American Studies and Film Studies (with a study abroad year)

3rd in the UK for American Studies (Complete University Guide 2025)

About the course

By combining American Studies and Film Studies, you’ll explore a wide range of interesting topics – from the birth of celebrity culture to contemporary Hollywood blockbusters.

Studying the nation that has played a pivotal role in shaping the 20th and 21st centuries, you’ll understand the world we live in today. Watching a wide range of films, you’ll find out how cinema entertains, informs and influences its audiences. You’ll investigate global film cultures; question cinematic representations of gender, race and sexuality; and analyse popular genres.

Our engaged and passionate tutors will guide you through each year of your degree. Specialist options allow you to tailor your degree to what inspires you most. Plus, by spending a year abroad, you’ll not only study America, but you’ll experience it too. We’re proud to have prestigious American partner institutions, including UC Berkeley and Georgetown.

About Sussex

Our courses, research, culture and campus aim to stimulate, excite and challenge. From scientific discovery to global policy, from student welfare to career development, Sussex innovates and takes a lead. And today, in every part of society and across the world, you'll find someone from Sussex making an original and valuable contribution.

Location

Study on our beautiful, green campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park and just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton & Hove. We’re near to Gatwick airport and just over an hour from London.