Swansea University

What you'll study

This single‑honours BA provides a broad, interdisciplinary introduction to American history, literature, politics and visual culture, with increasing scope for specialisation as you progress. Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops and independent research.

• Year 1 (Level 4): core modules introduce US history and culture, basic approaches to literary and cultural analysis, and skills in research and academic writing. You will also study modules that situate American culture within global and transatlantic contexts.
• Year 2 (Level 5): thematic and period modules allow deeper study of topics such as 20th‑century US history, American literature since 1945, race and ethnicity in the United States, and popular culture (film, television and music). You will normally be introduced to research methods relevant to humanities and social sciences.
• Year 3 (Level 6): advanced options and a substantial independent dissertation or major project on a chosen topic in American Studies. Optional modules may cover US foreign policy, indigenous/Native American studies, gender and sexuality in American culture, migration and diaspora, media and visual culture, and digital humanities approaches.
• Across all years there are opportunities for language study, work‑based learning or an international exchange, depending on availability and your chosen pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education to a level equivalent to UK A‑levels or an international qualification. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strengths in humanities or social‑science subjects and show evidence of strong written communication and independent study skills.

Typical offers take account of different national qualifications and may include combinations of A‑levels, the International Baccalaureate, BTECs, or recognised international equivalents. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or life experience are welcomed and assessed on a case‑by‑case basis. International students are required to meet English language requirements appropriate for undergraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates from American Studies pursue a wide range of careers thanks to their analytical, research and communication skills. Common destinations include:

• journalism, media and publishing
• public relations, marketing and cultural organisations
• education and teaching (often following additional teacher training)
• government, policy analysis and international relations
• heritage and museums, arts administration
• further study at MA or PhD level in literature, history, cultural studies, or related fields

The degree also provides a solid foundation for careers that value critical thinking, written communication and interdisciplinary methods.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea offers a compact campus with close access to research-active staff and small‑group teaching. The university's humanities provision emphasises interdisciplinary study and benefits from staff expertise in American literature, history and cultural studies. Students can take advantage of library collections, research seminars and visiting-speaker programmes that complement teaching.

Practical support is available through the Careers and Employability services, which help with placements, internships and applying for postgraduate study. There are also opportunities for study abroad through established partner institutions, and a range of student societies and events that allow you to pursue cultural and extracurricular interests alongside your degree.