愛荷華大學

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the B.A. in American studies, students should have:

a deepened knowledge and critical understanding of American history, cultures, and society;
the ability to interpret a range of sources (literature, painting, maps, diaries, music, census data, material objects) and to integrate those sources into a persuasive argument about American culture; and
the ability to explain one’s own perspective on American identity and to place that identity in the diverse, global context of our time.

Overview

American studies majors develop broad training in cultural analysis and communication. Students take courses that make sense of the contemporary world, both nationally and internationally, using a variety of approaches to the study of culture, including film, the digital humanities, art, theater, and literature. Faculty members have particular strengths in racial and ethnic studies, gender, sport studies, journalism, American literature, history, and American popular culture.

The Bachelor of Arts with a major in American studies requires a minimum of 120 s.h., including 33 s.h. of work for the major. Students must maintain a g.p.a. of at least 2.00 in all courses for the major and in all UI courses for the major. They also must complete the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences GE CLAS Core. At least 24 s.h. for the major must be earned at the University of Iowa.

A distinctive feature of the American studies major is the opportunity to develop broad training in cultural analysis as well as emphasis of particular interests within the study of American culture.

Shortly after declaring the major, students should meet with their faculty advisor to explore the range of course work available and to begin shaping a plan of study. By the second semester in the major, students and their advisor should have agreed upon a plan of study for completing the requirements for the major.

American studies provides preparation for careers in business, public relations, marketing, advertising, diversity outreach, tourism, education, politics and government, social service, media and journalism, museums, and the arts. It also provides a good foundation for graduate studies in the humanities, the social sciences, theology, and business, or for professional study in law or medicine.