The American Studies major is the perfect blend of History and English that will allow you to think critically and make comparisons between the past and the present. The program takes a broad, interdisciplinary approach to the meaning and nature of culture in the United States. Literature is the core of the program, but you will position your literary study in a comparative analysis of visual media and history to supplement your understanding of the relationship between cultural expressions and their context in social, political, and economic change.
WHY CHOOSE AMERICAN STUDIES?
Combining a specialization in American culture with emphasis on critical reading, writing, and thinking throughout the course of study offers you a unique perspective in the study of history through literature. If you are interested in a career specifically focused on American literature or culture, you will be able to present yourself as a specialist in the field. Not only will you discover a more detailed understanding of our society, you will be able to consider the implications of past events in the shaping of our culture today.
WHAT WILL YOU STUDY?
The curriculum crosses boundaries from American literature (including major African American and ethnic authors) to American history, film, and other visual media. It includes an in-depth study of the major texts in American Literature, as well as courses from the University’s programs in History, Communication, and Film and Media Studies.
January 2025
College of Arts and Sciences
1215 Wilbraham Road,
SPRINGFIELD,
Massachusetts,
01119, United States
Students should have high school transcripts in English.
Undergraduate students can use any of the following standardized tests to meet our English language requirement:
TOEFL - 74 IBT
IELTS - 6
PTE Academic - 50
STEP Eiken - Pre-1
iTEP – 4
Duolingo - 100 DET
Admission is on rolling basis.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.