To integrate these diverse perspectives, students enroll in the interdisciplinary 50:050:201 Introduction to American Studies Seminar, which introduces them to the critical and theoretical paradigms of American studies and their applicability to a range of American writers and texts. This course, taken at an early point, serves as a basis for the minor. Students, with advice of program faculty, also take 12 other elective credits, which introduce them to a particular issue or set of problems in American studies. At least 3 of these credits will be in English and at least 3 credits will be in history, but no more than 6 elective credits will be in any one discipline. At least 6 elective credits will be at the 300 level or above. During the senior year, students complete Independent Study in American Studies, consisting either of a research project or an internship at a local museum, library, or historical site.
