American Studies and History with a Year in Industry

On this fascinating four-year BA degree program, you will have the chance to explore the culture, history and politics of the United States of America, alongside many aspects of British, European and World History.

This degree program covers the period of American history from colonization through to the recent Trump presidency as well as spanning many history topics from the Crusades through the Enlightenment to 20th Century Europe.

Tailor this varied and flexible course to suit your interests, whether in American film, music, race, gender, civil rights and political protest to international relations, political economy, and conflict and peace. It addresses some of the most pressing issues in our contemporary world, including globalization and struggles for racial justice.

The third year of this 4-year course with a Year in Industry will be spent on placement. You will have the opportunity to gain real-world industry experience and develop your employability skill set. We have a strong network of industry contacts, and you will receive dedicated support from our employability team, ranging from CV advice through to mock interviews.

Teaching on this course is informed by our world-leading research and you can attend seminars organised through our guest speaker program. Visiting American professors also offer modules as part of the degree, and with more than 150 American students studying at Swansea each year, you will have access to a ready-made network of contacts with links stretching across the USA.

You will develop a wide range of transferable skills, which are highly valued by employers, including oral, writing and presentation skills, along with expertise across research and problem-solving. Our graduates enter careers in a wide range of sectors ranging from education, heritage and museums, media and public relations, law and public services.

Study at Swansea and you’ll be based on our Singleton Campus in parkland overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsular, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Outside of your lectures, you’ll be able to join our student societies, including the History Society and American Studies Society.