American Studies

Related master’s programmes

The Leiden programme offers a diverse and international learning environment. While the programme focuses on the U.S., you will also explore the role the U.S. plays in the region and in the world, as well as the impact of the region and the world on developments in the U.S. Some of the key areas and major issues in the history, politics,  literature and culture of the U.S. that the programme explores in depth and from a multidisciplinary and historical perspective include:

• Slavery, migration, and emancipation movements;
• The history and politics of international relations and human rights;
• Immigration and ethnicity;
• Identity constructions and memory politics;
• Environmental justice.

An important aspect of the programme is learning how to conduct independent multidisciplinary research, comprehend and apply theoretical insights, learn about and engage with scholarly debates, and take a critical approach to all materials. Critical reflection on U.S. exceptionalism is a recurrent topic throughout the programme.

If you succesfully complete the minor American Studies, you have an excellent chance to be admitted to the master’s programme North American Studies. Admission is dependent on your motivation and competences.