BA in American Studies (Honours) in Darlington Australia | The University of Sydney

The Bachelor of Arts honours program serves as both a bridge to postgraduate studies and the pinnacle of undergraduate achievement. This final year can represent the conclusion of your academic journey, offering an opportunity to broaden your intellectual horizons, refine your research skills, and enhance your analytical and communication capabilities while developing the personal and professional competencies required to successfully complete a research project. Ideal for undergraduates with a single major, the honours year also serves as a foundation for those considering careers in academia or professional research. The program combines seminar participation with an independent research project, guided by a faculty expert in your chosen field.

The honours curriculum includes an American Studies seminar, an additional seminar selected from fourth-year American-focused units in disciplines like English, Film Studies, Government and International Relations, or History, plus an 18,000-20,000 word thesis. Pursuing honours in American Studies provides a competitive advantage by allowing specialization in a particular area of interest. Your thesis serves as an independent endeavor that equips you for professional life, as self-directed research and goal-setting facilitate the transition to project-oriented work environments. Achieving first or second-class honours also creates excellent opportunities for PhD studies. Past students have explored varied topics including the WNBA, political internet culture, male friendships in Hollywood, racial influences on fashion, the intersection of religion and US foreign policy, and concepts of American exceptionalism.