American Studies Major

Why study American studies at Geneseo?

American studies is committed to understanding American histories, cultures, institutions, and arts through multiple perspectives. Its interdisciplinary curriculum offers a wide range of courses that develop analytical, research, and communication skills necessary for success in a variety of fields. American studies emphasizes these and other skills as tools for civic engagement by illuminating social inequities, movements, and change.

The major integrates materials, themes, and approaches from diverse areas of study, including courses in history, literature, political science, sociology, communications, film and media studies, gender and sexuality studies, African American studies, and Native American studies. Students explore issues, frames, and theories of race, class, gender, ethnicity, and other aspects of American identity. Coursework examines the United States in global, transnational, cross-cultural, and comparative contexts.

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Students get a broad grounding in the study of social issues in the United States as well as the flexibility to pursue their own intellectual interests and goals. American studies can help prepare students for a complex, shifting job market and a variety of careers.

Program Options

• BA in American Studies
• Minor in American Studies

Program Highlights

• Substantial flexibility for students to create an individualized pathway in the major
• Opportunities to engage in project-based coursework, internships, study abroad, and a senior capstone seminar
• Interdisciplinary coursework that can be paired with a second major
• Center for Interdisciplinary Programs, a centralized home for independent majors outside of a traditional departmental structure