluctant to allow a dual-degree involving music. I'm also looking for a campus that's relatively gay-friendly, although this is a much lower priority for me. Another thing I'm looking for is affordability, or at least the presence of merit scholarships. I'm in the top 1% of my class, have an SAT of 2310, and have made all-state band all through high school. So I have my fingers crossed for a scholarship. I'm not eligible for need-based aid, but my parents aren't helping me pay, so it's really not relevant.</p>
<p>Thanks for helping!</p>
<p>For each school that offers both majors:</p>
<p>A. Count up the courses / credits needed for the first major.
B. Count up the courses / credits needed for the second major that do not overlap with the first major.
C. Count up the breadth or general education requirements needed that are not fulfilled by the majors.</p>
<p>Add all of the above together, and subtract any courses or credits you do not have to take due to AP or other credit upon entry. If it is less than, equal to, or only slightly over the number of courses or credits needed to graduate, then doing the double major is theoretically possible.</p>
<p>As an aside, since it appears that your primary interest is music, why add a biology major? If it is for pre-med, then note that medical schools do not require a biology major – they just require the pre-med courses (which are several courses less than a full biology major). If it is for improved job and career prospects after graduation, be aware that biology (and chemistry) graduates have poor job and career prospects at the bachelor’s degree level – lots of pre-meds who majored in biology and did not get into medical school flood the job market. Among the sciences, those with better job and career prospects include applied math, physics, statistics, and computer science.</p>
<p>As far as merit scholarships go, they would likely be from low match or safety level schools relative to your academic record.</p>
<p>Check out Northwestern. They have a dual-degree program with music and liberal arts, and it is very easy to do dual majors. Check out Lawrence University as well, with the conservatory and strong science program.</p>
<p>Chaos, I don’t think that finding colleges that offer dual majors in music and sciences will be that difficult as long as you stay with BS/BA degree. Some conservatories allow other majors; others are restrictive. You’ll have more options if you stay with liberal arts.</p>
<p>Your biggest issue is (as you seem to know) money. Ask your parents to use an on-line calculator to get an estimate of how much need based aid you’re likely to get. Even if it’s not much, it’s a starting point.</p>
<p>I’d look at Emory, Grinnell and Rhodes. I don’t know anything about their music departments, but they seem to be generous in the merit area and have excellent sciences. </p>
<p>Small colleges especially always need musicians. Be sure to submit a music performance tape as a supplement to your application. </p>
<p>Are you male or female?</p>