MA in American Studies in Boston United States | University of Massachusetts Boston

The American Studies MA program at UMass Boston has gained national recognition as a premier graduate program in its discipline. Drawing methodologies from cultural history, social analysis, film and music studies, critical race theory, and queer studies, this intensive program combines foundational coursework with personalized research opportunities. The university's enduring focus on examining power structures within American culture has been revitalized through contemporary approaches including transnational perspectives, postcolonial frameworks, and emerging fields like sound studies and critical tourism analysis.

Through this program, you will:

Acquire an interdisciplinary understanding of America's historical development, artistic expressions, and cultural evolution, exploring how these elements interact to define the national identity
Master sophisticated research techniques and analytical approaches to evaluate primary documents, interpret cultural artifacts, and contribute to academic conversations in American studies
Refine your critical thinking, communication skills, and presentation abilities to excel in academic environments or professional roles across education, research, public administration, or cultural preservation

Professional Pathways
Pursue scholarly investigations of American history and culture for universities, research centers, museums, or government entities. Design educational initiatives and learning materials centered on American studies for academic institutions or community organizations. Alternatively, leverage your expertise in American society to influence and shape public policy. These represent just a sample of potential career directions.

Potential career outcomes include:

Academic Researcher
Museum Collections Specialist
Educational Program Developer
Cultural Affairs Director
Public Policy Consultant
Media Strategist