American and British Studies

The American and British Studies programme at New Bulgarian University offers students an in-depth exploration of the cultures, histories, literatures, and socio-political developments of the United States and the United Kingdom. This interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the English-speaking world, combining language proficiency with critical analysis of literary works, historical events, and cultural phenomena. Students will engage in a variety of coursework that includes English language and literature, American studies, British studies, cultural studies, and contemporary issues related to the Anglophone world. The programme aims to cultivate advanced language skills, cultural awareness, and analytical abilities, preparing graduates for diverse careers in international relations, journalism, translation, education, tourism, and cultural management. The curriculum emphasizes active learning through discussions, seminars, research projects, and internships, fostering practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Students will have opportunities to participate in exchange programmes, attend guest lectures by prominent scholars, and collaborate on research initiatives that deepen their understanding of the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the English-speaking countries. Graduates of this programme will be equipped to critically analyze the influence of American and British culture globally and to communicate effectively in English across various professional contexts. The programme reflects New Bulgarian University’s commitment to providing a modern, multicultural, and innovative academic environment, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of an increasingly interconnected world.

The American and British Studies programme at New Bulgarian University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the history, culture, literature, and social dynamics of the United States and the United Kingdom. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the political, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped these two influential nations from their origins to the present day. Students will explore key historical periods, such as the colonial era, the American Revolution, the Victorian Age, and the modern era, analyzing pivotal events and their global impacts.

The programme emphasizes the study of literature and arts, offering courses in American and British literature, as well as contemporary cultural studies. Students will analyze various literary genres, from classic novels and poetry to modern narratives, gaining insights into societal values, identities, and cultural changes. Moreover, the programme includes language training and advanced English language courses to enhance students' communication skills, enabling them to critically evaluate sources and articulate complex ideas effectively.

In addition to historical and literary studies, students will examine social and cultural issues, such as identity, migration, globalization, and media influence, through a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives. The programme encourages critical thinking and intercultural competence, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, translation, diplomacy, academia, journalism, and cultural management.

Practical components, including seminars, workshops, and internships, are integrated into the curriculum to provide real-world experience and foster practical skills in research, communication, and project management. The programme also promotes international exchange opportunities, allowing students to study abroad and deepen their understanding of American and British societies firsthand.

Graduates of the American and British Studies programme will be well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and intercultural awareness necessary to succeed in diverse professional fields that require a nuanced understanding of these two global powers. The programme at New Bulgarian University is committed to fostering global citizens who appreciate cultural diversity and possess a thorough understanding of the historical and contemporary forces shaping the Atlantic world.

Program requirements for American and British Studies at New Bulgarian University include a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop students' proficiency in English language and literature, as well as their understanding of American and British cultures, history, and institutions. Students are expected to complete courses totaling a specified number of credits, which encompass core modules such as Advanced English Language Skills, British Literature from the Middle Ages to the Modern Era, American Literature and Cultural Studies, and History of the United States and the United Kingdom. Alongside these core courses, students may select from a range of elective subjects including Media and Communication, Contemporary Cultural Theories, Translation and Interpreting Techniques, and Comparative Literature. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encouraging active participation in seminars, workshops, and language labs. A significant component involves research projects and a final thesis that demonstrates the students' ability to analyze and interpret texts within cultural contexts. Additionally, students are often required to undertake internships or exchange programs to gain hands-on experience and cultural exposure. Language proficiency is assessed throughout the program, and students are expected to demonstrate a high level of command of English as evidenced by standardized testing or language certifications. Successful completion of the program requires passing all coursework, earning the required number of credits, and defending the final thesis before a faculty committee. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in teaching, translation, cultural management, journalism, international relations, and further academic research. Participation in seminars, presentations, and collaborative projects is integral to the learning process, fostering critical thinking, intercultural competence, and effective communication skills.

The financing of the American and British Studies program at New Bulgarian University is primarily supported through a combination of tuition fees, government grants, and potentially through European Union funding mechanisms aimed at promoting higher education and cultural exchange programs. Tuition fees for domestic and international students are structured according to the university’s regulations, with options for scholarship support for academically distinguished students or those with financial need. The university also encourages students to apply for various scholarships and grants that are available on national and European levels, which can offset tuition costs and provide additional financial assistance for living expenses, study materials, and exchange programs.

Additionally, the university administers funding through research grants and project-based funding, sometimes in collaboration with cultural and educational institutions, which may indirectly benefit students by supporting curricular development, guest lectures, and internships. The university’s strategic partnerships with cultural organizations and embassies may also provide avenues for financial support or sponsored exchange initiatives, thereby enhancing the financial sustainability of the program.

Students may also have access to student loans and financial aid packages based on their individual circumstances. The university’s administrative offices provide detailed information on available financial support, application procedures, and eligibility criteria to ensure students can plan their finances accordingly. Moreover, the program’s structure might include opportunities for part-time work on or off-campus, enabling students to fund their studies while gaining relevant professional experience. Overall, the financing framework of the American and British Studies program is designed to promote accessibility, academic excellence, and cultural engagement, ensuring that qualified students from diverse backgrounds can enroll and successfully complete their studies at New Bulgarian University.

American and British Studies at New Bulgarian University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to deepen students' understanding of the cultural, historical, linguistic, and literary aspects of the United States and the United Kingdom. The curriculum emphasizes bilingual proficiency, intercultural competence, and critical analysis of diverse texts and media. Throughout the program, students explore a range of topics, including American and British history, politics, literature, film, and contemporary social issues, enabling them to develop a broad perspective on Anglophone societies. Language instruction is a core component, with courses dedicated to advanced English language skills, translation, and intercultural communication, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, translation, journalism, education, and business environments requiring expertise in American and British cultures. The program also encourages engagement with real-world contexts through internships, research projects, and participation in international exchange programs. This approach aims to produce graduates who are not only proficient in English but also well-versed in the socio-cultural nuances of the Anglophone world, capable of functioning effectively in multicultural environments. Faculty members combine academic expertise with practical experience, guiding students to critical thinking and independent research skills. The program’s structure allows students to specialize in areas of personal interest, such as American literature or British politics, while maintaining a strong core curriculum. The overall goal is to cultivate graduates who can contribute meaningfully to fields including diplomacy, international business, media, education, and cultural management. With a focus on both language mastery and cultural literacy, the American and British Studies program at New Bulgarian University prepares students to navigate and excel in the globalized world of today and tomorrow, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the diverse traditions and contemporary issues of the Anglophone worlds.