The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies explores an array of topics ranging from music, advertising and film to government policy, science and religion.
Majors also complete elective courses and small, discussion-oriented seminars, culminating in a final senior research project on a topic of their choosing.
Students must meet with the department director of undergraduate studies before submitting a Declaration of Major/Minor Form.
American Studies majors must complete a senior seminar course, during which they produce a substantial capstone paper based on independent, primary-source research. Recent graduates have examined the racial politics of contemporary hip-hop, the political fight against "Donʼt Ask, Donʼt Tell" and the sustainable food movement in the American Christian community.
Note: This seminar is offered only in the fall semester. Students planning to study abroad in the fall of their senior year should take the course in their junior year.
Graduating majors may be awarded special honors in American Studies. Majors must receive a grade of A on the senior research essay written for AMST 4500W, maintain a GPA of 3.7 or higher in the major and meet GW’s special honors requirements.
