Mar 28, 2024  
2010-2011 HillBook (Class of 2014) 
    
2010-2011 HillBook (Class of 2014) [ARCHIVED HILL BOOK]

American Studies


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Elizabeth Belanger, Program Director

Steering Committee:
Linzy Brekke-Aloise, History
Carole Calo, Visual and Performing Arts
Corey Dolgon, Sociology
Todd Gernes, History
Daniel Itzkovitz, English
Shane Maddock, History
Akira Motomura, Economics
John Rodrigue, History
Laura Scales, English
Peter Ubertaccio, Political Science

American Studies is a broad interdisciplinary major in which students explore the people, places and cultural artifacts of the United States. As American Studies majors, students examine American culture and society using approaches and methods from several different disciplines. American Studies majors typically take courses in History, English, Sociology, Communications, Political Science, Economics, Fine Arts, and Religion among others. The wide range of courses enables students to explore ideas and concepts across several disciplines and methodologies. True to the Liberal Arts tradition, students have the opportunity to draw upon the strengths of faculty in several departments. A major in American Studies is sometimes paired with another major such as History, Education, Political Science, Fine Arts or Communication. Graduates from this program have entered careers in museums, law, public administration, teaching, marketing and journalism. The American Studies Program leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Mission of the Program

At Stonehill, the American Studies major is built upon our belief that the study of American society and culture allows students to develop skills in critical inquiry, communication, cultural knowledge, and self-reflection that in turn engender students’ desire to shape the world beyond their classroom. As American Studies majors, students pursue a program of study that explores the values and beliefs that have shaped the experience of the American people. Through exploring “what is America?” and “who are Americans?” students will have the opportunity to position themselves as products as well as shapers of American culture. The major is also built upon a commitment to civic engagement, public service and social stewardship though internships, student teaching and community partnerships. Faculty members work with students individually, helping them to create a program of study according to their interests and goals. True to Stonehill’s broader mission, we seek to provide students the intellectual breath and critical tools necessary for creating a more just and compassionate world.

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