Ave Maria University
The American Studies program at AMU is an interdisciplinary major that focuses on the foundational principles that gave birth to the American republic. By studying a myriad of primary sources from the time of the Founding Fathers to contemporary history and literature, you’ll uncover what motivates American culture, politics and society.
Careers: History Teacher, Social Studies Teacher, Political Philosophy, Public Office
In our American Studies course, you’ll draw from the disciplines of politics, history and literature to discover the extent, aim, end and structure of America’s constitutional republic. From primary documents, constitutional law and political philosophy, you’ll also dive into America’s political principles and the extra-political, cultural institutions that are part of its founding.
Fast Fact: With a firm grasp of our founding principles, students confront relevant issues like the role of religion in government.
Education: B.A., History, York University; M.A., History, University of Toronto; Ph.D., History, University of Toronto Office: Henkels 2019 Email: paul.baxa@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-1661
Education: B.A., Political Science, Carleton University; M.A., Political Science, Carleton University; Ph.D., Political Science, Boston College Office: Thomas Student Union 2007B Email: john.colman@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-1609
Education: B.A., English, Hillsdale College; M.A., English, University of Texas at Austin; Ph.D., English, University of Texas at Austin Office: Henkels 2047 Email: kirsten.hall@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7959
Education: B.A., Political Science, University of Houston; M.A., Politics, University of Virginia; Ph.D., Politics, University of Virginia Office: Henkels 2055 Email: james.patterson@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 304-7365
Education: B.B.A., Business Administration, Bishop’s University; LL.B., Law, University of Ottawa; LL.M., Law, McGill University; D.C.L., Civil Law, McGill University Office: Henkels 3054 Email: seana.sugrue@avemaria.edu Phone: (239) 280-1625
*With program director’s approval, elective courses can be taken in any department where those courses have substantial context related to American Studies.
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The spiritual life on campus is the beating heart of Ave. Whether it’s attending Mass, receiving the sacraments, participating in retreats or getting spiritual direction, you’ll find the spiritual support you need from the priests and staff of Campus Ministry.
With AMU’s core curriculum, you’ll not only achieve breadth of knowledge, but also depth of knowledge. You’ll encounter the truth about God and His creation more completely through the dynamic interplay of all of the liberal arts, including theology and natural science.
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