Academic Program in American Studies
Students who want to major in Comparative American studies should meet with a department faculty member or the department chair to propose a program of study.
Program Requirements
The Department of Comparative American Studies encourages students to personalize the major by choosing an individual focus within one of three concentrations. Students select classes that address their interests within a framework of course offerings designed to build conceptual and practical skills. The program particularly emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and communication as aspects of civic engagement. Concentrations in the CAS program include:
- Identity and diversity
- Globalization, transnationalism, and nation
- Histories and practices of social change
Students acquire the skills to participate in projects addressing diversity issues and put theory into practice in order to build community awareness, activism, and involvement. Graduates choose employment in a wide range of fields including social service, education, public health, arts and media, psychology, and public administration. CAS majors have also sought graduate education in social work, public health, American studies, and ethnic studies.