American Studies Major and Minor

American studies explores life and culture in the United States through topics such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, and ability. Take courses across multiple disciplines and build the research, writing, and critical-thinking skills you’ll need to better understand American society.

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Imagine discovering new ways to approach age-old questions, connecting diverse fields to uncover meaningful answers. You'll gain the knowledge and skills to create lasting impact, ready to drive meaningful change beyond the classroom.

What will you learn?

Begin with foundational courses before exploring special topics that interest you most. Choose from a diverse selection of courses on American culture, immigration, civil rights, sports, the environment, and even outer space. Opportunities for research, independent study, and internships will allow you to pursue your interests in greater depth.

Where will you go?

American studies majors learn to consider complex issues from multiple perspectives, engage thoughtfully, and build adaptable skills that employers value in a rapidly changing world. Our graduates pursue careers in journalism, law, education, government, business, nonprofits, and more.

Career paths	Recent employers	Graduate schools and programs
Archaeologist Historic preservation specialist Journalist Lawyer Legislative aide Marketing strategist Museum curator Nonprofit manager Policy analyst Program director Teacher	EducationSuperHighway Legal Outreach Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts Macmillan Publishing Massive Change Network National Archives PBS Spotify	Bank Street Graduate School of Education Boston University Columbia School of Social Work Kansas University University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School Vanderbilt University Wake Forest University

Mia Finnan in front of Moore Hall 1958 sign.

Discovering American Studies

Mia Finnan ’28 turned her love of film, history, and pop culture into an American studies major, finding a deeper connection to Skidmore as she learned about the College's former Moore Hall, more affectionately known as the Pink Palace.

Read Mia's story

Tammy Owens, far right, and a group of students dance in front of an academic building.

Study a cultural icon. Find your own voice.

American studies courses turn unexpected subjects into opportunities for inquiry. In Assistant Professor Tammy Owens' Becoming Beyoncé course, students explore the “politics of being seen” through one of the most influential cultural figures of our time.

Beck Krefting stands on a stage surrounded by seated audience in a gallery setting with artwork on walls.

The professor behind the punchline

American studies faculty are scholars, mentors, and creative thinkers who bring their passions into the classroom. Professor Beck Krefting studies humor, performs stand-up comedy, and helps shape an emerging field of scholarship — all while teaching students to embrace curiosity and creativity.

Turn learning into impact

At Skidmore, Lavere Foster ’11 discovered how education leads to meaningful change in society. Today, as associate director of a California nonprofit, he develops programs that support youth, families, and local communities while expanding opportunities for civic engagement and social impact.

Faculty

Award-winning. Creative. Thoughtful and supportive.

Meet your professors

Contact American Studies

Office

Tisch Learning Center
Phone: 518-580-5261

Administration

Department Chair
Gregory Pfitzer
Office: Tisch Learning Center, Room #330
518-580-5020

Academic Administrative Assistant

Susan Matrazzo
smatrazz@skidmore.edu
Office: Tisch Learning Center, Room #314
518-580-5261