It includes the study of American history, literature, and arts and its social, economic, political, and philosophical development. As an interdisciplinary major, it crosses the boundaries of several disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, yet depends on the subject matter, insights, and techniques from those disciplines to help students understand the complex social, political, and cultural American experience American Studies offers students, in consultation with an adviser, the opportunity to design an individual course of study which is clearly coordinated with their future plans. The major requires 24 units of core courses in American literature, history, and cultural study. The core courses are followed by 12 units, chosen by the student, for in-depth study of themes, areas, or aspects of American culture Because of the multidisciplinary character of American Studies, most students easily complete at least one minor in one of the allied disciplines, and many graduate with a double major. For example, previous students have double-majored in history or political science or have minored in English, history, or anthropology.
Students also use electives to pick up courses in communications, computer science, and business.
This flexibility is one of the advantages of American Studies. The goals and career plans of our students are diverse. Faculty American studies faculty are chosen from the academic departments participating in the program. These faculty, selected for their understanding of American culture, will help you widen your interdisciplinary perspectives. Because American Studies is an interdepartmental major, you have the opportunity of studying with top scholars from across campus.