American Studies BA
Study of the history, culture, politics, and society of the United States, exploring American identity, power, diversity, and global influence through interdisciplinary perspectives.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in American culture and history
Enjoy interdisciplinary study
Like analysing society and politics
Want a flexible degree
Are curious
Popular Career Fields
Education
Government & Public Sector
Journalism & Publishing
Research & Academia
Your Personality Might Be:
Culturally curious
Government & Public Sector
Politically aware
Interdisciplinary mind
What is it?
What is an American Studies degree?
American Studies is an interdisciplinary degree that examines the United States from historical, cultural, political, and social perspectives.
You’ll explore key moments in American history, political institutions, literature, popular culture, race and identity, social movements, and America’s role in the world.
The degree draws on disciplines such as history, politics, literature, sociology, film, and cultural studies.
It is ideal for students who want to understand the complexities of American society and its global impact beyond stereotypes.
Why Study American Studies
If you’re interested in culture, politics, history, and global power, American Studies offers a broad and flexible academic pathway.
It helps you understand:
How American history has shaped modern society
The political and legal foundations of the United States
Race, class, gender, and identity in American life
American literature, film, and popular culture
The United States’ influence on global politics and media
The degree develops strong analytical and critical thinking skills applicable to many careers.
Course Summary
Study of the history, culture, politics, and society of the United States, exploring American identity, power, diversity, and global influence through interdisciplinary perspectives.
What you'll study
Most American Studies degrees cover:
U.S. history from colonisation to the present
American politics, institutions, and ideologies
Race, ethnicity, and civil rights movements
American literature, film, and popular culture
Social movements and cultural change
Research methods and interdisciplinary analysis
Skills You'll Gain
An American Studies degree builds strong academic and analytical skills including:
Critical and cultural analysis – enabling you to interpret texts, media, and historical sources.
Research and evidence evaluation – helping you build structured, well-supported arguments.
Written and oral communication – preparing you to express complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
Interdisciplinary thinking – allowing you to connect ideas across history, politics, and culture.
Global awareness – supporting understanding of America’s role in international contexts.
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Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Media, journalism, and communications
Public policy and government
Education and academia
International relations and diplomacy
Publishing, marketing, and cultural industries
NGOs and advocacy organisations
Work Experiences & Placements
American Studies degrees often encourage students to gain practical experience that complements their academic study of U.S. history, politics, culture, and society.
Some programmes offer an optional placement year, year abroad in the United States, or work-based modules, while others support internships undertaken during vacations or alongside study.
Typical work experience opportunities include:
Media, journalism, or communications roles
Government departments, policy organisations, or think tanks
Cultural institutions, museums, or heritage organisations
NGOs, charities, or advocacy groups with a transatlantic focus
Education, publishing, or research support roles
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. History, English Literature, Politics, Sociology, Geography, or Media Studies are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Demonstrate interest in U.S. history, politics, or culture.
Reference books, films, or current events that sparked your interest.
Show curiosity about American diversity and global influence.
Highlight strong reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.
What to do Next
Explore courses offering study abroad or year-in-America options.
Read widely across American history, politics, and culture.
Follow U.S. current affairs and cultural debates.
Consider career paths that value global and cultural insight.
Wider Reading
These Truths – Jill Lepore
A sweeping history of the United States and its foundational ideals.The Fire Next Time – James Baldwin
A powerful exploration of race, identity, and moral responsibility in America.A People’s History of the United States – Howard Zinn
A landmark account of American history from the perspective of marginalised groups.The Age of Reagan – Sean Wilentz
An accessible analysis of modern American political history.