American Studies

Explore the major forces and ideas that have shaped the United States over centuries with the Bachelor of Arts in American Studies in the College of Liberal Arts at Temple University. American Studies focuses on an understanding of the evolving values and politics of U.S. culture through a variety of lenses. Examine the cultural impact of domestic and foreign wars, political movements, popular art, and technological advancements throughout American history. 

Learn to view–with a critical eye–the national myths and everyday realities that affect the lives and experiences of Americans. This 123-credit undergraduate degree program emphasizes reading, writing and analysis as it delves into themes and concepts central to American culture. These themes include  

• • architecture and city planning,
  • class experience,
  • gender paradigms,
  • immigration and the immigrant experience,
  • labor and mobility,
  • media and popular culture,
• • politics and political action,
  • race and ethnicity,
  • social change,
  • technology, and
  • war.

You'll analyze the patterns and connections of U.S. life inside and outside of the classroom, through established internships, as well as hands-on learning opportunities at various cultural institutions in the Greater Philadelphia region.

American Studies majors often advance to graduate studies in the humanities and social sciences, law school or medical school. They pursue careers in business, library science, education, media, museums, nonprofit organizations and social services.

Minor in American Studies

The American Studies minor is particularly useful for students majoring in journalism, business, education and other fields served by creative thinking. To satisfy the requirements of the minor, students take six courses in American Studies. Learn more about the American Studies minor.

The skills gained from a liberal arts degree are highly relevant in today's rapidly evolving world. Apply the experience and knowledge acquired in the American Studies BA program to your professional pursuits across many organizations and industries, including academics, cultural institutions, government agencies or the social sciences. The versatility of this program's curriculum helps  you graduate with valuable skill sets sought by many employers. 

American Studies majors advance to careers in numerous fields, including 

• • business, 
  • education,
  • journalism, 
  • law,
  • libraries, 
  • media, 
• • museums, 
  • nonprofit organizations, 
  • public relations, 
  • publishing and 
  • social services.

1. Make an application plan.

If you’re a first-year applicant, you’ll first want to pick a deadline goal and decide if you’d like to apply Early Action (due Nov. 1) or Regular Decision (due Feb. 1).

2. Apply using the Common Application.

Temple exclusively uses the Common Application. When completing your application for Temple, be sure to indicate whether you’re applying Early Action or Regular Decision if you’re a first-year applicant. Even if you apply before or by the Early Action deadline, you still must indicate Early Action on your application to ensure you will receive an admissions decision early. Transfer applicants do not need to select a deadline preference.

There’s an application fee of $55, which you will submit at the same time as the Common Application unless you qualify for a waiver.