American Studies
Introduction to the Major
Faculty members talk about what you can learn and what makes this major special.
Mission Statement
Broadly, American Studies takes an interdisciplinary approach to the culture, society, politics, and economy of the United States, equipping students with a range of content knowledge and critical thinking skills. The field trains students to critically examine many subjects that are related to the United States.
Learning Goals
Majors in American Studies can expect to develop skills in analysis, writing, and interdisciplinary thinking well-suited to a career in research or education. Moreover, the field's emphasis on historical context and cultural specificity, along with English language skills, will prepare you for a range of work in international affairs, public service, communications/media, journalism, and business.
Core curriculum sequence:
All students majoring or minoring in American Studies are required to take AMS 101 "Principles of American Studies." In addition, students are recommended to take AMS 201 "Issues in American Society" and AMS 301 "Special Topics in American Studies."
Other courses:
As a fundamentally interdisciplinary field, American Studies offers courses across the humanities and social sciences in Anthropology; Economics; International Relations; Literature; Music; Media, Communication, and Culture; Philosophy and Religion; Politics; and Sociology. Courses within these majors that are listed as American Studies courses count as credits for the American Studies major.
Study abroad: All students majoring or minoring in American Studies are highly encouraged to participate in a study abroad program in the United States.
Senior thesis: The American Studies senior thesis is written under the guidance of American Studies faculty and gives each student the opportunity to strengthen their understanding of a topic and to hone their research and writing skills