Dec 04, 2025  
2025-2026 University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 University Catalog

American Studies, B.A.


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(120 UNITS)

The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies is an interdisciplinary study of the United States in the past and present. Courses focus on the cultural history of topics such as: race, immigration and ethnicity; gender, sexuality and body politics; popular culture, technology and the arts; work and leisure; the environment, communities and region; sports and mental health; film, literature and creative work; childhood and adolescence; and crime and violence. The program develops analytical thinking, reading and writing skills and fosters a critical engagement with the past and present, preparing students for careers in business, communications, government service, law, social services and teaching. An American Studies B.A. is an ideal double major and complements majors in Art, Communications, Criminal Justice, English, Ethnic Studies, History, Human Services, Liberal Studies, Music, Psychology, Sociology, and Women’s and Gender Studies.

In addition to the requirements for the major, students must meet all other university requirements for a bachelor’s degree. Please consult the Graduation Requirements for the Bachelor’s Degree  section in this catalog for complete information.

Required (12 units)


Electives (24 units)


Students may take all 24 units in American Studies or select up to 12 units upper-division courses from a related field in consultation with an academic adviser. Electives may be used to explore an area of interest, such as race and ethnicity, law and society, gender roles, urbanization, technology, education, the child and the family, or popular culture. Consult with an adviser to help develop a plan that best fits your interests.

  • 400-level AMST course (3)
  • 300- or 400-level courses (21) *

Note:


* AMST 101 , AMST 131 , AMST 132  or an adviser-approved AMST 100-level course may substitute for one 300-level course

Total (120 units)


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