United States Studies | Career Centre

From the Mayflower to the Federalist Papers and American Exceptionalism, from Hollywood and American literature to the Cold War and contemporary politics - our neighbour is steeped in a rich history, unique culture, art and a specific politic system. It is a fascinating country whose people and actions have shaped realities around the world for centuries and continue to do so. If you have always been fascinated by all things American, majoring in United States Studies, a new offering by the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, can be a right fit and will give you a deep understanding of the influence and the place of the United States throughout history and today. The degree will further give you an understanding of what it means to be Canadian in the scope of sharing North America.

Career Options in United States Studies

Below is a sample list of some future choices to explore following studies in United States Studies. This list is not exhaustive but it provides a solid idea of potential careers a United States Studies degree can offer. Some options are more directly associated with specific areas of United States Studies than others.

Author
Archivist
Art Dealer
Blogger
Business Attaché
Consultant
Cultural Consultant
Critic
Diplomat
Editor
Entrepreneur
Event Planner
Foreign Business Consultant
Fundraising Coordinator
Historian
Historical Site Coordinator
Human Resources Specialist
International Aid Director
International Brand Strategist
Journalist
Lawyer

Legal Aid
Librarian
Linguist
Literary Editor
Lobbyist
Magazine Contributor
Media Correspondent
Non-Profit Organization Director
Politician
Publisher
Professor
Project Manager
Public Policy Analyst
Public Relations Representative
Social Program Director
Speech Writer
Travel Magazine Editor
Teacher
UN Representative
US Business Strategist
Writer

Skills Developed through a United States Studies Degree

A background in United States Studies ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges. Here are just a few of the skills a United States Studies degree can help you develop:

Core United States Studies Skills

Familiarity with American history and key political developments since the nation’s inception through to contemporary issues as the war on terrorism, economic crises, human rights and aid.
Exposure to different aspects of what the United States stands for and how this identity is represented, portrayed and molded in literature, media and the arts.

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork Skills

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field. The following is a selection of organizations related to the field of United States Studies that you may want to visit as you research career options for United States Studies graduates.

Canadian Association for American Studies
American Studies Association
International American Studies Association
United States Institute of Peace
York University United States Studies