MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) American Studies and English (with a study abroad year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
This four-year undergraduate program combines the study of American culture, politics, and history with English literature, offering a comprehensive and multidisciplinary learning experience. Students engage with diverse themes including race, gender, identity, and power dynamics across American society and literary texts. A defining feature of the program is the year abroad, typically undertaken in the third year, which allows students to immerse themselves in American academic and cultural environments at partner institutions across the USA. This international experience significantly enriches academic learning and personal growth.
Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully structured to foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. In the initial years, students are introduced to core modules in American history, cultural studies, and English literature, ranging from early modern texts to contemporary writing. Modules often include titles like "Introduction to American Studies," "American History: From Revolution to Superpower," and "Literature in Context." As students progress, they can tailor their studies through optional modules on topics such as African American literature, Indigenous narratives, Cold War culture, and modern poetry. The final year culminates in a supervised dissertation, allowing students to undertake independent research on a topic of their choice.
Research Focus: The program is grounded in the University of Sussex’s reputation for cutting-edge research, particularly in the fields of American history, cultural studies, and English literature. Faculty members are active researchers who contribute to globally recognized journals and publications. Areas of research excellence include transatlantic relations, 20th-century American politics, contemporary literary theory, and postcolonial studies. Students benefit directly from this research expertise through lectures, seminars, and project supervision, which are consistently informed by the latest academic developments.
Industry Engagement: Although primarily academic, the course encourages students to think about their career trajectories beyond university. The University of Sussex supports this through internship opportunities, guest lectures from industry professionals, and career development workshops. The study abroad year also enhances employability by developing intercultural communication, adaptability, and global awareness. Graduates often pursue careers in education, publishing, journalism, media, public relations, and heritage sectors.
Global Perspective: The study abroad element of the program is a cornerstone of its international outlook. By spending a year in an American university, students gain first-hand experience of the culture and educational system they study. This global engagement fosters deeper cultural empathy and provides a comparative lens through which to examine both American and British literary traditions. Sussex’s international network and culturally diverse campus environment further enhance the global learning experience.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduating from the BA (Hons) American Studies and English (with a study abroad year) program opens a wide range of exciting career options, as the degree equips students with transferable skills highly valued by employers. The curriculum fosters expertise in writing, research, communication, and critical thinking, making graduates well-prepared for roles across diverse industries.
Publishing and Journalism: Graduates can pursue careers in publishing, editorial roles, or journalism. The program's focus on American literature and English studies provides a strong foundation for those aiming to write or edit books, articles, and other forms of media. Additionally, the study abroad year exposes students to international media landscapes, adding a global dimension to their work in publishing and journalism.
Teaching and Education: The BA (Hons) American Studies and English degree is an excellent starting point for those interested in teaching. Graduates can become English teachers or educators in American history, literature, and culture at various academic levels. The program's rigorous academic structure also prepares students for postgraduate study in education, where they can specialize in subjects related to American Studies or English language and literature.
Public Relations and Marketing: The analytical and communication skills gained throughout the program are highly sought after in public relations and marketing. Graduates can work in PR agencies, corporate communications, or marketing departments, where they can apply their understanding of narrative construction and audience engagement to craft compelling campaigns and messages.
Government and Nonprofit Sector: Students who complete this program gain a strong understanding of social and political issues in both the U.S. and globally. Graduates may choose to work in the government or nonprofit sector, contributing to policy development, international relations, and cultural exchange programs. Their research skills and ability to critically engage with complex issues make them valuable in these sectors.
International Relations and Diplomacy: The study abroad year in North America provides invaluable exposure to global perspectives, making graduates well-equipped for roles in international relations and diplomacy. Whether working for international organizations, embassies, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the cross-cultural communication skills and global awareness developed during the program are highly beneficial.
Creative Industries and Arts: Sussex’s strong connections to the creative industries open opportunities for graduates to enter the arts, including theatre, film, and television. Whether as writers, producers, curators, or critics, graduates can leverage their knowledge of American culture and literature, along with their creative thinking and problem-solving skills, in the dynamic world of creative arts.
Law and Advocacy: The critical thinking, research, and communication skills developed through the program can also lead to careers in law and advocacy. Graduates can pursue further qualifications to become solicitors, barristers, or work in human rights, where they can use their knowledge of social and cultural issues to address legal challenges and promote social justice.
Further Study and Research: For students wishing to continue their academic journey, the BA (Hons) American Studies and English program offers a solid foundation for postgraduate study. Graduates may choose to pursue master's or doctoral degrees in American Studies, English literature, history, or related fields. This opens up opportunities for careers in academia, research institutions, or policy analysis.
