London College of General Studies Program in the Natural Sciences (Summer)

BU Study Abroad, in conjunction with the College of General Studies (CGS), offers a unique program for students interested in the natural sciences.

Program Curriculum

The coursework provides a hands-on historical approach to the acquisition of knowledge in the sciences. Museums and historical sites in and around London complement the coursework.

Required Courses

Students in enroll in these courses:

CGS NS 299: The Historical Foundation of the Physical Sciences: Time, Motion, and Matter (4 credits)

This course examines the development of our understanding of time, motion, and matter. The course begins with a review of historical observational astronomy concentrating on observations of motion and the use of astronomical data by ancient civilizations. Additional topics covered include the concept of longitude and time keeping, Newtonian mechanics, the structure of matter, and an introduction to structural geology. The course will include lectures, discussions of readings, museum visits, computer-assisted laboratory assignments, and fieldwork. Visits may include Stonehenge, Avebury, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the Geological Society of London, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, and the Bath area. Syllabus

CGS NS 300: The Historical Foundation of the Biological Sciences: Diversity, Taxonomy, and Evolution (4)

This course examines the historical development of the Darwinian Revolution in biology. The course will initially examine pioneering work in taxonomy conducted by John Ray and Carolus Linnaeus. Linnaeus, although a Swedish botanist, was a phenomenon in England in the 1700s, and he stimulated British scientists to actively document the biological diversity that was being discovered throughout the world. The cataloging of biological diversity was enhanced by and also stimulated the growth and development of the British Empire. The ideas developed from taxonomy will support the exploration of Darwin’s theory of evolution by means of natural selection. The course will consist of lectures, discussions of readings, museum visits, and fieldwork. Visits may include Kew Gardens, the Chelsea Physic Garden, Cambridge and Oxford Universities, the Museum of Natural History, and Down House (Darwin’s home). Syllabus

Program Details

Requirements
Program Dates
  • Summer Term: July 2 to August 11, 2012
    • Depart U.S.: TBD
    • Arrival in London: July 2, 2012 (Housing check-in by noon)
    • Program End: August 11, 2012
    • Depart England: TBD
Cost
  • Summer 2012 Tuition & Fees: $8,200

Cost includes tuition, housing, field trips, and emergency travel assistance coverage. The cost for Summer 2013 has not yet been announced and will be subject to approval by the Board of Trustees at Boston University. Additional expenses for the summer. Financial aid is available. BU Study Abroad arranges a trans-Atlantic group flight that is not included in the program fee. We recommend that students take this flight.
Credits
  • Upon successful completion of the program, students earn eight Boston University credits. All students must complete the eight-credit program.
Housing
  • Students live in shared suites in Boston University’s own housing. All housing is within walking distance of the BU London Academic Center. Suites vary in size (from 2 to 13 occupants), configuration, and style of decoration, but most consist of shared bedrooms with Internet access, shower room, and a kitchen/common area.
Application Deadlines
  • Summer Term: December 1, 2011

You will be notified of your status no later than January 19, 2011.

Download a description of the London College of General Studies Natural Sciences Program.

Program Faculty & Staff

All Boston University London programs are administered in coordination with our Boston and London offices. In Boston a program manager facilitates the admissions and pre-departure procedures and maintains contact with students prior to their arrival in London. The Boston office also houses administrative personnel who are responsible for everyday operations. In London the staff comprises a resident director as well as administrative, academic, and housing personnel.

Faculty & Staff Profiles

Amber Thacher, Program Manager

Overseas Staff

Faculty

Ready to go abroad? Apply now!