American Studies Program

American Studies Office
4095 JFSB

Kristin Matthews, Coordinator
4160 JFSB, (801) 422-5295

College of Humanities Advisement Center
1175 JFSB, (801) 422-4789

Admission to Program

The American Studies degree program is open enrollment.

The Discipline

The American Studies major examines the sweep of American experience, society, culture, and civilization from a variety of viewpoints—literature, history, gender, humanities, regions, politics, ethnic groups, geography, art, economics, religion, and folklore—based in core courses designed to examine the American experience from a variety of standpoints. Majors are encouraged to develop particular skills in writing; literary criticism; historical research; and social, political, and economic analysis. The program provides not only rich interdisciplinary experience but also exposure to a variety of excellent scholars and teachers.

Career Opportunities

On graduation, American Studies students are usually qualified to enter graduate and professional schools (for law, MBA, MPA, PhD), government or community service, or advanced graduate studies in the liberal arts, including American studies, American civilization, American culture, American history, and American literature.

Graduation Requirements

To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:

• The university core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education. (See University Core for details. For a complete listing of courses that meet university core requirements, see the current class schedule.)
• At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
• A minimum of 120 credit hours
• A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
• Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office

Undergraduate Programs and Degrees

BA in American Studies

Minor in Western American Studies

Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.