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American Studies

Description

Students in the American Studies program examine the structures and dynamics that shape the lives and experiences of people within the United States in a global context. Graduates with an Associates Degree in American Studies continue their studies and work in fields as diverse as education, filmmaking, art, environmental justice, broadcasting, museum curator, public relations, journalism and others.

Degrees & Certificates

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Top Jobs in American Studies

Note: Some jobs require education or training beyond the CNM degree/certificate.

Program Information

American Studies is an interdisciplinary program drawing on history, literature, critical theory, environmental justice, gender and sexuality studies, in which students investigate how systems of racism, colonialism, capitalism, nationalism, and gender and sexual normativity impact their lives, in order to take an active role in transforming the world in which we live.

CNM’s unique program empowers students to ask questions and address issues facing our communities in the current moment. Our program is built on a foundation of critical pedagogy and designed for students who are interested in social responsibility and social justice. 

American Studies is an excellent field if you are seeking a well-rounded, interdisciplinary education in the Humanities and Social Sciences that can lead to career opportunities in a variety of fields. You will have the opportunity to participate in transfer and mentorship opportunities with UNM’s American Studies Department. Upon completion of the program, students will earn an Associate of Arts in American Studies with a Certificate of Achievement in Social Justice.

Further Studies

Once you get your Associate's Degree from CNM, you can transfer to a four-year university. The University of New Mexico has bachelor's, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in American Studies. Also, if you’re planning to transfer from CNM to UNM, look into the types of opportunities and support currently offered through the NM Humanities Now! Transfer Program. 

Other options for further related studies are:

  • Anthropology
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Education
  • Museum Studies
  • Gender Studies

Meet with an advisor to learn more about your transfer options.

Join an Organization

The American Studies Association is the largest scholarly organization focused on the interdisciplinary field of American Studies. They promote research, provide resources for teaching, and publish the American Quarterly.

Student Testimonials

"I love the beauty that art, literature, and philosophy bring to our world. Blending those fields into one major, American Studies, means I have a unified interdisciplinary program inclusive of us. Through this major, I learn about cultures and the people behind art, literature, and philosophy. I learn of people’s contributions to our world."

Jude Rich
Philosophy, English & Art

"For me American Studies is a degree plan that allows me to turn my experiences into a mechanism for change by imbuing me with a new language that I can utilize to stay engaged in our woke society." 

Deshaun Jackson
American Studies