American Studies at the University of Amsterdam is an interdisciplinary, English-language one-year Master’s program. The program attracts students from many academic backgrounds: history, cultural studies, literary criticism, media studies, and the social sciences. The lecturers are not only specialised in the field of American studies, but also come from an extremely broad range of academic backgrounds, thereby ensuring that the courses are highly interdisciplinary. Guided directly by the academic staff, students will write an original thesis, drawing on their own interests and expertise.

Studying American Studies at the University of Amsterdam

American Studies at the University of Amsterdam has a rich history. It has always been interdisciplinary, and it has always encouraged a view of the United States from transnational and comparative perspectives. This has expanded in recent years to a global perspective. Our courses explore the political, cultural, economic and military presence of the United States abroad—both historically and with an eye toward America in the world today. Our field of inquiry spans high culture and mass culture, from intellectual history to the presence of America in popular media.
For these reasons, doing American Studies in Europe is an asset and not a drawback. European views of the United States have long been central to American Studies as a field, and the often contrapuntal relationship of Europe and America is a central theme of Atlantic history. Amsterdam—where one encounters American-style modernity in a major European cultural center—is an ideal vantage point.

Degree certificate

American Studies is an accredited degree programme of History. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in History and the title Master of Arts (MA).