Programs of Study

UML offers both a major and a minor in American Studies, as well as a combined BA/MA with RESD (Regional, Economic, and Social Development).  

The Major in American Studies

All students majoring in American Studies are required to take the following courses:  

• 40.248 Values in American Culture
• 43.111/43.112  U.S. History to/since 1877
• 42.294/42.295 History of American Literature I and II
• A course in research methods
• 40.401 American Studies Seminar or 40.491 Directed Study

See the undergraduate catalog for course descriptions.

In addition, students select courses from the arts, humanities, and social sciences through which they analyze American culture, social structures and problems, and avenues of change. These courses are selected with guidance from the faculty in American Studies. Students are also encouraged to complete at least one internship/practicum in a professional area of interest. A typical American Studies major completes 36 credits in American Studies courses.

Student following the traditional major will then choose two disciplines
from which to take 12 credits at the 300 level or above (six credits from each discipline) and an interdisciplinary course.

Students choosing the thematic option will identify a theme to explore and choose five to six courses from the list approved for each theme. Three of these courses 
must be at the 300 level or higher. Click on the themes below to see listings of approved courses:

       The City, the Environment and Technology in America 

       Class, Gender and Ethnicity in America

       Popular Culture and the Arts in America

       Conflict and War in American Culture

All students are also encouraged to do a practicum. 

New BA/MA Option with RESD

The American Studies Program now offers a five-year BA/MA option in conjunction with the Department of Regional Economic and Social Development.  The option allows students to take select courses from the RESD graduate offerings while 
completing the American Studies major.  Follow the link for details about the option, requirements and courses, or contact Hilary Holladay for American Studies or Philip Moss in RESD.

• Two 300 level American History Courses
• 40.248 Values in American Culture
• At least one interdisciplinary course