College of General Studies: Build your Pathway to a BU Degree

Upon completion of the College of General Studies (CGS) program, students are guaranteed continuation to the school or college of their choosing. Below are some academic resources that will help you envision your pathway to a Boston University degree.

 
Gap Semester

Your gap semester is a time of infinite possibilities. We’re here to help you make the most out of it. If you’re interested in participating in a gap semester program next fall, review this list of programs, associations, and consultants to help narrow your choices. This list includes known programs with a reputation of providing an interesting and educational experience to students.

 
CGS Curriculum

The College of General Studies is a two-year program comprised of courses in rhetoric (writing), natural science, humanities, and social sciences. CGS students are required to complete:

• Two rhetoric courses in the first year
• Two natural science courses in the sophomore year
• Three humanities courses during the two year-program
• Three social sciences courses during the two-year program

Please refer to the CGS Curriculum Guide for more information on each course.

 
Academic Pathways

The Academic Pathways page on the CGS website is a collection of example four-year plans that illustrate a typical pathway into various degree programs at BU. The sample pathways listed here will help you visualize how your major requirements fit with the CGS curriculum. Please note that the majors listed on this page represent many, but not all, of the majors offered at Boston University. To view all degree programs offered at BU, please refer to the University Bulletin.

 
Questions?

If you have academic questions, please feel welcome to email the College of General Studies Student Services team at cgs@bu.edu. Students are also welcome to schedule a one-on-one academic advising information session with Matthew Bae, Director of Student Services and Academic Advising.