American Studies
Join us at Stetson and transform your understanding of American culture into a robust academic journey. Using an interdisciplinary approach, you'll explore the historical, literary, psychological, economic, political, religious, scientific and pop culture influences that shape society in one of the first American Studies programs in the country, established in 1955.
Why American Studies at Stetson University?
If you're fascinated by multiple fields and can't decide on a single major, American Studies is perfect for you. This interdisciplinary program lets you explore various subjects, effectively creating a major that connects different fields.
At Stetson, American Studies classes are small, with no more than 30 students in lower-division courses and fewer than 10 in upper-division classes, ensuring plenty of interaction with professors and peers. A unique feature is the Focus Area, allowing you to tailor over a third of your major or minor. You can delve into topics that interest you and explore connections across fields.
Learn more about the Department of American Studies.
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"I chose Stetson because of the law school and the history program’s excellent reputation. While at Stetson I was able to participate in experiential learning opportunities like Teach the Truth Tour, a public history internship, Stetson archivists, travel and research,"
Carlye Mahler ’24, American Studies, Gender Studies
"Stetson took a chance on a kid from West Orlando, where violence ran rampant. … I had no idea that four years from that point, I would be standing here … as a graduate from Stetson University."
D’Angelo Brown ’22, Political Science and American Studies, currently with The Politics Company
Career Outcomes
Wondering how Americans think, what they've done in the past, and what they might do in the future? Understanding the variety and interconnectedness of American cultures prepares you for many careers. This well-rounded education, engaging various liberal arts subjects, makes you an attractive candidate to employers who value creative thinking and the ability to see connections.
As an American Studies major, you can pursue careers in the State Department, libraries, art galleries, photography, museums, university teaching and administration, high schools, city planning, scientific research, the travel industry, law, counseling, writing, and the music business. The American Studies Association lists various job openings and opportunities. Additionally, a degree in American Studies is a strong foundation for graduate education in law or public policy.
As you begin your journey, you will work with some of our distinguished faculty and dedicated professionals who will provide you with personal attention and expert guidance to help you thrive academically and professionally.
- Michael Barnes, PhD, University of South Carolina, English
- Emily Mieras, PhD, College of William and Mary, history and American Studies
- Steven Smallpage, PhD, Michigan State University, political science
- Sven Smith, PhD, University of Florida, sociology
- John Tichenor, PhD, Florida State University, management
The American Studies Program offers both a major and a minor, allowing you to explore perspectives from fields like history, literature, sociology, anthropology, psychology, politics, religion, the arts, business, and the natural sciences. This interdisciplinary approach gives you a comprehensive understanding of American experiences and their connections to our complex world.
A unique feature of the program is the Focus Area, where you design part of your major by choosing courses from different disciplines around a common theme. You'll select four courses that explore a theme, such as culture and the arts, gender and popular culture, race and politics, or religion and values. By the end of your junior year's first semester, you'll present a written Focus Statement to the Program Chair, detailing your theme and course selection.
For minors, the Mini-Focus Area requires two courses and a similar Focus Statement. Of the five courses required for the minor, two will be in your Focus Area.
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