American History, Culture and Society
The Master of Arts in American History, Culture and Society at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) is a full-time, international graduate program designed for students seeking an in-depth understanding of North American history, society, and cultural developments. Over four semesters, students engage with historical events, social structures, political movements, and cultural phenomena shaping the United States and Canada. The program combines rigorous academic research with critical analysis, offering a strong foundation in historical methodology, social theory, and interdisciplinary approaches.
Located in Munich, Germany, this English-taught program emphasizes both scholarly excellence and practical research skills. Students benefit from LMU’s extensive libraries, archives, and research facilities, as well as opportunities to participate in academic conferences and collaborative projects. The program equips graduates with analytical, communication, and research skills applicable in academia, international organizations, cultural institutions, and global policy-making contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Munich
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: North American Studies
- Admission modus: Selection procedure / qualifying examination
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of North American Studies
- History of the United States and Canada
- Social and Cultural Theory
- Research Methods in History and Culture
- North American Politics and Society
Semester 2 – Advanced Topics
- Cultural and Media Studies
- Contemporary Social Issues in North America
- Comparative History and Transnational Perspectives
- Elective Modules
Semester 3 – Research & Applied Projects
- Seminar in Historical Analysis
- Social and Cultural Case Studies
- Applied Research Project
- Elective Modules
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Presentation
- Independent Research Project
- Master’s Thesis
- Presentation & Defense
- Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the M.A. in American History, Culture and Society are prepared for careers in academia, research, cultural institutions, international organizations, and public policy. Career paths include historian, cultural analyst, researcher, educator, museum or archive specialist, and policy advisor. The program equips students with advanced research, analytical, and communication skills applicable in both national and international professional contexts.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the M.A. in American History, Culture and Society at LMU Munich means joining a program that combines academic rigor with interdisciplinary perspectives. Students benefit from LMU’s extensive libraries, archives, and research facilities, as well as the expertise of internationally recognized faculty.
The program’s unique strength lies in its comprehensive focus on history, culture, and society, alongside practical research training. Graduates develop critical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, and analytical skills, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to research, cultural institutions, and policy-making processes.
Contact Information
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München – Zentrale Studienberatung
Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1
80539 Munich, Germany
Tel: +49 89 2180-9000
Fax: +49 89 2180-2967
Email: zsbatverwaltung@uni-muenchen.de
International Office – LMU Munich
Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1
80539 Munich, Germany
Tel: +49 89 2180-2823
Fax: +49 89 2180-3136
Email: international@lmu.de
