Well, a 12 string is tuned at octaves for the first 3 or 4 bottom (pitch) strings and just double strung with the same tuning for the top 2 or 3 strings. Usually they are tuned to a D rather than an E to drop some of the tension on the neck and a capo is used on the second fret.

The problems with this arrangement are things like string bending and the extra tension generated by the second set of strings. This makes playing solos very difficult.

You could just ignore the second set of strings with out any problem however you are still faced with all the limitations of an acoustic guitar (hi action and very tense strings).