Postgraduate Courses in American Studies

Interested in learning about American History and Literature? Have you wanted to know more about the Civil Rights Movement and American culture? A postgraduate course in American Studies could be for you. Just after the Second World War, American Studies emerged as a subject that could be studied at university in the UK. As the decades have gone by, American Studies has increased in popularity with students and indeed those who fancied a career change. With an ever-increasing economy and prominence in world politics, America is a country that has a lot to offer which is why postgraduate courses in American Studies are in high demand.

Which Degree?

American History and American Literature are the two umbrellas under which American Studies is usually offered. However, within these subjects is the opportunity to specialise in the many different aspects of American culture such as film, poetry, art and philosophy. Most universities will offer an interdisciplinary approach to the course. As American Studies is comprised of a wide range of disciplines, the opportunity is there for you to liase with members of staff from different departments. For example, Slavery, African-American Politics, Realist Fiction, Anglo-American Reform, Women’s Movement may be covered by a number of departments such as Arts and Humanities, English and Comparative Literature, History, Cultural Studies and Politics. An MA degree will allow you to study a breadth of subjects and offer you the chance to develop your research skills. If you go on to do a PhD, you would need to pick an original research project on a proposed topic which would undoubtedly be inspired by your studies in a Masters course.

Where should I go?

Universities offer MA’s, MPhil’s and PhD’s in American Studies but it is important to do your research when it comes to teaching and learning facilities. The UEA (University of East Anglia) for example has the Arthur Miller Centre, a well-funded research centre that promotes the study of American Studies throughout Europe. The centre also sponsors an annual international literary festival that brings major writers from around the world to the UEA. Recent visitors have included Martin Amis, Ian McEwan, Clive James, Salman and many more. Having a good research centre or extensive library at the university you choose will help you get the most out of your course.

What do I need?

A minimum of a 2.1 in a first degree or international equivalent is usually required to gain entry to postgraduate courses in American Studies but there may be exceptions so check the universities application literature. Your first degree need not be in American Studies but a demonstrable interest in the subject is a must. Application procedures vary across universities but you may be expected to submit a piece of writing in addition to your application form.

Where will it take me?

Postgraduates in American studies are very employable. A lot of postgraduates stay on to do research in the department. Others enter into careers such as teaching, journalism, tourism and finance. Another option open to postgraduates is to travel to America either to further study or pursue a career.

Postgraduate courses in American Studies are a fantastic option for graduates with an avid interest in American culture and literature. If you wish to further your studies in a subject that covers a multitude of disciplines and issues then studying a postgraduate course in American Studies should be your first choice. For more information on postgraduate courses in American studies visit the British Association for American Studies, www.baas.ac.uk.