American Studies
Understand the stories and systems that shape American life.
Why American studies matters:
Life in our country is shaped by interconnected, interdisciplinary forces including politics, culture, history, and more. American studies equips students to critically examine national narratives and understand how they affect the experience of living in the U.S. today. This provides a powerful lens for exploring what America is, has been, and could become.
How American studies is taught at Muhlenberg:
American studies is an interdisciplinary major grounded in literature, history, and political science, with room to explore everything from popular culture to environmental justice. Students design a pathway aligned with their interests, supported by close faculty mentorship and opportunities for civic engagement, research, or experiential learning.
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American studies students build a strong foundation in U.S. literature, history, and political culture, then customize their studies with courses across disciplines like sociology, art, religion, women’s and gender studies, economics, and more. With faculty guidance, you’ll shape a program that reflects your interests and helps you explore the ideas, movements, and cultural forces that have shaped American life.
This flexibility encourages creative, critical inquiry while giving you the tools to connect themes across concepts, like identity and belonging, space and place, media and politics, or race and resistance.
Students who are especially motivated and interested in graduate study may be invited to complete an honors thesis, which involves year-long independent research supported by faculty mentors.
American studies at Muhlenberg encourages you to take your learning beyond the classroom — into communities, archives, media, and public life. Many students pursue internships with museums, cultural institutions, nonprofits, and civic organizations, applying what they’ve learned to real-world challenges and gaining valuable professional experience along the way.
Courses often explore contemporary issues — like immigration, race and representation, or American political culture — through hands-on projects, critical reflection, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students also frequently pair American studies with study away, community-based research, or creative work that connects academic inquiry with impact.
This is a major for those who want to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and make meaning — not just study it.
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Powerful Outcomes
A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors.
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