Welcome to the Graduate Student Handbook that introduces you to the Department of American Studies.  We have learned that this Handbook is useful to students in different ways over the years that you pursue your Ph.D.  We have tried to order the sections so that what may be interesting to a first year student will begin the Handbook.  The table of contents allows you to locate many of the key decisions and requirements of your graduate education. You will find copies of all relevant forms that are needed to take these steps in the handbook in its appendices as well. We hope that you will consistently consult the Handbook at all of those important transition points in your graduate sojourn.

• In Section One we begin with what may be the first question on entering that students ask: who serves as my adviser and what is a temporary adviser?

• In Section Two you will learn about how students maintain good standing in the department, which is required not only to progress but for holding most fellowships and TAships.

• In Section Three you will learn about all degree requirements and the steps that you take to proceed through each phase of graduate education.

• In Section Four we provide an overview of the structure of American Studies. In this section you will learn about who serves as a faculty member of the department, and how they function in relationship to graduate student advising and committee membership. You will also learn about how the department is governed, the roles students play in that governance, and your rights and responsibilities as a graduate student.

• In Section Five we list an overview of financial aid and intellectual resources.

This Handbook should be supplemented with the most current policies, information, and additional resources from Graduate School Student Services.  The Graduate Student Services Office is located at 316 Johnston Hall, 625-3490.  The American Studies Department Policies (Appendix G) located at the back of this binder should also be consulted. The faculty and staff of American Studies wish all of our students a productive, satisfying, and successful year.

Please keep in mind these important web addresses:
• GRADUATE SCHOOL

• AMERICAN STUDIES ASSOCIATION

• U of M AMERICAN STUDIES