Master in American Studies (MA)

This two-year Master's programme covers the methods, theories, and research frameworks of American Studies, with courses spanning American literature, cultural history, and society. Topics range from America's colonial past and early literary culture to contemporary themes in race, class, gender, religious, ethnic, and regional studies. Students build a common foundation through an introductory module before selecting from the broader curriculum according to their interests. The programme runs over four semesters and can begin in either the winter or summer semester; starting in winter is recommended for practical reasons. Coursework is organised around four areas: American Literature and Culture, Interdisciplinary Profile, Research, and Practice. In the core curriculum, students engage with the theoretical frameworks of American Literary and Cultural Studies. An interdisciplinary module allows students to take courses at other departments or faculties, building individual academic profiles. In their second year, students take a Special Topics module and participate in an academic colloquium where they present and discuss their thesis projects alongside faculty, visiting scholars, and fellow students. A Practice and Applications module provides opportunities for applied work, such as organising events, working as tutors, or completing internships outside academia. Graduates have gone on to work in academia, journalism, publishing, public relations, consulting, international organisations, and public administration. American Studies at the University of Tübingen is based in Tübingen, Germany.