Do you know America as well as you think you do? Temple University’s undergraduate American Studies degree will help you dispel national myths and find the truth from the first inklings of revolution to the cultural, societal, political and artistic issues of today. Looking to study America without majoring in it? You can also get an American Studies minor by taking just six courses from the program. Either way, you’ll learn about our great nation just minutes from where it all began at Independence Hall right here in Philadelphia.
American Studies is a broad-based interdisciplinary program that explores the rich complexity of American culture and American lives. Instead of treating topics as discrete categories, the program explores their relationships to each other. For instance, we look at ideas about race and class embedded in national symbols and ideas. Through a variety of courses and in a mix of different categories, American studies provides students with a deep understanding of the many forces and ideas that shape America.
Bachelor of Arts and Minor in American Studies
The program offers student internship opportunities and other hands-on kinds of learning at a variety of cultural institutions in Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley. American studies bachelor of arts courses are challenging and thought-provoking, and many of them are cross-listed with the Temple University Honors Program. The American studies major program stresses development of reading, writing and analytical skills that are necessary for successful careers in a range of professional fields.
Minors take six courses in American studies, at least three of which must be from three different American studies core areas. Most students find a minor can be accommodated within their regular program. American studies minors are particularly useful in journalism, business, education and those fields that are served by creative thinking that draw inspiration from more than one area.
Academic Advising and Professional Development
Take full advantage of the College of Liberal Arts’ flexible curriculum with the help of our award-winning advisors. We’ll help you select a major or minor and graduate on time. Beyond academics, our advisors ensure that you have a rich experience at Temple by complementing your academic work with study abroad programs, internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
At Temple, we believe that students from all walks of life should have access to an outstanding college education. If you need help paying for your education, you aren’t alone. Most students receive some form of financial aid to fund their education. About 60% of first-year Temple students receive need-based financial aid, and the average first-year financial aid package is about $15,000. Eligible students receive financial assistance from federal, state, private and university sources. Explore all available funding and apply early to make your college education an affordable experience.
Fly in 4
Take charge of your future and limit your debt. The Fly in 4 partnership allows you to complete your degree on time—or Temple will pay for your remaining coursework. Graduating on time means your path to success starts sooner. We provide you with the resources you need to graduate in four years, like academic advising and classes offered when you need them. You commit to doing what it takes to blaze your career path in four years.
Undergraduate Tuition
No Added Tuition Costs. That’s the promise the College of Liberal Arts makes (and keeps) to all of our incoming students. We know deciding to attend college is a big one, both in life and financially, so we're committed to keeping costs down. We're one of only three schools/colleges at Temple University that do not charge a tuition differential, so what you see is what you pay. Our priority is helping you graduate with less student debt.
We understand that, at this phase, you are weighing all your options, and you should be! It's crucial to find the right fit for YOU and YOUR PASSIONS.
For more information, visit Temple's costs, aid and scholarships page and Temple’s tuition calculator. To see tuition rates for all Temple schools and colleges, visit Temple’s 2024–2025 tuition rates page.