American studies is the interdisciplinary study of the American experience, past and present. Students pursuing an American Studies degree draw on course offerings from across the University as they explore, analyze, and interpret American culture and society.

The major and the minor in American Studies offer students the flexibility to design a course of study focused on their unique interests and career goals.

American Studies at UT Dallas

American studies majors, in consultation with the program head, construct two concentrations in which the majority of the upper-division coursework for the major is carried out. Each concentration must be interdisciplinary and attentive to historicity, but within those parameters, students have a great deal of latitude to develop individualized programs of study. Possible concentrations include:

• American Legal System
• Gender in American Culture & Society
• American Popular Culture
• Political and Social Movements
• U.S. and the World
• Race and Ethnicity in American Life
• Business in America
• The American Environment
• Media and Communication Studies
• Politics in American Society
• Technology in American Life

Please see our website for the most current information.

Careers in American Studies

A degree in American Studies can prepare students for careers in nonprofit organizations, government, cultural industries, and the media, as well as in the corporate world. The bachelor’s degree in American studies is an excellent preparation for law or graduate school.

The University’s Career Center is an important resource for students pursuing postgraduation employment. Licensed counselors are available to provide strategies for mastering job interviews, writing professional cover letters and resumes and connecting with campus recruiters, among other services.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

About the School of Interdisciplinary Studies

The programs of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies (IS) provide students with a broad learning experience. Because of the individualized focus and flexibility, the program is appropriate for both students preparing to enter the workplace and those planning to continue their studies. IS students are encouraged to customize a degree plan using two or more disciplines — a combination of business and the social sciences, for example — or they can tailor degrees in American studies or Healthcare studies around topics of interest.

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts: American studies, interdisciplinary studies

Bachelor of Science: Healthcare studies, interdisciplinary studies

Master of Arts: Interdisciplinary studies

Minors Offered

If your academic focus leads you elsewhere at UT Dallas, but you would still like to pursue studies in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies, the following minors are available:

• American Studies
• Environmental Studies
• Exercise Sciences
• Gender Studies
• Healthcare Studies

Internships and Honors

The School of Interdisciplinary Studies internship program at UT Dallas offers students the opportunity for practical experience in their field of interest:

• Experience in a professional work environment
• Academic credit under faculty supervision
• The chance to try a career or industry before committing to a full-time employment

Additional Facts

The University’s Teacher Development Center (TDC) is housed in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and provides rigorous, university-based coursework with extensive field experience, including student teaching or a supervised post-baccalaureate internship for students interested in making teaching or school administration their career. The TDC offers teacher certification options for both undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students.