Interdisciplinary American Studies

Interdisciplinary American Studies at the University of Tübingen offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to the examination of American history, culture, society, and literature. This program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the diverse and dynamic aspects of the United States, drawing on methodologies from history, cultural studies, political science, literary analysis, and sociology. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students explore key topics such as American political development, social movements, racial and ethnic diversity, popular culture, and contemporary societal issues. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, cultural awareness, and analytical skills, enabling graduates to contextualize and interpret American phenomena within a global framework. The program fosters an active learning environment where students engage with primary sources, participate in discussions, and undertake research projects, often collaborating with faculty and peers. It also offers opportunities for internships, study abroad experiences, and participation in conferences to deepen practical understanding and professional development. Graduates of Interdisciplinary American Studies are well-equipped for careers in academia, journalism, cultural institutions, public policy, international relations, and other fields that require a nuanced understanding of American society and transatlantic relations. The program’s interdisciplinary nature encourages students to develop versatile skills applicable across various industries and societal sectors. Additionally, the program benefits from the university's strong emphasis on international orientation and interdisciplinary research, providing a rich academic environment for studying American studies in conjunction with European perspectives, fostering a comparative and transatlantic outlook.

Our program commences every winter semester and consists of the following areas:

Core Curriculum

Literary Studies

Cultural Studies

Elective Curriculum

Academic English

Transferable Skills

In their first and second years, students will choose one basic and one advanced module in each of the academic areas above. In their third year, students have two options: they may either continue their studies at the University of Tübingen, attending three focus modules and finally submitting their B.A. thesis to complete the program. Alternatively, students may choose the 'mobility option' to add a year to their program and go abroad and/or do an internship. Students who go abroad in their third year will return to Tübingen for their fourth year to finish their studies with three focus modules and their B.A. thesis.

The pre-requisites for studying Interdisciplinary American Studies are an excellent command of spoken and written English, as well as an interest in North American literature and culture. 

The financing of the Interdisciplinary American Studies program at the University of Tübingen is primarily supported through a combination of public funding, tuition fees, and additional financial aid options. As a public university in Germany, the University of Tübingen benefits from government funding at the federal and state levels, which ensures that education remains accessible and affordable for both domestic and international students. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs are generally low or non-existent for EU/EEA students, in accordance with German higher education policies, but international students from non-EU countries may be required to pay tuition fees, which can vary annually.

Students enrolled in the program have access to various scholarship opportunities, including those provided by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), the university's own scholarship programs, and external funding bodies. These scholarships can cover living expenses, study costs, or both, easing the financial burden and making international education more accessible. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore part-time employment opportunities on or near campus, permitted within the legal framework for international students, to support themselves financially during their studies.

The university also offers financial assistance programs, such as hardship funds and grants, for students experiencing unexpected financial difficulties. Furthermore, students may benefit from student unions and associations that provide support and additional funding for specific needs or projects. Many students also leverage loans and sponsorship programs from their home countries or international organizations to fund their education abroad.

The overall cost of living in Tübingen is relatively moderate compared to larger German cities, which helps reduce the financial strain on students. Budgeting for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses is essential, and the university provides resources and counseling to assist students in effective financial planning. By combining public funding, scholarships, part-time work, and personal savings, students can finance their studies in American Studies efficiently, making their educational experience both accessible and sustainable.

Special features

Our B.A. Program may be completed either in three or in four years. The additional year may be spent elsewhere, e.g. as an exchange student at one of our numerous partner universities in the US and Canada, or students may choose a job-related internship in Germany or abroad; a combination of both is also possible.

Professional fields

Academia, journalism and publishing, public relations, the media, etc.

Postgraduate programs

Graduates of the B.A. program with a good grade average will have the option of pursuing our M.A. program in American Studies; students with a good M.A. grade average may apply to do their PhD.