American Studies

The American Studies Program at Brown University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the diverse and dynamic history, culture, politics, and society of the United States. This program is designed for students who are interested in understanding the complexities of American life through a variety of perspectives, including history, literature, sociology, political science, and cultural studies. Students will engage with a wide range of topics such as American identity, race and ethnicity, popular culture, gender, social movements, and the evolution of American democracy. The curriculum encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to examine how historical events and cultural phenomena have shaped contemporary America and its global influence. The program provides opportunities for research, writing, and discussion, fostering an appreciation of diverse viewpoints and promoting a nuanced understanding of American society. Students can tailor their coursework to meet their specific interests, with options to explore areas like American literature, film studies, public policy, or urban studies. The program also emphasizes experiential learning, with opportunities for internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement activities that connect academic theories to real-world applications. Graduates of the American Studies Program at Brown are well-equipped for careers in education, public service, media, non-profit organizations, or further academic pursuits. They leave with a deep understanding of the cultural, social, and political fabric of the United States, as well as the analytical tools necessary to interpret and participate in the ongoing American story.

Eight courses which include at least two 2000-level seminars, one of which must be AMST 2020; no more than half of the eight courses may be in any one discipline. Students may take courses in any department or program, with the approval of the Graduate Advisor. The program features course-work only (no thesis) and allows students to transfer one graduate credit from their home institution.

Requirements

• Personal Statement
• Transcripts 
• 3 Letters of Recommendation 
• GRE 
• TOEFL/IELTS 
• A non-refundable fee of $75 is charged for processing each application received by the Graduate School. This fee must be paid when the application is submitted.
• Graduates of non-U.S. colleges and universities who have completed the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree may apply for admission to the Brown University Graduate School. Along with the application, international applicants must provide the Graduate School with original documents or official certified copies indicating the nature and scope of their educational program. 

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

There is no specific information available regarding the financing studies for the American Studies program at Brown University. Generally, Brown University offers a range of financial aid options to support its students, including need-based grants, scholarships, and federal financial aid programs. Undergraduate students at Brown can apply for financial aid through the Office of Financial Aid, which assesses their eligibility based on family income, assets, and overall financial situation. The university aims to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, making higher education accessible to qualified applicants regardless of their economic background.

Brown University’s financial aid packages may include grants that do not require repayment, reducing the financial burden significantly. Scholarships are also available based on merit, athletic or artistic talent, or other criteria, offering additional opportunities for students to fund their studies. Besides institutional aid, students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, federal student loans, and work-study programs. The university provides extensive resources and counseling to help students navigate the financial aspects of their education, including budgeting advice and guidance on applying for various forms of aid.

For American Studies majors, the cost of attendance generally includes tuition, fees, housing, food, books, and personal expenses. The estimated undergraduate cost of attendance at Brown University fluctuates annually but generally exceeds $70,000 per year. The university's financial aid policies are designed to make this investment manageable for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Particular attention is given to supporting students who may face financial barriers to education, ensuring a diverse and inclusive academic community.

Students are advised to submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the Codie application for institutional aid each year, typically by the February deadline for undergraduates. Brown University also participates in programs like the Brown Promise, which guarantees financial aid packages that meet 100% of demonstrated financial need, regardless of family income. This approach helps alleviate the financial concerns of prospective and current students, enabling them to focus on their academic pursuits in American Studies and other disciplines.

In conclusion, while specific financing information for the American Studies program is not available, the university’s comprehensive financial aid policies, generous aid packages, and support infrastructure reflect its commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable for all students enrolled in the program.

American Studies at Brown University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex history, culture, politics, and society of the United States. The program encourages students to explore diverse perspectives through a flexible curriculum that integrates history, literature, political science, anthropology, and other social sciences and humanities. Students have the opportunity to investigate topics such as race and ethnicity, social justice, gender, urban issues, and popular culture within the American context.

The department emphasizes active engagement and critical thinking, providing students with skills to analyze various sources and develop nuanced interpretations of American life and history. The program includes coursework that spans historical periods from the colonial era to the present, allowing students to understand the development and transformation of American society over time. Additionally, students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects, participate in seminars, and engage with faculty who are leading scholars in American Studies.

Brown University’s open curriculum enables students to tailor their studies according to their interests, combining coursework from different departments, and exploring related fields such as African American Studies, Ethnic Studies, or Urban Studies. The program often promotes experiential learning opportunities including internships, community engagement, and study abroad programs, which enhance students’ understanding of American culture in diverse contexts.

Graduates of the American Studies program are prepared for a range of careers in education, public policy, journalism, cultural institutions, law, and advocacy organizations. They develop strong analytical, writing, and research skills that are highly valued in many professional settings. The program’s interdisciplinary nature fosters a broad perspective on American issues, equipping students to become informed citizens, leaders, and contributors to the understanding of American identity in a globalized world.