The Ins and Outs of BU's College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

The Ins and Outs of BU's College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) is part of the academic landscape at Boston University (BU) in Boston, Massachusetts. This guide provides perspective from students and alumni who have navigated these programs firsthand.

CAS has over 40 majors and 50 minors across humanities, sciences, social sciences, and more—making it Boston University's largest college and the academic foundation of the institution.

Most CAS students spend their time across Mugar Memorial Library and the George Sherman Union, juggling coursework, research projects, and the kind of conversations that run late into the night. The college draws people interested in everything from philosophy to biology to creative writing, and the mix shapes what the experience feels like day-to-day.

The payoff isn't just a degree. It's the chance to dig deep into what actually interests you, build relationships with faculty and peers who think differently than you do, and figure out what you want to do after graduation—or at least get closer to that answer.

One of the biggest draws of CAS is the sheer breadth of academic programs on offer. With over 40 majors and 50 minors, you'll have the freedom to tailor your education to your unique interests and goals.

Some of the most popular CAS majors include:

• Biology
• Economics
• Political Science
• Psychology
• English
• History
• Mathematics
• Computer Science

But don't let that list limit your possibilities - CAS also offers lesser-known but equally engaging programs like Archaeology, Neuroscience, and even Classics. And if you're still undecided, the University's flexible core curriculum allows you to explore a wide range of subjects before declaring a major.

No matter what path you choose, you can expect small class sizes, engaging discussions, and close collaboration with renowned faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields. CAS professors are not only brilliant scholars, but also dedicated mentors who are invested in your academic and personal growth.

Beyond the classroom, CAS students have access to a wealth of hands-on learning opportunities that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. These include:

• Undergraduate research: Work alongside faculty on cutting-edge projects and make valuable contributions to your field of study.
• Internships: Gain practical experience and make important professional connections through internships in Boston and beyond.
• Study abroad: Immerse yourself in different cultures and gain a global perspective through CAS-approved study abroad programs.
• Student organizations: Get involved in one of the many CAS-specific clubs and organizations, from the Economics Society to the Psychology Club.
• Honors programs: High-achieving students can challenge themselves academically through rigorous honors programs like the University Professors Program.

By taking advantage of these opportunities, CAS students develop the critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills that employers and graduate schools value most. Plus, the connections you make and the experiences you have will shape your personal and professional journey long after graduation.

While CAS may be the intellectual heart of BU, it's also a vibrant community where students form lasting bonds and memories. From the iconic Marsh Plaza to the cozy study nooks of Mugar, CAS students can be found collaborating, socializing, and supporting one another.

One of the best ways to get involved is by joining a CAS-specific club or organization. These groups offer a chance to explore your interests, build leadership skills, and connect with like-minded peers. Some popular options include the CAS Student Government, the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP), and the Peer Mentor Program.

CAS students also have access to a range of support services, from academic advising to career counseling, to help them navigate their college journey. And with the resources of the entire BU community at their fingertips, Terriers in CAS can truly make the most of their undergraduate experience.

As a current CAS student, here are my top tips for thriving in this dynamic college:

• Embrace the flexibility: Don't be afraid to explore different subjects and disciplines before declaring a major. CAS's core curriculum allows you to sample a wide range of courses.
• Get to know your professors: Building strong relationships with your instructors can open doors to research opportunities, internships, and valuable mentorship.
• Seek out hands-on experiences: Take advantage of internships, study abroad programs, and undergraduate research to complement your classroom learning.
• Get involved on campus: Join CAS-specific clubs and organizations to expand your social network, develop leadership skills, and make the most of your BU experience.
• Utilize campus resources: From academic advising to career counseling, CAS students have access to a wealth of support services to help them succeed.
• Stay organized and focused: With so many opportunities available, it's important to stay on top of your coursework and manage your time effectively.

Don't just take our word for it - hear from current CAS students about their experiences:

'CAS has provided me with the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. I've been able to explore my academic interests while also developing valuable career-ready skills.' - Emma, '23, Psychology major

'The small class sizes and accessible professors in CAS have been instrumental to my learning. I feel like I'm part of a close-knit community where my voice is heard.' - Javier, '24, Economics major

'Joining the CAS Student Government has been a highlight of my time at BU. It's given me the chance to make a real impact on my college experience and the experiences of my fellow Terriers.' - Samantha, '25, International Relations major

'The undergraduate research opportunities in CAS have been life-changing. I'm proud to be contributing to cutting-edge work in my field while gaining invaluable hands-on experience.' - Aiden, '23, Biology major

The Hub curriculum at BU is more flexible than it first appears. With strategic planning, you can satisfy multiple requirements with single courses—but this requires understanding the system early.

When evaluating The Ins and Outs of BU's College of Arts & Sciences (CAS), BU students should weigh both the benefits and constraints. No option is perfect for everyone—the right choice depends on your specific priorities, circumstances, and what tradeoffs you're willing to accept.