AMS 001 A/B: Introduction to American Civilization

The cornerstone of the American Studies Program provides a great way to fulfill a variety of General Education and major requirements in two semesters. AMS 001 A/B is a full-year, course taught by three members of the American Studies faculty. The course provides a comprehensive introduction to U.S. cultural, political, and social history. The course typically empahsizes literary and cultural movements like the Transcendentalists, the Harlem Renaissance and the WPA, and the American Autobiography; major social movements like the Enlightenment, Slavery Abolition, Women's Rights, and contemporary social justice movements; and major themes in social history like immigration, industrialization, and colonization.

6 Units Each

General Education Areas: C1-2, D2-3, F1-3
Entire sequence must be completed to satisfy requirement.

AMS 129: How the World Sees The United States

Comparative analysis of the cultural meaning of "America" outside the United States from the perspectives of global interdependence and transnationalism, and including both pro- and anti-American views through history. Prerequisite: Upper division standing

3 Units

AMS 159: Nature and World Cultures

The influence of industrialization and globalization on earth and the environment as seen through culture.

Prerequisite: Completion of core GE, satisfaction of Writing Skills Test and upper division standing.

3 Units

AMS 160: Contemporary Issues

Vital issues and enduring ideas in modern life (ethical, political, social, etc.) as seen in the contemporary world. Content varies each semester and with instructor.

Repeatable for credit.

3 Units

AMS 169: The American Dream

The American search for identity and meaning, the struggle for equality and success, in relation to myths, illusions and realities reflected in history, literature and the arts.

Prerequisite: Completion of core GE, satisfaction of Writing Skills Test and upper division standing.

3 Units

AMS 179: American Popular Culture

Music, sports, fashion, popular literature, television and other arts and activities that are main forms of influence, entertainment and escape. Expressions of American attitudes and ideas as important influences upon evolving culture and consciousness.

3 Units

AmS 180: Individual Studies

Supervised study of a particular aspect of American culture not covered in a regular course offering.

Prerequisite: Instructor consent.

Repeatable for credit.

Grading: C/NC

1-4 Units

AMS 190: Senior Seminar

Readings, discussions and individual research projects relating to an interdisciplinary theme selected by the instructor.

3 Units