Real-World Experience

We offer a wide variety of opportunities to work with professors outside the classroom, obtain real-world experience, and become a more engaged, well-rounded member of the community. These opportunities include internships, service-learning courses, and various forms of community engagement. Contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for further information. Below are a few of the ways that you can become involved with work outside of your studies at the University:

Internships

Internships give you the opportunity to contribute to the success of a business or organization while gaining hands-on experience to supplement your education. 

Community Engagement

As a student in our program, you'll have the chance to interact with the local community and see American studies in action. We actively promote engagement with communities and organizations related to our students' academic interests. Students have worked with many community-based and nonprofit organizations over the years, translating these experiences into research projects, academic credit, and valuable skills.

Undergraduate Research

Research is a central part of the American studies degree. The BA program culminates in a capstone project conducted in the proseminar. This project is typically a research paper, but can take many forms: digital media project, film, etc.

We encourage students pursuing a BA in American studies to take advantage of opportunities to conduct research, such as:

• Independent study with faculty.
• Formal research experiences like the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) and the Dean's Freshman Research & Creative Program.
• Collaborative research projects, including those which incorporate service learning, internships, or other programs.

Past undergraduate research projects have examined the Department of Homeland Security, social justice and labor organizations in the Twin Cities, and immigrant rights law, among other interesting topics.