America is not just a country. It is an idea, a myth, and a symbol to the world. It is often thought of as the grand experiment in its democratic principles and cultural complexity. Rich, multifaceted, and vast—there is only one way to tackle this monumental subject—through the many-sided prism of multiple disciplines.

Why Choose Nazareth for American Studies?

With the American studies degree program at Nazareth University, students choose from a wide range of courses that view American ideas and people within the context of history, the humanities, and the social sciences. The history of social science in America, the American presidency, U.S. constitutional history, the Vietnam War, American art and literature—these are just a few of the courses students may integrate into their degree.

At the heart of the American studies major is the senior seminar—an immersive experience where students delve into a period or theme of their choice (such as the Gilded Age, the Reform Movement, or the 1960s.) They then write a thesis paper and defend their work in an oral presentation.

Program Highlights

  • Students wanting to teach may get initial certification in the inclusive education (quad certification grades 1-6) program in American studies.
  • Emphasis on critical thinking, writing, and oral presentation skills.
  • Multidisciplinary approach that views the topic from historical, cultural, psychological, economic, social, and religious perspectives.
  • Study abroad option: Take part in America week in Hungary while learning about the Hungarian culture.
Study abroad in Hungary as part of the American Studies degree program, American Studies major

Program Highlight: Study Abroad in Veszprém, Hungary

Nazareth also offers a master's in American studies, with an exciting study abroad opportunity at the Institute for English and American Studies at the University of Pannonia in Veszprém, Hungary.

Example Careers

  • Historian
  • Journalist, writer, or editor
  • American history teacher
  • Government administrator
  • Museum educator
  • Lawyer
  • Urban planner

Internships/Field Experiences

  • 75% of Nazareth's class of 2011 completed a form of off-campus learning (internship, teaching practicum, field experience, or clinical work) during their time at Nazareth College.

Graduate Schools/Employers

  • Brown University
  • State University of New York at Buffalo
  • Purdue University
  • George Washington University