COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in American Studies is an interdisciplinary degree that explores the history, literature, politics, and culture of the United States. Over four years, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the forces that have shaped American identity, from its founding to the present day. The first year introduces the foundations of American history and literature, covering events from the eighteenth century through to the Cold War. Students study a wide range of voices, including early colonists, enslaved people, and twentieth-century writers, while developing key academic skills in reading, writing, and analysis. Modules such as Introduction to American Studies and American Literature offer a critical overview of the nation's development, with a focus on how race, class, gender, and sexuality have informed American cultural and political life. In the second year, students begin to specialize, engaging with themes such as storytelling, visual culture, and representation. These modules challenge students to think critically about who controls narratives, how identities are constructed through images, and the political implications of cultural production. The third year is spent abroad at a partner university in the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. This year provides students with an immersive international experience, allowing them to deepen their academic interests and gain fresh perspectives on American culture. In the final year, students choose from a range of advanced modules and complete a dissertation based on their own research. With the support of academic supervisors, students pursue topics that reflect their passions and areas of expertise. The course encourages independent thinking, global awareness, and critical engagement with contemporary issues. Graduates emerge with strong research and communication skills, well-equipped for careers in education, media, publishing, politics, or further study. The degree offers a rich and nuanced exploration of America’s past and present, while cultivating skills that are relevant across many fields.