University of New England

College:  Arts and Sciences

Department: Interdisciplinary

Contact: Dr. Elizabeth DeWolfe (Chair-History Department and American Studies Coordinator) edewolfe@une.edu

Our mission is to expose students to interesting and challenging material from a variety of academic disciplines; to increase their ability to communicate skillfully in written and oral fashion; and to provide an opportunity for independent research. The study of methodology in American Studies creates self reflective, independent thinkers who can contribute to society in both intellectual and practical ways.  

The American studies minor introduces students to analytical techniques and critical theories from history, anthropology, literary studies and other liberal arts and sciences, and allows students to apply these methods in a detailed examination of American culture and institutions.

The interdisciplinary focus of the minor helps to develop skills that are essential for a successful career in business, education, social service, government service, journalism, publishing, or for further graduate school study (including law). Internship options in business, government, museums, newspapers and publishers are tailored to the career interests of students. This minor is an excellent choice that complements any major.

All admitted, matriculated students are invited to enroll in our courses and to seek a minor in American Studies.  Students seeking a program of study in American Studies should choose a major in Liberal Studies or History with a concentration in American Studies.  See Undergraduate Admissions also.

See Undergraduate Admissions.

Program Required Courses                                                                               

*One course must have the AMS prefix. At least two of the remaining four courses should represent at least two different disciplines (other than American studies), with course content focused on some aspect of American society, history, or culture in total or in comparison. At least two of the minor courses must be at the 300 or 400 level. Directed studies are available to meet particular interests when needed.

Following is a partial list of courses offered in the area of American Studies. Students may select courses from other disciplines as appropriate in consultation with the program coordinator.

AMS 202/HIS 202 - American Identity and History

AMS 204/HIS 204 - Growing up Female: A History of Girls in America

AMS 206/HIS 206 - Diaries, Journals and Letters

AMS 250/HIS 250 - American Women's History I

AMS 251/HIS 251 - American Women's History II

AMS 315/HIS 315 - Topics in American Studies

AMS 337/HIS 337 - Topics in Women's History

AMS 338/HIS 338 - American Communal Experiments

AMS 400 - Fourth - Year Seminar

AMS 470 - Internship I

Ideally, the sequence of courses would revolve around a particular focus such as an historical or a particular topic. The possibilities are many, but might include focused study of the twentieth century, women's studies, the environment or health. Courses will be selected in consultation with the AMS program coordinator. For more information on an American studies minor, contact the program coordinator.

Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2006-2007 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2006.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.