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American Studies invites students to examine the development of American society and its culture. It also encourages students to explore the relationships among ideas, institutions, values, and aesthetic forms as they have evolved in the United States. Reflecting the pluralistic nature of the American experience, this program provides opportunities for students to explore multiculturalism and diversity in America.
American Studies allows students to combine a number of scholarly disciplines to better comprehend the many facets of American life. By completing courses from a variety of disciplines, students in American Studies not only sharpen their analytical powers and critical insights, but will, in the long term, be well prepared for employment in education, government, social services, business, and other professions.
Students who can analyze American culture by combining the concepts and approaches of a variety of disciplines - the arts, history, literature, political science, psychology, economics, sociology - are capable of making decisions with an understanding of the available alternatives. Many current problems relating to family life, medical ethics, gender and minorities, technology, the environment, international relations, government, and the influence of business, require an interdisciplinary approach. The American Studies major is an avenue by which students can obtain a liberal arts education. At the same time, the American Studies Committee encourages students to elect career-oriented courses as free electives, including management and computer science. Because of its flexibility, the American Studies major is a good choice for students who are unsure about their ultimate career choices, but who seek a foundation in the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts.
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