American Studies, B.A.

(120 UNITS)

The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies is an interdisciplinary study of the United States in the past and present. Courses focus on the cultural history of topics such as: race, immigration and ethnicity; gender, sexuality and body politics; popular culture, technology and the arts; work and leisure; the environment, communities and region; sports and mental health; film, literature and creative work; childhood and adolescence; and crime and violence. The program develops analytical thinking, reading and writing skills and fosters a critical engagement with the past and present, preparing students for careers in business, communications, government service, law, social services and teaching. An American Studies B.A. is an ideal double major and complements majors in Art, Communications, Criminal Justice, English, Ethnic Studies, History, Human Services, Liberal Studies, Music, Psychology, Sociology, and Women’s and Gender Studies.

In addition to the requirements for the major, students must meet all other university requirements for a bachelor’s degree. Please consult the Graduation Requirements for the Bachelor’s Degree  section in this catalog for complete information.