Department of American Studies

Our Mission and Philosophy

Founded in 1945, the Department of American Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, is considered to be one of the leaders in the field nationwide. As one of the oldest and best regarded American Studies departments, we pride ourselves on dynamic and innovative teaching, cutting-edge research, and close collaborations with Washington D.C.’s cultural institutions.
What is AmSt?
Major in American Studies

The undergraduate program of American Studies offers an interdisciplinary approach to the cultural complexities of the United States and the people, places, literary and visual arts, ideas, and institutions that comprise it. This interdisciplinary focus on cultural constructions and identity is complemented with courses outside the American Studies department. Through majoring in American Studies, students will gain transferable skills in critical thinking, verbal and written communications, analytical thinking, and research, all of which are sought by employers and advanced degree programs.
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What Can You Do With A Degree in American Studies?

An American Studies degree can be shaped to fit a variety of fields and the broad skill set you acquire allows you to apply your knowledge in many exciting areas. Our students have entered into a range of dynamic industries including: Arts, Government, Academia/Education, Non-Profit/Philanthropy, Communications/Media, Advertising, Technology, Food & Hospitality Services, Entertainment, Social Services and more! Sample job titles include: • Archivist • Librarian • FBI/CIA Agent • Law Enforcement • Biographer • Park Ranger • Museum Curator • Urban Planner • Lawyer • Lobbyist
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Baltimore Ravens Training Camp August 5, 2009

Great Career Outcomes

A mayor. A lawyer. A football star and philanthropist. A museum curator. An activist. The success of our alumni is far reaching and diverse in scope.
Alumni Stories

American Studies gives me the tools to explore social issues and allows me to recognize our shared and independent experiences. My professors are helping me cultivate an understanding for the world around me and investigate ways to facilitate meaningful inclusion for all the marginalized people in society.
Alaska Burdette, Undergraduate Major
The Department has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my professional career by providing me the opportunity to present my work to faculty and students in a formal setting; serve on University committees; and develop my own syllabi and courses. Most importantly, I have forged lifelong relationships that have helped carry me throughout the process of pursuing my graduate education.
Terrance Wooten, Ph.D. Student
Our department is full of activist scholars. And artist scholars. And artivist scholars. I love that.
Ashley Minner, Ph.D. Student
Despite living and working in Baltimore, the Department of American Studies at College Park continues to feel like an academic home. The varieties of scholarship as well as the diversity and critical engagement from fellow graduate students fuel my scholarship – on campus and from afar.
Kalima Young, Ph.D. Student