American studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the historical, social, political, economic and cultural dynamics of the U.S. within a global context. This certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of the American experience, including developing solutions to historical challenges related to diversity, equity and inclusion. Your courses will cover a spectrum of topics in the realm of American studies, such as:
- Disability, gender and LGBTQIA+ issues
- Environmental humanities
- Ethnicity and culture
- Immigration
- Indigenous studies
Additionally, you’ll develop transferable skills in communication, research, applying theory to practice and working with diverse audiences. Upon graduation, you can seek roles across various industries including public policy, education and social work.
Who’s a good candidate for this certificate program?
Ideal candidates for this graduate certificate are interested in gaining a thorough understanding of America, including its social and historical impacts across the world. As an applicant, you should have a desire to broaden your understanding and knowledge of America's history through topics such as power, empires and colonialism.
Additionally, this graduate certificate in American studies complements academic and professional backgrounds in the social sciences, arts and humanities, education, and interdisciplinary studies. Whether you're adding on to your current graduate studies or completing this certificate to explore your interest in American studies, you'll gain valuable skills to support your goals.
Are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the United States and its multifaceted history? Further your knowledge with an online graduate certificate in American studies from Arizona State University. Upon completion, you’ll be equipped with the skills needed to pursue roles across a range of industries from government and public policy to human resources and education.
In your courses, you’ll build foundational knowledge of U.S. history and the dynamics of the American experience. After completing two required courses, you’ll select from electives that cover topics ranging from historical events and gender studies to pop culture and mass media.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars
- Guggenheim Fellows
- MacArthur Fellows
- Nobel laureates
As part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Social Transformation focuses on transformational knowledge across society. This includes creative research approaches to themes and questions embedded in broader historical, social and cultural contexts. We prepare our students to be informed members of the public. Our graduates are interdisciplinary, team-oriented problem-solvers who can thrive in any environment, career or pursuit.
first-generation students
Pell Grant eligible students
tenure and tenure-track faculty
of students are racially or ethnically diverse
of students are female
student-to-faculty ratio
Applicants to graduate certificate in American studies must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master's program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Letter of intent
- Written statement
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”