American Studies Major  - Overview

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Offered By:

ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences

Academic Contact:

Dr John Hart and Dr Douglas Craig


The United States is the most powerful nation on earth, and arguably the most powerful state in world history. Whatever the United States does affects the rest of the world in a variety of ways and therefore it is vital to understand the broader framework within which America acts on the world stage. The major in American Studies gives students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of the U.S. through a range of courses on its history, politics, literature, and culture in a multi-disciplinary program.

The major draws upon a selection of courses offered in the Schools of Social Sciences and Humanities in the Faculty of Arts. It caters for those who want a broad introduction to the United States and also for those who wish to develop special interests within this area. The major in American Studies also provides an excellent grounding for honours level study in American literature, history and politics.

Requirements

The major will consist of a minimum requirement of 42 units (7 courses) comprising:
(a) a maximum of 12 units (2 courses) at first-year level including the core course HIST1205 Europe and the Atlantic World, c1450 - 1750 and one course from the first year courses listed for this major; plus
(b) a minimum of 30 units (5 courses) of designated later-year courses listed for this major.

Please note that:

  • In 2008 - 2009 HIST1206 Three American Revolutions was the core course for this major;
  • In 2007 HIST1205 Europe and the Atlantic World, c. 1450-1750 was the core course for this major;
  • in 2006 HIST1206 Three American Revolutions was the core course for this major; and
  • in 2003-2005 HIST1020 Foundations of the United States to 1900 was the core course for this major.