Master of Arts in American Studies

This program emphasizes the interdisciplinary study of American society and culture. It serves students who want to investigate the American experience and apply their studies in a variety of professions, including education, government, communications, and museums. The program’s distinguishing characteristic is that the majority of its course offerings are taught by faculty trained in the discipline of American Studies and bearing the “American Studies” title. The program offers a number of concentrations including folklore, cultural history (politics, popular culture, media studies), international American Studies, material and visual culture (art, architecture, craft, land-scape, food, clothing, medicine), public heritage (museums, historic preservation, archiving, cultural resource management), race and ethnicity, and regional studies.

The campus is located in a rich cultural region, surrounded by Amish Farmlands, Gettysburg, Hershey, Steelton, Ephrata, Carlisle, York, and Harrisburg. Proximity to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and New York offer a host of research options for students. Strong ties with local educational and cultural institutions, including the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, State Museum of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Farm Museum of Landis Valley, Hershey Museum, National Civil War Museum, Dauphin County Historical Society, Cumberland County Historical Society, and other public heritage resources provide excellent learning opportunities for students.

This degree can be earned by full- or part-time study. Most 500-level courses are offered in the evening.

Degree Conferred: M.A.