The program for the Master of Arts (M.A.) in American Studies at Washington State University is designed to provide a broad background in American Culture Studies. In consultation with their advisor, candidates are expected to assemble a range of courses and independent study in American ethnic studies, literature, history, women's studies, and related fields that will provide them with a broad knowledge of US culture and of current approaches to cultural interpretation. TRADITIONAL THESIS: Students taking the thesis option write a thesis (typically 75-125 pages) synthesizing material on an American Studies topic they choose in consultation with their degree committee. (Examples of previous theses are available in the Coordinator's office.) Approval of the thesis occurs after a final oral exam conducted by the student's degree committee, and constitutes completion of the degree, presuming all course, exam and language requirements have been met. The M.A. program of study, to be filed with the graduate school, must include a minimum of thirty (30) post-BA credit hours, at least thirty (30) of which must be in graded courses.

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