American Studies

There is no doubt that the US is the dominant cultural and economic force in the world and, for good or evil, there is surely no better way to understanding the nature of the modern world than understanding the country that put a man on the moon, went to war with Vietnam, produced jazz and invented fast food.

American studies is the very definition of a multidisciplinary course, giving you the chance to study a hit of literature, a bit of history and a bit of politics, with film and cultural studies and, possibly, some travel thrown in. In many ways and in many places, American studies is the archetypal modular degree course. Typically, you might start with an introduction to the literature, politics and history of the US before specialising in particular periods or areas of interest. Some universities allow greater scope for the study of contemporary culture through areas such as film studies, popular music or visual arts, while others are more akin to a traditional arts course. If you like the idea of the reading, essay and research skills a course in English or history would develop but want the flexibility to study a few different subjects, then you could he on to a winner. You don't have to approve of the President or the general direction of US politics or society to study it, but you will need a level of tolerance for all things American. Or you'll go round the bend.

While it might not be unpleasant to rub shoulders with students from the English, history, human geography and politics departments, it does mean that you have a range of different areas to get to grips with. And don't go thinking it's a softer option compared to other humanities courses. It's not something you should pick up if you can't do an English degree - you'll be studying the individual components to the same level as you would if that was your course in its entirety. It is, however, a useful degree course to keep your options open. Employment prospects are good: as with any arts degree, graduates can try their hands at marketing or advertising or the media - any of the normally productive areas for humanities graduates. You'll be good on analysis and presentation, and that counts. You might also he keen on travel - many courses allow you to go west like the pioneers did before you and study at an American or Canadian university.

Entry requirements tend to be pretty flexible: English, history or humanities A-levels can he an advantage. Assessment can be exam- or coursework-based, and you are likely to have to do a dissertation and complete some form of credit during any time abroad.

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