American Studies Certificate

In-depth study of contemporary American Literature (1945–Present), including fiction, poetry and drama, from a particular critical, cultural, historical or philosophical perspective.

Examines the history of American food and its relationship to identity in terms of nationality, race, gender, religion, politics and other categories. Emphasis on the meanings Americans have assigned to food and eating over time.

A survey of film in America, from its beginnings to its contemporary manifestations, focused on its aesthetic sociocultural and industrial contexts. The class includes readings, screenings and discussions of American “independent” films as well as mainstream Hollywood releases.

Examines the common stereotypes and media (mis)interpretations of indigenous peoples and cultures in order to see beyond such one-dimensional portrayals of the American Indian. Introduction to a number of important themes in the history of Native American peoples over the last 500 years, including colonization, culture change and sovereignty. Students gain a sense of the richness and diversity of Native American culture and experience.

Culture, cultural diversity and multiculturalism constitute some of the most significant social issues in America today. Oriented around the core concept of culture and cultural groups; designed to introduce the student to the basic concepts of culture and cultural diversity and develop an awareness and appreciation for the full range of diversity in the American (U.S.) culture. Special time and attention devoted to the origins, development and consequences of the diversity that plays such a central role in the lives of people in this nation-state culture.