American Studies and Philosophy

The Bachelor's degree in American Studies and Philosophy at the University of Dundee offers students a unique interdisciplinary education that explores the rich cultural, historical, and philosophical aspects of the United States, combined with rigorous philosophical inquiry. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of American society, politics, literature, and history, while also engaging with fundamental philosophical questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and human experience. Throughout the course, students will examine key themes such as American identity, social justice, democracy, race relations, and the impact of philosophical ideas on contemporary issues. The programme fosters critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in law, education, public policy, journalism, research, and further academic study. Students benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes modules in American history, literature, culture, and philosophy, delivered by expert staff with extensive research interests in American Studies and philosophical disciplines. The course combines lectures, seminars, independent research projects, and opportunities for study abroad to enhance cultural awareness and language proficiency. With a strong emphasis on active learning and intellectual exploration, the programme equips students with the tools to analyze complex issues critically and engage thoughtfully with different perspectives. Throughout their studies, students will develop a range of transferable skills including research methodology, academic writing, presentation skills, and intercultural competence. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to pursue postgraduate studies or to enter various professional fields that value analytical and cultural awareness, including international relations, education, arts and media, or social services. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme encourages students to connect ideas across disciplines, fostering a deep understanding of both American culture and philosophical thought. The University of Dundee’s vibrant academic community ensures students are supported by dedicated faculty members and a range of extracurricular activities that complement their studies. Overall, the American Studies and Philosophy degree offers a rigorous, engaging, and globally relevant education designed to develop inquisitive, informed, and critically minded individuals capable of making meaningful contributions in a variety of professional and academic contexts.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 2060 Year (EEA)
• EUR 10420 Year (Non-EEA)

Tuition fees are approximate and dependent upon currency exchange rates.

• English

Course Content

The four-year MA (Honours) degree offers a range of subjects from business, the environment, humanities, and psychology.

Level 1

- 6 modules, from three or four subject areas

Level 2 (possible advanced entry - see Entry Requirements)

- 6 modules, at least four of which should be at Level 2

Level 3 MA (Honours)

- Normally 4 modules from one (single Honours) or two (joint Honours)

Level 4 (Honours)

- Normally 4 modules from one (single Honours) or two (joint Honours) subject areas chosen in Level 3.

Requirements

- Minimum Requirements:

SQA Higher: ABBB

GCE A-Level: BCC

ILC Higher: ABBB

IB Diploma: 30 points with 5, 5, 5 at HL

- Advanced Entry (to level 2):

SQA Advanced Higher: BB+BB (H) in different subjects

GCE A-Level: ABB

IB Diploma: 34 points with 6, 6, 5 at HL

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Dundee.

The Bachelor of Arts in American Studies and Philosophy at the University of Dundee offers students a unique interdisciplinary curriculum that combines in-depth study of American history, culture, literature, and society with critical engagement in philosophical thought and reasoning. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the United States’ diverse social, political, and cultural landscape, alongside rigorous philosophical inquiry that encourages analytical skills, ethical reasoning, and a deeper understanding of fundamental questions about human existence, knowledge, and morality.

Students enrolled in this program can expect to explore a range of topics such as American political systems, literature, film, music, and social movements, as well as foundational philosophical theories and contemporary debates. The curriculum often integrates lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, fostering an active and engaging learning environment. The program aims to develop skills in critical thinking, written and verbal communication, research methodology, and cross-cultural understanding, which are highly valued in various career paths including education, journalism, public policy, international relations, and philosophy-related fields.

Throughout the course, students will have opportunities for interactive learning, including discussions, debates, and possibly placements or field trips that enhance real-world understanding of American cultural and philosophical issues. The program may also encourage interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to tailor their studies based on individual interests and career goals. Assessment methods typically include essays, presentations, examinations, and project work, designed to evaluate both knowledge acquisition and analytical abilities.

The University of Dundee is committed to providing a supportive academic environment equipped with modern facilities, dedicated library resources, and access to various scholarly activities. The American Studies and Philosophy program aims to prepare graduates with critical, analytical, and intercultural competencies, equipping them for further postgraduate study or professional careers where understanding nuanced cultural and philosophical perspectives are essential. The program duration is normally three years full-time, with flexible options for part-time study. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, societies, and international exchanges to enrich their academic experience and foster personal growth.

Overall, this interdisciplinary program at Dundee aims to produce well-rounded graduates capable of thinking critically, engaging thoughtfully with complex issues, and contributing meaningfully within diverse professional and social contexts, particularly where understanding American cultural and philosophical themes is an asset.