BA (Hons) American Studies and War Studies

BA (Hons) American Studies and War Studies

Allowing you to explore 2 fascinating areas in great depth, this course is a great choice if you have varied interests and prefer not to be tied down to a single academic discipline. The transferable skills you will develop on this course include analytical thinking, verbal and written communication, constructing arguments and presentation skills.

Through your War Studies modules you will investigate the process of war, exploring how they develop and how they are resolved. You will discuss the wider social consequences of past conflict and consider their effect on the present day. Topics you could study within your War Studies modules include everything from Ancient Rome to the Napoleonic Wars, to the Cold War and the War on Terror.

On your American Studies modules, you will explore America’s place within the world throughout history and its impact on global culture and politics today. By studying American history, literature, cinema, popular culture and music, you will build a comprehensive understanding of the USA as a cultural construct and a world power.

Through our workplace learning modules you will build employable skills and take advantage of some of the great opportunities which come from studying in a city with such a rich history. Our connections include York Museums Trust, York Explore and Yorkshire Film Archive. Through these partnerships you can explore archived treasures, create historical exhibitions and build professional networks.

You can also choose to study abroad in your second year, experiencing America for yourself. You will gain valuable experience of living in another country, developing your independence and initiative.

If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

  • 104 UCAS Tariff points
  • 3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language.

International Students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

Career Prospects

This broad, interdisciplinary degree opens up a wide variety of career options. This course teaches you to solve complex problems through independent critical thinking, use varied sources of information to form conclusions, and present your arguments both verbally and in writing. These are valuable skills in diverse professional settings.

This degree could be the first step toward your career in:

  • Journalism
  • Heritage and Tourism
  • The armed forces
  • Civil service
  • International aid
  • Law

Course Details

Year 1

Introduction to American Studies
Introduction to War Studies
War and Society
Why Wars Begin
War and the Media
Cinema and Society
United States: Empire of Liberty?

Year 2

History, Community and Culture
Literature at Work
War in the West
Mapping America
The Nation Divided: The Civil War Era in American Life
From Slavery to Freedom
From Harlem to Hip-Hop: African American Literature and Culture
The Face of Battle
Peace Organisations
Conflicting Words

Year 3

Dissertation in American Studies OR Dissertation in War Studies
American Radicals: Outside the Canon
Special Subject modules in American Studies or War Studies

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

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