American Studies - BS, BA
About This Degree
The American studies program offers students a sophisticated understanding of the issues, histories, and relationships that shape North American culture, past and present.
This degree can lead to a number of professional careers in museums, law, government, state and national park services, public arts, humanities, nonprofit organizations, and academic settings.
What You Will Learn
With focus areas in the American West, Canadian and Mexican Borderlands, American history, literature, folklore, creative non-fiction, studies in visual culture, and the environment, the American studies program allows students to forge a plan of coursework that crosses both geographical and historical boundaries. Though housed in the English Department, students majoring in American studies will be exposed to a number of classes in other areas throughout the university. Students must also complete an 18-credit Area of Focus (which may also fulfill minor requirements) in an approved subject from the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
In order to help students achieve their career goals, the American studies program provides a number of internship opportunities in nearly every field of study, both nationally and internationally.
Students receive a by completing all required courses in the major. To receive a BA, students must also gain proficiency in one or more foreign languages.
ADVISING
At a Glance
College: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Department: English Department
USU Locations:
- Logan campus
Program Requirements
Career And Outcomes
Career Opportunities
With a degree in American studies, students may be qualified for the following careers:
- Education
- Researcher
- Writer
- Editor
- Information management
- Museum work
- Librarian
- Law work
- Legislative staff
- Work in government offices
- Insurance work
- Stock analysis
The Career and Design Center provides counseling and information on hundreds of job and internship opportunities and even helps students apply and interview.
Job Outlook
USU Locations
LOGAN CAMPUS
Admission
Admission Requirements
In addition to Utah State University’s admissions requirements, the American studies program has additional requirements:
- Freshmen: New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to this major.
- Transfer Students: Transfer students from other institutions and students transferring from other USU majors need a 2.75 total GPA for admission to this major.
International students have additional admissions requirements.
Program Requirements
Students are required to choose two cognate areas from creative writing, folklore, history, American literature, nature and environment, political science, or sociology and anthropology. They must take nine credits from one cognate and 12 credits from the other, totaling 21 credits.
Take The Next Step
Visit Campus
Schedule a campus tour and come see what it's all about.
Cost and Aid
Learn about tuition, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities.
How to Apply
Start your degree path and apply now.
You May Also Be Interested In
American Studies
This interdisciplinary minor allows you to study the diverse and complex aspects of American history and cultures in local, national, and global terms as you chart your path to match your interests.
English
Whether you’d like to teach or just gain a deeper understanding of English/language arts, this major teaches you to write, think, and communicate effectively as you study literature, creative writing, education, technical writing, and more.
Folklore
This multidisciplinary minor lets you study the traditions of stories and the way narratives manifest around the world in both historical and modern perspectives, from Indigenous cultures to internet folklore.
Native American Studies
This minor provides cross-cultural experience in careers involving social justice, environmental policy, traditional knowledge, and cultural preservation among contemporary Native American communities.