Social and Cultural Analysis (American Studies)

Program Overview

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The Social and Cultural Analysis (American Studies) BA program at Arizona State University examines the historical, political, and cultural forces shaping the United States, with a focus on identity formations and the experiences of marginalized groups. Through a transdisciplinary approach, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills to explore American culture, politics, and history. The program prepares graduates for careers in government, education, business, and non-profit organizations, as well as for graduate study in American Studies or related fields.

Program Outline

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Social and Cultural Analysis (American Studies), BA at Arizona State University

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• To examine the historical, political, and cultural forces shaping the United States.
• To analyze identity formations around gender, sexuality, race, and ethnicity.
• To develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of American culture, politics, and history.

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Description:

This program takes a transdisciplinary approach, drawing on the social sciences, humanities, and arts to investigate the United States as a site of ongoing cultural and political change and conflict. Students learn diverse methods of analysis to critically examine nationalist politics, cultural practices, migration, and nation-making processes. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the experiences of marginalized groups and how they have shaped American society.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

• The program consists of 120 credit hours, including 36 credit hours of core courses, 30 credit hours of elective courses, and 54 credit hours of general education courses.
• Core courses cover topics such as:
• Introduction to American Studies
• Theories and Methods of American Studies
• History of American Social Movements
• Race, Gender, and Class in America
• American Culture and Identity
• American Politics and Policy
• The Global United States
• Elective courses allow students to explore specific interests within American Studies, such as:
• African American Studies
• Asian American Studies
• Chicano/a Studies
• Indigenous Studies
• LGBTQ Studies
• Women's and Gender Studies
• Labor Studies
• Environmental Studies
• Urban Studies
• General education courses provide a foundation in critical thinking, writing, and research skills.

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Course Schedule:

• The program is offered on a semester basis, with courses typically lasting 15 weeks.
• Students typically take 4-5 courses per semester.
• Courses are offered during the day, evening, and online.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of methods are used to assess student learning, including:
• Essays and research papers
• Presentations
• Exams
• Class participation
• Portfolios

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are designed to measure student's ability to:
• Think critically about complex issues
• Analyze and interpret primary and secondary sources
• Communicate effectively in written and oral form
• Conduct independent research
• Apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Discussion groups
• Collaborative projects
• Fieldwork
• Guest speakers

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Faculty:

• The program's faculty are experts in their respective fields, with a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring students.
• Many faculty members have published extensively on topics related to American Studies.
• The program also benefits from the expertise of visiting scholars and practitioners.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in government, education, business, and non-profit organizations.
• They are also well-prepared for graduate study in American Studies or related fields.
• Some potential career paths include:
• Civil rights organizations
• Colleges and universities
• Corporations
• Government agencies
• Law firms
• Libraries
• Museums
• Political action groups
• Public relations firms
• Social service agencies

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Skills and Knowledge:

• Graduates develop a strong foundation in American history, culture, and politics.
• They also gain valuable skills in:
• Critical thinking
• Research
• Writing
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Problem-solving

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Other:

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Global Opportunities:

• Students can participate in a faculty-led study abroad program that explores culture, borders, and politics in a global context.
• This program helps students develop cross-cultural communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of the United States' place in the world.

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Admission Requirements:

• Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Applicants must submit a personal statement and two letters of recommendation.

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Concurrent Degree Options:

• Students can pursue concurrent degrees in American Studies and other disciplines, such as English, history, political science, or sociology.
• This option allows students to deepen their understanding of a particular area of interest.

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Accelerated Master's Options:

• Students can pursue an accelerated master's degree in English or Social Justice and Human Rights.
• This option allows students to complete both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.

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Western Undergraduate Exchange Program:

• Students from Western states who select this major may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition.