American Studies (AMST)

Explanation of Course Descriptions, Symbols, and Terms

AMST 200 Self, Place, and Knowing: Introduction to Interdisciplinary Inquiry (Units: 3)

Prerequisite: GE Area 1A/A2* or permission of the instructor.

Introduction to Liberal Studies, American Studies, the practice of interdisciplinary inquiry, and the culmination of the first-year experience sequence. Project-based focus on different ways of understanding oneself in relationship the University, and San Francisco and the larger Bay Area. Emphasis on experiential learning through mapping (exploring, navigating, understanding, and cataloging). [CSL may be available]
(This course is offered as LS 200 and AMST 200. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

AMST 225 Values in American Life (Units: 3)

Explores the ideas, concepts, and values that have been central to how Americans understand themselves and the United States as a nation. Focuses on literature, film, music, visual culture, and popular culture in historical context. Emphasis on analytical skills, close reading practices, and critical thinking.
(This course is offered as HUM 225 and AMST 225. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

  • 3B: Humanities
  • C2: Humanities
  • Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

AMST 265 Christmas and Hanukkah in the United States (Units: 3)

Examination of the social, political, and cultural history of Christmas and Hanukkah in the United States from the colonial period to the present day. Focus on the relationship between religion, politics, commerce, and popular culture, including gender roles and the changing role of religious, ethnic, and racial minorities in U.S. public culture.
(This course is offered as JS 265, AMST 265, HIST 265, and RELS 265. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

  • U.S. History
  • 4: Social/Behavioral Sciences
  • D2: Social Sciences: US Hist.
  • Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

AMST 300GW Junior Seminar in American Studies - GWAR (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: Upper-division standing; GE Area 1A/A2; or permission of the instructor.

Examination of selected topics in U.S. culture and society through the interdisciplinary lens of American Studies. Writing-intensive seminar. (ABC/NC grading only)

Course Attributes:

  • Graduation Writing Assessment

AMST 310 The Arts and American Culture (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas 1A/A2*, 1B/A3*, 1C/A1*, and 2/B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Figures in visual, literary, and performing arts who have reflected American culture through the mastery of their arts. The relationships between arts in periods of American cultural development.
(This course is offered as HUM 485 and AMST 310. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

  • 3UD: Arts or Humanities
  • UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities
  • Am. Ethnic & Racial Minorities

AMST 410 California Culture (Units: 3)

Prerequisites: GE Areas 1A/A2*, 1B/A3*, 1C/A1*, and 2/B4* all with grades of C- or better or permission of the instructor.

Dynamics of California society, literature, and culture in recent times: world oasis, flawed paradise, lifestyle crucible, and creative milieu. The function of California in American culture and Pacific relations.
(This course is offered as HUM 450, ENG 450, and AMST 410. Students may not repeat the course under an alternate prefix.)

Course Attributes:

  • 3UD: Arts or Humanities
  • UD-C: Arts and/or Humanities