Bachelor of Arts-American Studies Major

Exciting Curriculum

American Studies at Wheelock offers students the opportunity to explore a range of topics including race in American society, the influence of the media, and the role of women in society. This major enables students to examine these areas through multidisciplinary study that incorporates content and methods from psychology, sociology, history, art, and literature. Together with faculty, students develop an individualized program of study that meets their interests and expands their understanding the diverse groups and individuals that have contributed to the richness and complexity of American culture.

Major Courses

Courses include American Identities; Women, Culture, and Society; African-American Women Writers; Race, Media, and Education in American Society, and Children and Families in American Society.

Additional Options

Students can major in American Studies with or without a degree concentration. American Studies is also offered as a minor.

Professional Advantages

Because American Studies introduces students to an in-depth understanding of American culture, it opens the way for becoming a professional able to work with the many groups that make up our society, a key advantage in a time when professionals are sought after in settings rich in diversity, such as urban schools. American Studies also gives you the ability to understand human behavior from multiple perspectives, an ability that you carry with you throughout your life as a citizen, a professional, and a leader in your field.

Faculty Highlights

The American Studies faculty engages in scholarly, professional activity that reflects the wide-ranging scope of study in this field. Gail Dines researches and teaches about the effects of media, especially television, on women and men, and looks at how society impacts our gender identity. Mary Battenfeld teaches courses that encourage students to think critically about the history and culture of American Society, and conducts research on the history of adoption in America. Joyce Hope Scott focuses on African-American culture and the impact of this culture on American society and American literature, film, music and theater.

Who You Can Become

A love of learning propels you into a world of ideas that opens doors to exciting professions as well as stimulating graduate programs. In addition to working in education, social work, and child care, graduates in American Studies have careers such varied professions as museum education, violence prevention organizations, newspapers, theatres, and media education foundations. Others have gone on to law school and graduate programs in a range of areas.

Why Wheelock

American Studies at Wheelock offers students a wide selection of courses beyond those found in other American Studies undergraduate programs. We also work with students to craft a major that enables them to study — in depth — areas that interest them intellectually and speak to their passions. We also take advantage of the many major cultural events in Boston that relate to class discussions.

Contact Information:

For any questions or further information concerning this or any Wheelock College major or concentration, please contact:

Wheelock College
Undergraduate Admissions
200 The Riverway
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 879-2206
1-800-734-5212
undergrad@wheelock.edu
www.wheelock.edu