Arizona State University (Tempe campus)
American Studies, BA
Study detals
: Bachelor's degree : American Studies, BA LAAMRSTBA : Full time : 48 MonthRequirements
Academic requirements
First-year students must:
- Have a 3.00 grade point average (GPA) (a "B" or better where "A"=4.00) from a secondary school. Some ASU programs may have higher admission or English proficiency requirements and may consider a minimum ACT or SAT score.
- Must have three years of high school coursework. (If you are currently in high school, ASU needs to see 9–11 grade coursework. If you have completed high school, ASU needs to see 10–12 grade coursework.)
- Must have and present a completed high school diploma or certificate.
Conditional admission
ASU may offer conditional undergraduate admission to international applicants to an on-campus program who meet the academic (aptitude) requirements but who are not proficient in English. This offer of conditional admission will give you time to improve your English proficiency before you start classes at ASU. Your conditional admission offer is good for up to three semesters, during which time you must meet one of these requirements to begin your ASU experience.
Competency requirements
International students who completed high school outside the U.S. are required to meet the following competency requirements:
- Math: four years (algebra I, geometry, algebra II and one course requiring algebra II as a prerequisite).
- Laboratory science: three years total (one year each from any of the following areas are accepted: biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences and physics).
Provide evidence of English language proficiency (TOEFL 61)
Additional information
Program description
The BA program in American studies bridges multiple disciplinary approaches to explore the diverse cultures, global impact, social systems, gendered experiences, socioeconomic realities and political thought of the United States. The field of American studies centers an understanding of diversity in U.S. society; understanding of how the U.S. national community represents and imagines itself; understanding of how this resonates globally; and understanding the role of social movements seeking to achieve political, legal and economic change.
The program trains students in the history and trajectory of the field of American studies; explorations of racial literacy, gender, sexuality and socioeconomic experiences grounded in historical contexts that help in understanding contemporary U.S. populations; critical methodologies, including how alternative voices are key in research, politics and policy, and social justice work; applied research methods, particularly those that involve community involvement and engagement; and the use of storytelling and narratives to represent diverse communities and facilitate broader understanding across groups.
Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Global opportunities
Global experience
With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, American studies students are able to tailor their experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network.
Career opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in policy, education and teaching, urban planning, sustainability, sociopolitical movements, environmental impacts, advocacy, nonprofit organizations, government, journalism, law and justice, public safety and health. This degree program is also well suited for pairing with other professional degrees that prepare students for these careers.