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Undergraduate FAQs

Academic Programs

Student Government

What organizations and clubs can I join at Sargent College?

  • Sargent College Student Government
    The council is comprised of elected representatives from all classes and majors and works to promote activities and a strong sense of college unity. The council initiates social activities, lectures, community service, etc. The Council Office is on the fourth floor and they welcome students from all classes to participate. Heather Nicholson serves as advisor to the Student Council and Class Governments. The members of each Sargent class select four officers and ten to twelve representatives to sponsor various class events at the college. Fundraisers are held to support class activities. Class government representatives work in collaboration with Student Council. Elections are held annually.
  • Pi Theta Epsilon
    This is the Occupational Therapy honor society at BU Sargent College. For more information, contact Professor Karen Jacobs (kjacobs@bu.edu or 353-7516)
  • Dean’s Hosts:
    This is a group of students selected to volunteer their time to promote the goals of BU Sargent College. They give tours to prospective students and their families, participate in recruitment and open houses. Dean’s Hosts are chosen through an application process: students must have sophomore standing with a minimum 2.5 GPA to apply. Heather Nicholson is advisor to this program.
  • Peer Counselors:
    Peer Counselors offer study skills seminars, study guidelines/manuals for specific courses, registration parties in conjunction with faculty advising, pre-med information meetings, study abroad seminars and mentoring. This program matches up Peer Counselors with incoming freshmen and transfer students. Peer Counselors write to new students during the summer before the students arrive and the program continues throughout the first year with a variety of activities. These students are selected to serve as role models for incoming students and their peers, teaching the most effective way to make the most of the college experience. Students must have sophomore standing with a minimum 2.7 GPA to apply. Applications are available through the BU/SAR website: www.bu.edu/sargent. Deborah Claar and Heather Nicholson are the advisors to this program.
  • BU Sargent College Honor Society:
    This organization provides programming for all BU Sargent College students, faculty and staff. The group sponsors lectures and events for the Sargent College Community and works closely with the Alumni. Some of the annual events include Career Workshops, Professional Opportunities Abroad Seminars, Research Seminars, and a Lecture given by a Health Care Professional. There is an induction ceremony within the first month of the fall semester. Sargent juniors and seniors who have a GPA in the top 10% of their graduating class are invited to join the Honor Society and to attend the fall induction ceremony. Deborah Claar and Melanie Matthies are the advisors.
  • Alumni Association Events and Involvement:
    Alumni sponsor events open to students that cover a variety of health care opportunities and issues. They also sponsor specific receptions to welcome or congratulate students on their achievements. They co-sponsor or participate in student events such as the Rose Banquet, and Spirit Week and offer a barbecue for graduating seniors. Alumni will often offer services that are helpful to students – financial planning for the graduating student and alternative health care practice seminars to name a few.
  • Other:
    There are also professionally oriented clubs and associations that students can become involved with such as the Occupational Therapy Club, Health Sciences Club, National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association, to name a few. Contact the specific department for further information.

Academic Services

Where is the Academic Services Center located?

The Academic Services Center is located at:

Academic Services Center
635 Commonwealth Avenue
Sargent College
Room 207

What subjects can I minor in?

Minors are formal agreements, recognized by the Registrar’s Office, Sargent College and the school where the minor is housed. Heather Nicholson handles all applications for a minor. Not all programs at the University have an approved minor. Please note the following:

  1. Discuss the minor with an Academic Counselor (appointments scheduled through the Academic Services Center, SAR room 207. This will help you determine whether a specific minor fits your interest areas and will work within your chosen major coursework. Questions regarding the process for declaring a minor will be answered.
  2. Obtain your faculty advisor’s signature on the Minor Declaration Form and also from an advisor in your chosen minor.
  3. Return the form to the ASC office, Room 207 Sargent College. The minor will appear on your Student Link degree advice after the form is turned in with appropriate signatures.
  4. If all required coursework is completed before graduation, your minor will become a permanent part of your transcript. If you are missing any coursework to complete the minor, it will be removed from your record, and will not appear on your transcript.

FROM COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES (CAS):

  • African Studies
  • African-American Studies
  • African Language and Literature
  • American Studies
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Art History
  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Chinese
  • Classic Civilization
  • Computer Science
  • Earth Sciences
  • East Asian Studies
  • Economics
  • English
  • Environmental Sciences
  • European Literature
  • French
  • German
  • Geography
  • Hebrew
  • History
  • History and Philosophy of Science
  • Ibero-American Study
  • International Relations
  • Italian
  • Japanese Language and Literature
  • Judaic Studies
  • Latin
  • Latin American Studies
  • Linguistics
  • Mathematics
  • Medieval Studies
  • Modern Greek Studies
  • Myth Studies
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Religion
  • Russian and Eastern European Studies
  • Sociology
  • Spanish
  • Statistics
  • Women’s Studies

FROM SARGENT COLLEGE:

  • Human Physiology
  • Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences
  • Public Health

FROM SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT (SMG):

  • Business Administration & Management

FROM SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS (SFA):

  • Dance
  • Music
  • Theatre
  • Visual Arts

FROM SCHOOL OF EDUCATION (SED):

  • Deaf Studies
  • General Education
  • Physical Education, Health Education and Coaching

Am I allowed to double major?

Currently, students can pursue two undergraduate degrees in separate schools through the Boston University Dual Degree Program (DDP) or double majors within a school. Some general policy considerations for double majors within BU Sargent College:

  • Students must meet all requirements in both programs including GPA, all coursework (major and elective) and internships where applicable.
  • Both degrees must be completed before the student can graduate from Boston University.
  • Students must complete no fewer than 36 courses (144 credits) for a double major.

To apply, students must complete their freshman year with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. Applications can be made during the first or second semester of the sophomore year or by the first semester of the junior year (at least three semesters of enrollment are required).

  • Students must meet with Deborah Claar, DDP and Sargent Double Majors coordinator to discuss feasibility of declaring a double major. All paperwork is processed through her.
  • The application will then be reviewed by academic advisors who have knowledge of both programs.
  • As part of the application, an essay (one-page, typed) must be submitted that describes why the double major is academically beneficial.

What is the procedure for Studying Abroad?

If students are considering studying abroad, it is recommended that they begin the process of exploration by the second semester of the freshmen year to ensure that they plan their course of study appropriately. First, students must make an appointment with Heather Nicholson to see the feasibility of fitting it into one’s program. Heather will then refer students to the International Programs Office, 232 Bay State Road, 353-9888 to pick up their application. A Study Abroad Seminar will be presented by the Sargent Peer Counselors each semester to talk about the study abroad experience. The International Programs Office holds information sessions about the specific programs offered through BU and other institutions.

What do I have to do to prepare for graduation?

All students must fill out an Application for Graduation to certify that all degree requirements are being met. The form must be returned to room 207 by February 1st of the last year of study to ensure that the student’s name is included in the May graduation list and commencement programs. For students graduating in January, the Application for Graduation should be handed in by November 1st. Doctoral students must check with their advisor as to their eligibility to participate and it is recommended that the dissertation defense be scheduled by mid April if the student is to receive their hood and diploma in the May ceremony.

All students (January, May and September grads) are invited to participate in the May commencement ceremony if they have completed all coursework by that date. Commencement materials will be sent by email and postal mail so please be sure that BU has updated contact information. Check the Sargent College and Boston University websites for important details about the ceremonies or stop by the Academic Services Center or call (617-353-2713) with any questions.

What unique Sargent College events can I participate in?

  • Rose Banquet
    The Rose Banquest is a dinner sponsored by the sophomore class for the freshman class to welcome them to the college and to the traditions that make the BU Sargent College experience so unique. After the banquet, sophomores circulate a rose to the freshmen at each table. Each student takes a petal off the rose and places it in a box, which is saved until the class graduates and the petals are scattered. This symbolizes their growth together over the four years. Faculty advisors are encouraged to attend. This event is held in the Fall.
  • Junior Pledge
    The Junior Pledge is a Spring event to recognize the junior class’s achievements and to affirm their commitment to the health professions. A speaker is usually a faculty member or an alumnus of BU Sargent College and the students put together a slide show to highlight the class achievements. Parents are invited and faculty are encouraged to attend.

How can I take a Leave of Absence or withdraw from BU and Sargent College?

LEAVE OF ABSENCE OR WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE:

All degree candidates are expected to register each semester (not including summer) until graduation. Students who have reason not to register may petition for a Leave of Absence (LOA). All undergraduate students must go to the University Service Center in the basement of 881 Comm. Avenue to pick up the form and schedule an exit interview. Students are also encouraged to inform faculty advisors and/or academic counselors as to their plans to insure their schedules are revised. All students officially withdrawing as degree candidates should also go through the University Service Center.

A student on a LOA must notify the BU Sargent College Student Academic Services Center, in writing, at least four weeks prior to the expiration of the leave, whether or not he/she intends to return to the College. A leave of absence is allowable for up to two consecutive semesters. Leaves of absence may be renewed upon written request to the students’ specific department by the student for a maximum of one additional year. If the student does not return to the degree program after four consecutive semesters, the student is considered withdrawn and he/she must reapply for admission. This application will be evaluated along with those submitted by new applicants. A student may not apply for a Leave of Absence to avoid either probation or dismissal for academic reasons.

A student who voluntarily withdraws from BU Sargent College may apply for reinstatement to the department in which he/she wishes readmission at least eight weeks prior to the beginning of the semester. The student and the University Registrar are then notified as to whether the registration is approved.

A student wishing to complete a semester of study at another university must receive departmental approval by way of petition, requesting a Leave of Absence, approval of coursework and the transfer of credits to Boston University. Credits will not be transferred until the student’s Academic Counselor in the Academic Services Center (room 207) at BU Sargent College has received official transcripts.

Withdrawal/LOA refund schedule:

  1. Prior to the First Day of Classes 100% tuition and fees
  2. During the first two weeks of classes 80% tuition
  3. During the third week of classes 60% tuition
  4. During the fourth week of classes 40% tuition
  5. During the fifth week of classes 20% tuition
  6. After the fifth week of classes No refund

How can I stay off academic probation?

Any student whose grade point index is below a 1.7 will be placed on academic probation. Students placed on academic probation will be notified by the college. To remove probationary status, students must achieve a 1.7 or better GPI in the following semester. Summer work at BU can also remove a student from probation. Any student who has been below a 1.7 GPI for two consecutive semesters will be academically dismissed from all programs within the college but they will be allowed a transitional semester to raise their GPA to transfer to another college within the University or elsewhere. If, at the end of that semester, they are unable to successfully transfer, they will not be allowed to register until they are eligible to transfer into another program within the University.

No student on probation may hold office in any college or university organization, participate in any intercollegiate event or program, including athletics, or otherwise represent the university or college. A student on probation is not excluded from membership in a student organization.

A student on probation may be ineligible to receive any financial aid from the university or college. A letter is sent to each student informing him/her of academic probation status. Copies of this letter are sent to the faculty advisor, the appropriate guardians and it is recorded at the Registrar’s Office on the University Record System. Students on probation are encouraged to seek advice from an academic counselor at the college.

Who can I talk to about graduate financial aid questions?

Janet Turner
Sargent Graduate Program Financial Aid Director
Phone: 617-353-7477
Email: jmt98@bu.edu

What campus resources are available to Sargent College students?

Campus Resources

  • Student Health Services (1st Floor)
    Located at 881 Commonwealth Avenue, the First Floor is the Student Health Services which must be entered through the next door (881 West) outside of the building. The number is 617-353-3575 and the clinic hours are 9-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  • The Behavioral Medicine Center of Student Health Services (1st Floor)
    There are times when difficulties are experienced as a crisis or where emotional distress rises above modest levels. Services are available for the following: depression, anxiety or panic, eating disorders, sexual assault or other trauma, alcohol and drug problems, suicidal thoughts, attention deficit or hyperactivity, dysfunctional family problems, sexually related problems and health problems. A Counselor is available for emergencies twenty four hours per day and can be reached by phone at 617-353-3569.
  • Office of the Registrar (2nd Floor)
    Diplomas/Verifications: 617-353-3604
    Student Records: 617-353-3612
    Transcripts: 617-353-3616
    Note: To have an official transcript sent, the student can request this on line and pay a fee to the registrar’s office (unofficial student copies are free and can be downloaded via the Student Link). To pick up a transcript, the student’s ID must be presented.
  • Student Accounts (4th Floor)
    The main number is 617-353-2264. For problems with billing, please go to the fourth floor.
  • Office of Financial Assistance (5th Floor)
    Students need to approach this floor with their facts in order and all the forms that have ever been sent to them from this office. The financial assistance officers are in charge of students according to an alphabet division. Students should know the name and phone number of their officer, as it will be very important during their years at B.U.
  • Undergraduate Admissions and Student Employment & Work Study (6th Floor)
    The Sixth Floor is the Undergraduate Admissions office. The sixth floor also houses the student employment and work study office (617-353-3596). Quickie Jobs is also on this floor. If a student would like to do a one-time job, there are postings through Quickie Jobs such as babysitting, house painting, moving, filing, etc., for people around the city and surrounding areas. Students do not need to be on work study to do these.

Center for Career Development

The Center for Career Development (CCD) is dedicated to supporting students through the choice of major and the career decision-making process. They partner with students on self-assessment, exploration, and the identification of career options. They assist students in developing skills, career tools, and strategies to pursue graduate study, internships, and jobs.

The CCD welcomes students from all Boston University schools and colleges. They invite you to visit early and often during your time at BU. For further information, please call 617-353-3590 or visit www.bu.edu/careers.

Office of Disability Services

If a student has a documented learning disability, attention disorder or mental disability, or think that they might have one, contact the Office of Disability Services (617-353-3658). At the Office, students can work with specialists who are experienced in providing learning strategies instruction, reasonable accommodations, and support to students with disabilities.

George Sherman Union (GSU)

  • Escort Service
    Phone:     617-353-4877
    If students are out late at night and would like a safe walk home, here are the times:
    Sunday – Thursday 8 p.m. – 2 a.m.
    Friday – Saturday 8 p.m. – 3 a.m.
  • The Howard Thurman Center
    George Sherman Union, lower floor
    Phone:     617-353-7189
    The Office of Multicultural Affairs at the Howard Thurman Center is located at the GSU.
  • Ticket Office
    George Sherman Union, 2nd floor
    Phone: 617-353-2921
    This is located on the second floor. Students can purchase “T” passes here at the beginning and end of the month. The price for a “T” pass is $35.00 per month. Check the bulletin board for upcoming social and cultural events. These events are often held in the large ballroom (Metcalf Hall).
  • Educational Resource Center
    George Sherman Union, 4th floor
    Phone: 617-353-7077
    Email: erc@bu.edu
    The ERC offers free peer tutoring services as well as workshops in Test-Taking, Test Anxiety, Channeling Perfectionism, Time Management, Problem-Solving, and Note-Taking and Memorization.
  • Student Activities Office (SAO)
    George Sherman Union, 4th floor
    Phone: 617-353-3635
    Located on the fourth floor, the hours are:
    Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

What wellness related campus resources are available to Sargent College students?

  • Be Well @ BU!
    Boston University has many resources on campus to support all the facets of your personal wellness. A selection of these resources is listed below. Please note that the information listed here is a small snapshot of each department’s offerings-we encourage you to visit their respective websites to learn all the details!
  • Wellness & Residential Education
    19 Deerfield Street, 2nd Floor
    617-353-3540 / http://www.bu.edu/reslife
    Wellness & Residential Education, a part of the Office of Residence Life, offers a variety of events throughout the year to educate students about health and wellness issues, including a one-hour alcohol education class. The office includes a resource library that contains books, brochures, and DVDs for student use, as well as a Stress-Free Zone where students can relax and de-stress. Students may also speak individually with staff for answers to health-related questions and referrals to on- and off-campus resources.
  • Student Health Services
    881 Commonwealth Avenue, West Entrance
    Phone: 617-353-3575
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/shs
    Behavioral Medicine Clinic/Crisis Intervention Counselor: 617-353-3569
    Student Health Services provides a variety of medical, counseling, and psychological services to students. Many of these services are available at no cost or low cost. A Medical and Mental Health clinician are always available on call, after hours. In addition, a Crisis Intervention Counselor is on call 24 hours a day.
  • The Danielsen Institute
    185 Bay State Road
    Phone: 617-353-3047
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/danielsen
    The Danielsen Institute Clinic offers a variety of psychological services, including individual, group, family, and couples therapy, as well as psychological testing and assessment for adults, adolescents, and children. Many insurance plans, including Boston University’s Chickering Health Plan, can be used to cover a portion of applicable fees, and a sliding fee scale is also available.
  • The Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders (CARD)
    648 Beacon Street, 6th Floor
    Phone: 617-353-9610
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/anxiety
    CARD offers treatment for a variety of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, phobias, and eating disorders. Fees are based on a sliding scale, and some treatment associated with research studies may be free of charge.
  • The BU Psychological Services Center
    648 Beacon Street, 5th Floor, Kenmore Square
    Phone: 617-358-4290
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/psc/ (Website under construction)
    The PSC offers structured, symptom-focused, empirically-validated treatments including stress management, relaxation training, assertiveness training, anger management, and treatment for problems such as adjustment disorders, test or performance anxiety, difficulties in attention and concentration, and insomnia. The PSC provides a thorough initial intake interview to determine the nature and extent of emotional problems as well as neuropsychological assessment of attentional and cognitive/learning impairment. Fees are based on a low sliding scale. The PSC exclusively treats BU students, staff and faculty. All treatment is provided by PhD graduate students under the close supervision of licensed psychologists.
  • Chaplains
    735 Commonwealth Avenue
    Phone: 617-353-3560
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/chapel
    A variety of chaplains are available to all students, regardless of religious affiliation. Appointments can be scheduled, or students can visit the chapel office on weekdays between 9AM and 10PM.
  • The University Service Center
    881 Commonwealth Avenue
    Phone: 617-358-1818
    Website: http://www.bu.edu/usc
    The University Service Center is designed to help members of the university community who have questions or problems of a unique or complex nature that don’t necessarily “fit” into the areas addressed by other administrative offices. They also handle withdrawals and leaves of absence.

Downloadable Forms

Who can I talk to when I have questions for the Academic Services Center?

Name Title Contact
Senior Staff Coordinator Phone: 617-353-2713
E-Mail: ugrad@bu.edu
Deborah Claar Academic Counselor for Juniors and Seniors E-Mail: dsclaar@bu.edu
Heather Nicholson Academic Counselor for Freshmen and Sophomores E-Mail: nichol@bu.edu
Janet Turner Director of Graduate Financial Aid E-Mail: jmt98@bu.edu
Sharon Sankey Director of Student Services E-Mail: ssankey@bu.edu
Professor Melanie Matthies Associate Dean E-Mail: matthies@bu.edu