American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad)

American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad)

Overview

The programme American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad) BA (Hons) is a unique opportunity to study diverse culture, polities, history, and literature while gaining international experience through a year abroad. Mainly, it's a comprehensive programme that provides a deep understanding of North American societies.

The programme culminates in a transformative year of study at a partner university in North America, allowing students to immerse themselves in the culture and academic environment of the region.

Students will explore key historical events, political systems, social movements, and cultural expressions of both countries. The extensive curriculum and international experience offered by this programme will cultivate a robust skill set, enhancing their career prospects and personal growth.

This course will elevate their degree with a transformative year of study at a top US or Canadian university.

Objectives

  1. Enhance critical thinking, research, and analytical skills.
  2. Develop academic writing and oral communication proficiency.
  3. Develop intercultural competence and global citizenship.
  4. Prepare for international relations, diplomacy, education, business, and government careers.

Prerequisites

  1. Preference two A-levels or equivalent.
  2. English language proficiency for international students.
  3. Solid interest in the history and international relations sector.
  4. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  5. Desire for positive impact.

Curriculum Outline

  1. American Freedom? Empire, Rights, and Capitalism in Modern US HIstory, 1900-Present
  2. American Literature and Culture 01: 1830-1940
  3. American Literature and Culture 02: Since 1940
  4. Approaches to American Culture 01: An Introduction
  5. Approaches to American Culture 02: Developing Themes and Perspective
  6. From Landscapes to Mixtapes: Canadian literature, Film, and CultureRich,
  7. Race, Power, Money and the making of North America, 1607 - 1900
  8. Key Texts in American Social and Political Thought
  9. North American Regions
  10. Study Abroad
  11. Dissertation in American and Canadian Studies

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures
  2. Group lectures
  3. Guest lectures
  4. Interactive seminars
  5. 1-2-1 meetings or discussions
  6. Personal tutors
  7. Peer mentor
  8. Tutorials

Modules

  1. Prosperity
  2. Depression
  3. War
  4. Liberal reform
  5. Political conservatism
  6. Minority protests
  7. Multicultural awareness
  8. International power
  9. Address questions about the nature of the American ‘canon’, raised by critics
  10. Explore related developments in visual culture and music
  11. The Business of College sports
  12. Controversies connected with the confederate flag and civil war statues
  13. Digital America and the power of ‘Big Tech’
  14. Policing Contemporary America
  15. Django Unchained: 21st Century US Cinema and historical representation
  16. Music
  17. Painting
  18. Cinema
  19. Television
  20. Various genres of writing
  21. Depicting 9/11 in film and photography
  22. Representing the past in public art forms, such as murals and monuments
  23. Re-staging the American Revolution in the Broadway musical Hamilton
  24. Re-imagining race, gender and sexuality in TV comedy-dramas like Orange Is the New Black
  25. Transforming political activism through social media in campaigns
  26. The wilderness
  27. Migration and multiculturalism
  28. Indigenous cultures
  29. Canadian and Québécois nationalisms
  30. Popular culture
  31. Canada’s relationship to the US
  32. Distinctive African-American cultures
  33. Broad chronological period
  34. Religion
  35. Race
  36. Class
  37. Capitalism
  38. Gender
  39. Sexuality

Assessment Methods

  1. Commentary
  2. Dissertation
  3. Essay
  4. Presentation
  5. Reflective review
  6. Written exam

Course Duration

This programme may vary depending on the institutions and countries, but the general standard options in the UK are:

  1. 04 years (full-time).

Facilities

  1. Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources
  2. Specialized research facilities, including databases and archives
  3. Quiet study spaces and group study rooms
  4. Experienced faculty members
  5. Regular seminars, workshops, and guest lectures
  6. Opportunities for research projects and internships
  7. Language courses in English, French, and other relevant languages
  8. Language labs for practicing pronunciation and listening skills
  9. Computer labs with access to specialized software and online resources
  10. High-speed internet access for research and communication
  11. IT support services to assist with technical issues
  12. Academic advising and tutoring
  13. Career counseling and job placement services
  14. Counseling and mental health support
  15. Opportunities to join clubs and societies
  16. Social events, cultural activities, and volunteer opportunities
  17. Disability support services

Career Pathways

  1. Journalist
  2. Editor
  3. Broadcaster
  4. Content Creator
  5. Teacher
  6. Lecturer
  7. Educational Consultant
  8. Diplomat
  9. Civil Servant
  10. Policy Analyst
  11. Business Analyst
  12. Marketing Consultant
  13. Financial Analyst
  14. Programme Officer
  15. Fundraiser
  16. Advocacy Officer
  17. Translator or Interpreter
  18. Librarian
  19. Tour Guide

Fees and Fundings

  1. Tuition fees are £23,000 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
  2. Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
  3. Government loan aid is available.

Entry Requirements

  1. A level: ABB
  2. A high school diploma or equivalent
  3. Satisfactory scores on standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT, IELTS)
  4. English Language and Mathematics GCSE at grade C/grade 4 or above
  5. A passion for history and International relations
  6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  7. A strong academic record

Field Work and Internships

  1. Participate in cultural exchange programmes or volunteer work to experience firsthand.
  2. Opportunities for valuable experience through internships, placements, and work facilities.

Certifications

  1. International relations
  2. Diplomacy
  3. Education
  4. Business
  5. Government
  6. Journalism
  7. Non-profit organizations

Intakes

Typically, it takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:

  1. Fall (September/October)
  2. Spring (January/February)
  3. Summer (May/June)

Student Testimony

"I can't tell you how different I am compared to when I started. It's been a real journey, and it's so nice to look back and see how far I've come." Says - "Liberty Jones, American and Canadian Studies (Study Abroad) BA (Hons)."

Frequently asked questions

Students can develop a range of skills, including critical thinking, research, analysis, problem-solving, communication, and intercultural competence.

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