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
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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
Department News
The most up-to-date information about what’s happening in the Department of American Studies.
Janelle Wong Discusses Affirmative Action with NBC News
Dr. Janelle Wong recently spoke with NBC News about the controversy surrounding Harvard...
Dr. Sies Receives “Most Valuable Professor” Award!
On February 21st, Dr. Mary Corbin Sies (far left) received the “Most...
Dr. Farman Talks “Delayed Response” with The Atlantic
Dr. Jason Farman recently sat down for a fascinating interview with The Atlantic...
Nothing can prepare you for that for which you cannot prepare….
“On Why We Cannot Have a Moment of Silence for Lt. Richard Collins, III”...
Paoletti Interviewed for Associated Press on Gender Neutral Clothing
American Studies Professor Dr. Jo Paoletti is interviewed for this AP piece on gender...
Hanhardt Wins Book Award
Congratulations go out to the Department of American Studies’ Dr. Christina...
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If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call or fill out the form below.