Overview The MA in American Studies is an English-language, interdisciplinary graduate programme that develops advanced knowledge of the United States across culture, literature, history, society, and politics. It combines close disciplinary study with broader theoretical and comparative perspectives, while training students in advanced academic methods and independent research.
Structure and focus Students deepen their understanding of the complexities of the U.S. through taught modules and supervised research projects. The curriculum is flexible enough to let you concentrate on a particular discipline or thematic field within American Studies, so you can tailor your course choices and thesis to fit academic or professional goals.
Career relevance for international students The degree prepares graduates for further academic work (including doctoral studies) and for a wide range of international careers. Typical sectors include cultural affairs, media and communication, publishing, political and international organisations, research and science management, and adult education. The programme also develops transferable skills—critical analysis, research design, academic writing, and cross-cultural competence—that are valued across the global job market.
Admission-related points (consult the university for details)
For precise entry criteria, application deadlines and required documents, please refer to the university’s official admissions pages.
The program includes optional modules taught by visiting professors from the United States under the American Studies Picador Professorship for Literature. These guest-led courses are integrated into the MA curriculum to bring external, US-based perspectives directly into classroom teaching.
By working with visiting scholars, students gain exposure to contemporary approaches in American literary studies and related interdisciplinary debates. These sessions typically supplement core seminars and can offer intensive workshops, specialized topics, or guest lectures that diversify the program’s academic input and scholarly networks.
Practical course descriptions and materials are provided for students (see the programme’s PDF download for details). International students should view these options as opportunities to engage with different scholarly traditions and to broaden their research and analytical skills in American Studies.
Requirements (as stated)
This master’s program requires both a subject-related undergraduate qualification and successful completion of the program’s entrance examination. These two elements form the basis for admission decisions and ensure applicants have the academic foundation and readiness for graduate-level work in American Studies.
For international applicants, “equivalent” typically means a recognised bachelor’s degree from a higher-education institution abroad that is comparable in scope and level to a German BA. “Fields overlapping with American Studies” covers disciplines with substantial relevance to the study of the United States and its cultures, politics, history, or literatures. The admissions office will confirm whether your prior degree and coursework meet the programme’s expectations; you should be prepared to submit transcripts, diploma supplements, or credential evaluations if requested.
The entrance exam is a mandatory step in the selection process. Specific information about exam format, dates, and registration will be provided by the programme’s admissions unit—check their official guidance for details and deadlines.
Admission requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for both academic progression (e.g., doctoral programmes) and a wide range of international professional roles. Typical sectors include cultural affairs, media and communication, publishing, political and international organisations, science and research management, and adult education.
The programme’s English‑medium instruction, guest lecturers from the United States, and options for internships or study abroad equip students with the research, communication and intercultural skills valued by employers in international organisations, NGOs, cultural institutions and the education sector.
Trier University of Applied Sciences — Birkenfeld
Technische Universität Braunschweig — Braunschweig
Furtwangen University — Villingen-Schwenningen
University of Siegen — Siegen