American Studies Major

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in American Studies at UConn offers a critical understanding of the American experience. Students examine how cultures have shaped the country and how the country has influenced the rest of the world.

A student answers a question during a class discussion.

Program Details

The Major in American Studies promotes an interdisciplinary approach to exploring United States culture within a global context. Our curriculum brings together classes in history, English, political science, art history, and other disciplines, allowing students to explore topics such as:

  • Nationhood and citizenship.
  • Historical memory and memorialization.
  • Social inequality and struggles for social justice.
  • Popular culture and media.
  • U.S. empire, globalization, and the Americas.

Requirements and Courses

The Department of Social and Critical Inquiry offers a diverse selection of American Studies (AMST) courses and four unique tracks within the major, allowing students to customize their learning experience. Students often study history, literature, politics, and art within the space of a single class.

Core Courses

Students are required to complete 27 credits toward the major, which must include:

  • AMST 1201: Introduction to American Studies.
  • AMST 3265W: American Studies Methods.
  • One course from each of the following categories:
    • Space, Place, Land, and Landscape.
    • The United States and the World (Popular Culture and the Cultural Imagination Intersectionalities.
    • Politics, Social Movements, and Everyday Life.
    • The Americas.
  • One elective course from any of the categories listed above.

Related Courses

Students must complete four additional courses in subjects related to American Studies, which require your advisor’s prior approval.

American Studies Tracks

  • Track 1: History, Culture, Society.
  • Track 2: Literature and Arts.
  • Track 3: Political Science, Economics, Law.
  • Track 4: The Americas.

Outcomes and Careers

Students who major in American Studies graduate with a versatile skill set highly sought after by employers across a wide range of industries. Our alumni find professional success in the fields of writing, history, education, law, government, social services, and policy planning.