American Studies offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultures and societies of America from a perspective that is inherently interdisciplinary. This program provides a structured platform to encourage students to cross traditional academic boundaries and to integrate the arts, humanities, and social sciences. It is an effective program complement for those majoring in the related fields of art, music, dance and theatre; communication, English, and foreign languages; history, geography, and political science; philosophy; sociology, and criminal justice; as well as interdisciplinary majors in women's studies, African American and African studies, and international studies. The minor is also effective for international students, who may wish either to better understand American culture or to acquire an expertise useful in their home countries.
Program Highlights
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Interdisciplinary program, allowing students to build their minor while learning how the idea of America is conceptualized across various forms and disciplines
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Makes use of multi-media, extratextual formats, working from an understanding that we project some sense of our selves and our idea of nationhood into everything we produce
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Students will acquire a deep and unique perspective on American history and culture that cannot be obtained anywhere else
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Requirements
Transfer
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Featured Courses
An exploration of current methodological approaches utilized in the interdisciplinary field of American Studies. Through integrative themes that cut across time, place and cultural identity, this course will allow students to build a working definition of civilization in the United States. Prerequisites: ENGL 110C or HIST 104H or permission of instructor.
An investigation of how African American literature has innovated, influenced, and been influenced by literary movements, historical events, social transitions, and political upheavals. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: One 300-level course in English or permission of instructor and a grade of C or better in one of the following: ENGL 211C, ENGL 221C, or ENGL 231C.
An analysis of social differentiation, stratification, and social class. Emphasis is placed upon modern American society, with some comparison with historical and contemporary systems of other societies. Prerequisites: SOC 201S or permission of the instructor.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
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