American Cultural Studies, BA

American Cultural Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies

70 Credits

Introduction/What is the Study of American Cultural Studies?

American Cultural Studies allows students and faculty to address issues such as race/ethnicity, educational equity, social and cultural theory, socio-economic class, as well as gender and sexual orientation while analyzing the formation of identities in societies. The program in American Cultural Studies concentrates on the Americanization process, American character, American cultural institutions and/or cultural values, particularly as these shape our concepts and society. ACS serves those students and faculty who are interested in the study of such questions, but find that important aspects of cultural theory, artifacts and values are not fully revealed by the course of study within a single department or college. The program allows students the opportunity to study issues arising specifically from the cultural diversity in American society. Whenever possible, the program takes advantages of the rich curricular offerings of the various departments and colleges within the university.

Why Consider an American Cultural Studies Major? 

Students who want a liberal arts education of breadth and depth will find that, because of its flexibility, the program adapts well to their needs. The ACS major combines the social sciences with humanities to prepare students with a rich undergraduate background for advanced study in law, domestic social services, public service, government service, education, and graduate work in American studies, ethnic studies and the social sciences.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

A formal program of study is initially designed by the student in consultation with a member of the American Cultural Studies faculty. The program is then approved by the Director of American Cultural Studies. No program of study may substantially duplicate an existing departmental or college program. Ordinarily, final approval of the course of study must be granted before senior status is reached.

The student may propose a broad, general program in American Cultural Studies, social science or education concentrations, or focus on one major aspect, for example: ethnic studies, sexuality, myth and folklore or Pacific Northwest studies. In any case, the proposed program must include substantial upper-division work in at least two curricular units of the University. These may include Fairhaven or Huxley colleges.

The faculty recommends that students use a minor to develop special career interests or foci (see, for example, the Asian American Studies minor), or to develop additional depth in one of the traditional academic disciplines or programs of the University.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.