Nottingham, University of, BA (Hons), American and English Studies

Year 1: In American studies, students are introduced to the basic themes and events of American history, and the key authors and texts of American literature; in English, students gain familiarity with the practices of working at degree level and are introduced to language and modern literature in core English modules and may be able to choose a module introducing medieval studies or drama. Year 2: In American studies, students broaden their knowledge by undertaking a survey of American thought and culture; selecting from a range of specialised modules allows students to study certain periods, events, authors or texts in more depth; in English, students reflect on, and develop, their 1st year studies by taking a core module in literary theory and further modules in English language, modern literary culture, medieval studies and/or performance analysis. Year 3: Study abroad year: the study abroad year is undertaken by those students registered for the 4-year programme; students attend a major North American university for an academic year, where students are required to take a certain proportion of their courses in American studies, but are also encouraged to take advantage of the wide range of alternative modules offered in most American and Canadian universities; students' choice of modules are supervised by staff at Nottingham; the year abroad is a unique opportunity to experience North American culture and society. Year 4: Students extend the process of specialisation and by the end of the degree are expected to show initiative in their work and have some independence of judgement; in American studies, students write a dissertation and choose from a selection of advanced level modules in North American history, literature, culture and film; in English, students choose from a range of advanced level options enabling them to specialise in key areas.