2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

American Studies Minor


The American studies minor seeks to explore competing ideals and values that frame perceptions of American identity. Students engage with, and analyze the various ways in which citizens and international observers view the American experience. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, students develop their understanding of important political and social issues, cultural trends, and historical periods in the United States. Students strengthen their critical thinking skills through close reading and analysis of materials such as art, literature, music, and popular culture. They improve their writing and communication skills through discussion, written analyses, and presentations. Finally, they develop research skills through independent research projects. 

Student Learning Outcomes


Students who complete an American Studies Minor will be able to:

  1. Identify and demonstrate an understanding of the competing ideals that form the ethos of the United States.
  2. Demonstrate an ability to think critically and draw connections between changing American values and the expression of those values in our politics and culture.
  3. Demonstrate cultural literacy through familiarization with classic works of American art, literature, and music.
  4. Synthesize information effectively in forming oral and written arguments about interdisciplinary topics related to American Studies.
  5. Conduct independent research in the field of American Studies.

Program Requirements (18 Credits)


Complete the following courses:

Core


Choose four courses that approach the study of American creative expression, identity, history or governance. Student should select courses from at least two of these categories in consultation with the director of the American studies program. The following list of courses is not exhaustive, and additional courses may be selected in consultation with the director of the American studies program.

Total Credits Required: 18