Fairfield University's Master of Arts in American Studies focuses on the cultural and intellectual life of the United States, and is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and critical understanding of the American experience. As an interdisciplinary course of study, the program draws upon the expertise of full-time faculty members representing nine departments and programs: Black Studies, history, philosophy, politics, sociology, Religious Studies, Women’s Studies, and the visual and performing arts. The program consists of two core courses that provide a general introduction to American Studies, followed by eight elective courses that broaden the scope of the offerings, and an individualized graduate project developed with a faculty mentor to meet your intellectual and career goals. This built-in flexibility allows you to specialize in a particular field or pursue a broad scope of the American experience. Additionally, you’ll be able to find career inspiration in our advantageous location in the “academic corridor”—a cultural hub between New York and New Haven for libraries, museums, theaters, art galleries, and historic sites.

Fairfield's M.A. in American Studies is open to all qualified persons who wish to add an interesting dimension to their previous education. It will be of special interest to many middle school and secondary school teachers who, because of rising interest in the subject within their school systems, would like to be masters qualified in American Studies. It will also be of value to those students seeking a solid preparation before pursuing a Ph.D. in either the humanities or social sciences. Traditionally, American Studies has had great appeal for adult learners going back to school for no other reason but their eagerness to understand the times and the culture in which they live. Furthermore, international students will gain from this program a solid grounding in all aspects of the American culture. The graduate students in our program include: Professionals seeking intellectual and cultural enrichment Educators enhancing their professional development Full-time parents preparing to re-enter the marketplace Others planning to pursue further professional studies or academic degrees Learn more about how the University's Career Planning Center can support your post-graduate goals, and how Fairfield's tight-knit alumni network can build career and mentoring opportunities that last a lifetime.