History and American Studies

History and American studies is a combination that places the development of the United States in a broad historical and cultural context, examining how America came to be the most powerful and globally influential nation of the twentieth century and how its history connects to wider patterns of political change, social struggle, and cultural development. American history is a subject of genuine intellectual richness: the story of the United States since the Declaration of Independence in 1776 encompasses revolution, slavery and its abolition, civil war, industrialisation, immigration and the construction of national identity, the emergence of a global superpower, and the social movements that have challenged and transformed American society throughout its history.

At the University of Leicester, this three-year full-time programme combines the analytical methods and broad chronological scope of history with the interdisciplinary approach of American studies, which draws on history, literature, politics, cultural analysis, and media studies to understand the USA as a whole. You will study the ideas, people, and events that shaped the nation, examining political history alongside cultural and social history and developing the ability to read American society through its cultural productions as well as its political institutions. Leicester has strengths in both history and American studies, and the combination gives you conceptual tools that illuminate each discipline through the other.

The programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement, giving you substantial professional and international experience. A year in the United States, if available through the year abroad option, provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience American society directly and to deepen your understanding of the culture you are studying.

Graduates from history and American studies programmes pursue careers in journalism, media, education, the civil service, international organisations, research, publishing, cultural organisations, and a broad range of professional roles where analytical and communication skills are valued. Postgraduate study in history, American studies, or related fields is a natural progression.