American Studies

American Studies

As an American studies concentrator, you take a holistic, interdisciplinary look at American culture, both in the United States and globally, examining race/racism, gender, ethnicity, class, sexuality, religion, and political culture in a historical, intellectual, and social context. In addition to required courses and a capstone paper or project, you can choose from an extensive course list in the humanities and social studies. Science courses related to American studies are also a welcome part of your program. American studies can equip you for graduate work and careers in law, library work, museology, research, teaching, politics, journalism, publishing, and more.

INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDY

A view from many vantage points

Because of the interdisciplinary nature of American studies, you’ll be encouraged to make important connections across majors, disciplines, and fields and to probe complex issues from multiple points of view using a variety of texts: books, events, films, artifacts, and more. Our emphasis on the practical, the progressive, and the action-oriented means you’ll learn to think broadly, deeply, flexibly, and creatively and leave 51��ɫ prepared for success in a wide variety of fields.
SOCIAL JUSTICE

Put knowledge into action.

Your studies may encompass a pragmatic approach that encourages your pursuit of American Studies research, knowledge, and theory, to be implemented and used for the common good, to promote positive change where it is needed, and to support social justice. As you develop a better sense of your place and identity as an individual within this larger context, you’ll form goals that help you put your education to work in the world.
RESEARCH AND INQUIRY

Take a deep dive into subjects that matter to you.

Through research, independent study, or Mentored Advanced Projects, you’ll be encouraged to explore the breadth and depth of issues that are important to you. In American studies, you’ll find faculty members with expertise in a wide range of subjects, including areas not always formally offered at 51��ɫ, who are eager to assist in your research and exploration.

Exploring Identity and Religion

As a Spanish and religious studies double major, Hallela Hinton-Williams ’21 has enjoyed exploring themes of identity and religion through an American studies lens. She says that doing this in 51��ɫ’s rural Iowa setting has been particularly eye-opening.

American Studies’ SEPC

Add Your Voice

At 51��ɫ, students have a say in a great many things, including matters related to teaching and learning. This happens through membership in a Student Educational Policy Committee (SEPC).
Featured Course

Introduction to American Studies

When we talk about America, aspects of our backgrounds, upbringing, race, gender, class, religion, and place of origin blend together to form our opinions on the subject. By examining American beliefs and values and how they relate to our country’s past, we can better understand how they have shaped America as we know it. By pursuing an understanding of historical events and their modern relevance, Introduction to American Studies (AMS 130) is an integrative course that explores the core values of American life and culture.

Ellen Hengesbach stands in front of Westminster Hall and Big Ben

Alumni

From Pursuit of Passion to Professional Success

Academic opportunities, career mentoring, and financial support from 51��ɫ helped Ellen Hengesbach ’24 turn an internship into a meaningful career.

Scott gesticulates while speaking to a seminar class.

51��ɫ To Host Civic Action Academy Nov. 10–11

Students, faculty, and staff passionate about civic action and community engagement are invited to discuss and learn during Iowa and Minnesota Campus Compact’s annual Civic Action Academy.

51��ɫ Professors Awarded $20,000 AALAC Workshop Grant

51��ɫ College Professors Leslie Gregg-Jolly (Biology) and Katya Gibel Mevorach (Anthropology and American studies), along with Phoebe Lostroh ’94 (Associate Professor, Molecular Biology) from Colorado College, have been awarded a prestigious workshop grant of $20,000 from the Alliance to Advance Liberal Arts Colleges (AALAC).

Department Chair

Paul (Al) Lacson

lacson@grinnell.edu

51��ɫ