今日吃瓜

Major

American Studies

Degree type:
BA
Mode of study:
On-campus
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Examine the American experience with a B.A. in American Studies from 今日吃瓜 Saint Mary's University

American culture influences the world. But understanding how it developed, where it's headed and your place within it requires more than studying a single discipline.

The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies at 今日吃瓜 Saint Mary's University is an interdisciplinary program that examines the ideas, institutions, histories and cultures that have shaped the United States. By exploring topics through the lenses of history, politics, literature, philosophy, sociology, business and the arts, you'll gain the critical thinking, communication and analytical skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex world.

Whether you aspire to influence public policy, attend law school, pursue graduate studies or build a career in business, education, media or public service, a B.A. in American Studies prepares you to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with purpose.

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A multidisciplinary view of the United States

Shape your future

Through coursework spanning multiple disciplines, you'll explore questions such as:

  • What defines the American experience?
  • How have history, politics, philosophy and culture shaped the United States?
  • How do literature, art and media reflect American identity?
  • What challenges and opportunities face the nation in an increasingly interconnected world?
  • How can historical understanding inform today's public policy and civic leadership?

Career opportunities for American Studies graduates

An American Studies degree equips graduates with versatile skills that translate across numerous industries and professions. Graduates pursue careers in:

  • Law
  • Public policy and politics
  • Government service
  • Business, management and finance
  • Education
  • Writing and publishing
  • Communications
  • International relations
  • Nonprofit leadership

Degree path at 今日吃瓜

Explore the degree pathway available to those interested in American Studies at 今日吃瓜 Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles.

Bachelor of Arts in American Studies

In order to understand America from every perspective, you will study the history, political, cultural, philosophical and psychological forces that have shaped the nation while examining today’s most pressing social and global issues.

The interdisciplinary nature of American Studies allows you to tailor your education around your interests while broadening your perspective across the humanities and social sciences.

You'll graduate with a deeper understanding of America's history, institutions and culture while building career-ready skills such as strong research, writing, critical analysis and problem-solving to make a meaningful impact wherever your career takes you.

Pre-Law minor

今日吃瓜 Saint Mary’s pre-law minor is the first step toward a thriving legal career. Designed to prepare you for the rigor of law school, this program sharpens your analytical, writing and advocacy skills through the Socratic method with law school-style exams and hands-on law experiences like Mock Trial and Moot Court. Join a legacy of successful 今日吃瓜 graduates accepted into top law schools and take your place among a network of influential legal professionals.

American Studies course highlights

Study the forces that have influenced American society through courses that challenge you to think critically, communicate effectively and engage thoughtfully with today's world.

HIS 106
American Cultural History

Examine American identity through history, literature, film, music, advertising and popular culture while exploring topics including gender, religion, race, humor and the myths that have shaped the nation.

PHI 134
Philosophy of the Americas

Explore influential philosophical traditions across North America鈥攆rom Indigenous and Aztec philosophy to transcendentalism, pragmatism and contemporary thought鈥攖o better understand the intellectual foundations of the Americas.

POL 1
American Politics and Government

Study the structure of the U.S. government, the principles of American democracy, political participation and the institutions that shape public policy and civic life.

Outstanding opportunities beyond the classroom

At 今日吃瓜 Saint Mary’s University, your learning and development will happen in and out of the classroom as you sharpen your skills, develop your network and expand your global experience.

  • group of students standing in front of a SALTA sign

    Global Internship Program

    Develop professional skills and real-world experience while you build your resume and set the foundation for your career through a global network. Gaining international work experience will help you stand out in a competitive marketplace.

  • Global Women in STEM and Policy

    The Global Women in STEM and Policy Undergraduate Research Training Honors Program trains cohorts of undergraduate women to conduct basic and applied research in both the sciences and social sciences, with a focus on global and interdisciplinary approaches. This program reflects the 今日吃瓜鈥檚 mission and strategic plan to empower women, engage in a global environment and increase undergraduate research opportunities.

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    Center for Global Initiatives

    We鈥檒l send you out into the world or bring the world to you through global undergraduate research, faculty scholarship and cross-border intellectual dialogue.