I started at the College of Arts and Sciences at Boston University without declaring a major. Picking a field of study has been surprisingly difficult. In high school, I studied what seemed like everything—regardless of whether I wanted to. And while I hated taking Physics with every fiber of my being, the merit of that system is that now, I have some semblance of what I do and do not like. However, there are so many majors, many of which high school didn’t cover. Not only that, but a lot of them are incredibly similar—or at least seem to be. So, I have decided to officially research 22 majors to see what they are all about.
Archaeology vs. Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of human life from an evolutionary perspective through four distinct branches: cultural, linguistic, archeological, and biological. Archaeology is a more concentrated branch of Anthropology concerned with the study of human history through the excavation and analysis of artifacts and other physical remains.
Biology vs. Chemistry vs. Biochemistry
Biology is the study of living organisms, whereas chemistry is the study of the substances that make up mass. Biochemistry is the study of life through the study of chemical processes.
Classical Studies vs. History vs. History of Art
History is the study of the past through any available means. History of Art is the study of history through art or architecture. Classical Studies is the study of exclusively ancient Greek and Latin literature, philosophy and history.
Earth Sciences vs. Geography
Earth Science is the study of the physical Earth. Geography is the study of the physical features of Earth: the atmosphere, the environment, and human activity.
Economics vs. International Relations vs. Political Science
Economics is the study of the production, consumption, and transfer of wealth. Political Science is the study of political activity and behavior. International Relations, a branch of Political Science, is the study of the interaction of global political systems through theories with roots in economics and history.
English vs. Comparative Literature
English majors study literature written in the English language while Comparative Literature majors study literature written in two or more languages.
Romance Studies vs. Modern Languages vs. Linguistics
Linguistics is the study of language and its structure. Romance Studies majors study the language and literature of one or more of the romance languages: Spanish, French, Italian, and/or Portuguese. Modern Language is similar to Romance Studies, but it includes other languages, such as: Arabic, Chinese, German, Hebrew, Japanese, Korean, or Russian.
Philosophy vs. Sociology vs. Psychology vs. Neuroscience
Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. Sociology is the study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society. Psychology is the study of the human mind and its functions. Neuroscience is the scientific study of the nervous system and brain.
While it may seem like there are an overwhelming number of majors to choose from, it is important to remember that each one is distinct. If you happen to be undecided, I hope this list provides some insight into what your options are here at BU!