American Studies (Honors)
The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies (Honors) at University of Stanford provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the cultural, historical, political, and social dimensions of the United States and Australasia. In the early years, students explore foundational courses in American history, literature, political institutions, cultural studies, and research methods. These courses foster critical thinking, analytical skills, cultural awareness, and research competence, enabling students to examine the historical and contemporary dynamics of society. Through lectures, discussions, and research assignments, learners develop the ability to interpret cultural texts, assess historical developments, and understand the social forces shaping American and Australasian communities.
As students progress into upper-level coursework, they engage in specialized seminars, independent research, and thematic studies focused on politics, race, identity, media, and transnational influences. The honors curriculum emphasizes rigorous research, interdisciplinary analysis, and experiential learning, refining students’ research methodology, critical evaluation, writing proficiency, and interdisciplinary insight. By graduation, students gain the intellectual depth and practical experience necessary to contribute meaningfully to academic scholarship, public policy, media analysis, and cultural interpretation, with a nuanced understanding of American and Australasian societies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: American Studies (Honors)
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Stanford University, United States
- Field of Study: American and Australasian studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in American Studies
• Introduction to American History and Culture
• Foundations of Political Institutions
• Literature and Cultural Analysis
• Writing and Research in Social Sciences
• Seminar: Social and Cultural Contexts
Year 2 – Core Interdisciplinary Studies
• Race, Identity, and Society
• Media and Communication in the U.S. and Australasia
• Comparative Political and Social Systems
• Research Methods and Archival Studies
• Seminar: Historical and Cultural Analysis
Year 3 – Advanced Specialization
• Transnational and Global Perspectives
• Politics, Society, and Culture in Depth
• Independent Research Projects
• Advanced Seminar in American Studies
• Electives in History, Politics, or Cultural Studies
Year 4 – Honors Thesis and Capstone
• Honors Thesis or Research Project
• Seminar: Contemporary Issues in American and Australasian Studies
• Policy, Media, and Cultural Analysis
• Fieldwork and Applied Research Projects
• Specialized Electives in American and Australasian Studies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in research, academia, public policy, media, cultural institutions, journalism, and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum develops analytical reasoning, research skills, critical evaluation, and cultural literacy, enabling students to pursue roles as policy analysts, cultural researchers, educators, journalists, or program managers in civic organizations. The honors component provides additional experience in independent research, critical writing, and interdisciplinary analysis, strengthening preparation for graduate study or professional specialization. Graduates are equipped to analyze complex social and cultural dynamics and contribute meaningfully to public discourse, policy development, and cultural understanding.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who wish to study the history, culture, and society of the United States and Australasia through a rigorous, interdisciplinary, and research-focused curriculum. Its honors structure emphasizes critical thinking, research competence, analytical skills, and cultural understanding, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical research experience. Through seminars, independent projects, and fieldwork, learners gain the skills to examine social, political, and cultural issues, interpret historical and contemporary texts, and engage with complex societal challenges. Graduates leave with the expertise, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in research, media, education, public policy, or advanced academic study.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
