The Bachelor of Arts in American Culture and Literature (English) is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and strong communication skills. Students explore American literature, history, society, politics, and cultural dynamics through a multidisciplinary lens including sociology, history, art, linguistics and political science. The four-year (eight-semester) degree combines theoretical studies with analytical and interpretive skills training, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, media, translation, cultural management or further academic pursuits.
Situated in İzmir within the Faculty of Letters, this English-taught program offers students a chance to study American culture and literature in an internationally oriented environment. With exposure to both classical and contemporary texts, historical and sociopolitical contexts, and cultural criticism, students develop a deep understanding of American and global cultural developments — equipping them for global careers and a multicultural world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Credit Load: 240 ECTS credits
- Location: İzmir, Turkey
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only (typical for undergraduate programs)
- Area of study: American Culture, American Literature, Cultural & Social Studies, English-language Humanities
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of American Culture & Literature
- Introduction to American & English Literary Traditions
- Survey of American History & Cultural Foundations
- Academic Writing & Research Skills (in English)
- Foreign Language or General Education Requirement
Semester 2 – Literature & Linguistic Foundations
- Early American & English Literature (Poetry, Drama, Prose)
- Introduction to Linguistics / Language Theory
- Cultural Studies / Comparative Literature Basics
- Elective or General Education Course
Semester 3 – Genre Studies & Cultural Contexts
- Novel, Drama, and Poetry Studies
- American Literature: Colonial to 19th Century
- Elective Literature or Cultural Studies Course
- Elective Foreign/Second Language or Elective Skill Course
Semester 4 – Modern Literature & Critical Theory
- 20th Century American Literature / Contemporary Fiction & Drama
- Cultural History & Social Dynamics of America
- Critical Theory & Literary Criticism
- Elective Course (e.g. translation, media studies, cultural studies)
Semester 5 – Advanced Cultural & Literary Studies
- Contemporary American Literature & Media Culture
- Comparative Cultural Studies (U.S. & Global Contexts)
- Elective Literature or Applied Language Course
- Elective Skill / Interdisciplinary Course
Semester 6 – Specialized Topics & Interdisciplinary Courses
- American Social & Political History / Cultural Institutions
- Elective in Linguistics, Translation, Media or Culture
- Seminar / Research Methods in Cultural & Literary Studies
- Elective or Applied Course (e.g. media, media history, cultural criticism)
Semester 7 – Research, Applied Skills & Electives
- Seminar / Research Project in American Culture & Literature
- Elective Course I (specialization or interdisciplinary area)
- Elective Course II (complementary skill or elective)
- Internship / Practical Training / Project Work or Elective
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Graduation Thesis / Capstone Project in Literature, Culture, Translation or Related Field
- Elective Course III (advanced / specialization)
- Elective Course IV (applied or elective)
- Presentation & Portfolio Development / Professional Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are equipped for a broad array of career paths in sectors such as publishing, journalism, editing, translation and interpretation, media, cultural research, education and academia, public institutions (e.g. cultural affairs, diplomacy), and international organizations. They may also pursue postgraduate studies (MA/PhD) in literature, cultural studies, linguistics, translation or related fields.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the American Culture and Literature (B.A.) program means enrolling in a long-established, internationally oriented department with a rich tradition in cultural and literary studies. The program’s multidisciplinary nature — combining literature, history, culture, social sciences and language studies — offers students both intellectual depth and versatility.
With English-medium instruction, exposure to American and global cultural contexts, and opportunities for elective choices, this program is ideal for those passionate about literature, culture, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary research. Whether aiming for academic careers, media and publishing, translation, cultural management or international work, graduates leave with strong analytical, communicative, and cultural competencies.
Contact Information
Faculty of Letters – Student Advisory Service
Bornova Campus
35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 16 87
Fax: +90 232 388 11 02
Email: info@ege.edu.tr
American Culture and Literature Department – Programme Contact
Faculty of Letters
Bornova Campus, 35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 16 87
Email: americanculture@ege.edu.tr
International Office – Ege University
Bornova Campus
35100 İzmir, Türkiye
Tel: +90 232 311 10 10
Fax: +90 232 311 10 11
Email: internationaloffice@ege.edu.tr
