Alternatively, if students have an interest in Hispanic America, they may opt for a Spanish language course. A minimum of half the coursework in North America must be in the area of American Studies, but students will also be able to take the equivalent of one full year in any discipline in which they have an interest. The University of Edinburgh has exchange agreements with a number of institutions with whom it has long standing contacts. The institutions in North America are noted for academic excellence but vary in type and regional distribution. Selection of institutions in North America will take place in the second term of the first year.
Students can express preferences for whether they wish to study in a small town or a major city.
Their Director of Studies will help them to choose courses and after arrival in North America they will be assigned an advisor at the host institution. This year in North America is a critical component of the curriculum. It will allow students to immerse themselves in another culture and education system. This paper as well as reinforcing the multidisciplinary nature of the degree furnishes an opportunity of producing a sustained piece of independent research and writing on a topic of the student's choice.