American Studies is an interdisciplinary field of study that integrates history, political science, literature, economics, fine arts, sociology, theology, philosophy, criminal justice, and a variety of other disciplines to explore American (typically the United States) civilization. American Studies majors ask broad questions about the nature of American culture, civilization, and identity. Students of American Studies are challenged to question why American culture developed as it did and to explore what influences have shaped this nation’s identity.

The major will consist of a total of 10 courses, distributed according to the following guidelines.  See below for list of eligible courses. 

1.  AS100, Introduction to American Studies

2.  2 history courses from the list of eligible courses.

3.  1 Politics or 1 Sociology course from the list of eligible courses. 

4.  1 English course from the list of eligible courses. 

5.  1 Fine Arts course

6.  3 additional courses selected from the list of eligible courses below [one of these must come from departments not listed above - either Criminal Justice, Theology, Philosophy, or Politics / Sociology (the one not selected in #3)].

7.  AS401, Independent Research.  Working closely with a member of the faculty affiliated with the American Studies major, students will write an independent guided research paper.  The supervising faculty member will be chosen by the student in consultation with the chair of the History Department.  In addition, successful completion of the research project will require the approval of a second reader from the American Studies related faculty, also chosen in consultation with the chair of the History Department.