American Studies (with a study abroad year) BA (Hons)

Take an interdisciplinary approach to studying America by examining its history, politics, literature and culture. By studying the nation that has played a pivotal role in shaping the 20th and 21st centuries, you'll better understand the world we live in today.

You'll learn from one of the largest groups of experts dedicated to American Studies in the UK. Our faculty's broad research interests are reflected in our options, allowing you to tailor your course according to the areas that interest you. Sussex also fosters an active student community, through activities including an undergraduate seminar series featuring international speakers.

You'll have the opportunity to study for a year at a university in North America – including our prestigious partner institutions like UC Berkeley and Georgetown – building your confidence and expanding your intellectual horizons.

30 -32 points overall from the full IB Diploma.

Advanced – 67 overall, including at least 62 in all four skills
Standard - 59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills

Please refer to our English language requirements above, and as listed for each of our undergraduate courses, to find the appropriate English level for the course you are applying for.

Advanced – 95 overall, including at least 22 in Listening, 23 in Reading, 23 in Speaking, 24 in Writing
Standard – 80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing

You gain skills in critical thinking across disciplines, attention to detail, flexibility of thought, self-confidence, teamwork, research and written communication.

Using the cultural and social insights from your year abroad, you can work in fields such as:

• design
• media and publishing
• public relations and marketing
• business and research
• arts and events
• the Civil Service
• non-profit organisations.

Graduate destinations

Our recent American Studies graduates have started work as:

• Junior Account Executive, Alexandra Public Relations
• Fundraising and Social Media Officer, St Michael's Fellowship
• Education Co-ordinator, Whitechapel Gallery

(School of Media, Arts and Humanities careers database) 

Working while you study

Our Careers and Employability Centre can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work

I couldn't have done any of this without Sussex. Living and studying in another country has been crucial to my career.â€‌Lucy Westcott
International Reporter, Newsweek