The minor includes 15 EC of theory courses. In the two modules of “Theories of Culture I,” you learn how the media has shaped the social realities of race, class and gender in contemporary America. “Theories of Culture II: Media Theory” will introduce you to different definitions of media, discuss the works of key media theorists, and assess the impact of a set of media objects (among them telegraph, phonograph, television, smartphone) on American life. These theory courses are complemented by a broad, interdisciplinary survey of recent U.S. history and culture, from the Civil Rights Movement to the War on Terror (Americas Ia). The final 10 EC are devoted to honing your skills in research, writing, and argumentation in hands-on seminars where you write about a topic of your choice (Rhetoric & Composition II).

The Critical Theory Minor consists of 20 EC of theory courses and 10 EC of courses in
writing and research. The two modules of “Theories of Culture I” unpack identity in the
contemporary U.S., with readings from key figures like Judith Butler, Frantz Fanon, and
David Harvey, and applications to real-life debates. “Theories of Culture II” takes a deep dive
into two important traditions of social criticism: Media Theory and Political Theory.
“Rhetoric and Composition II” complements these courses with hands-on practice in
research and writing: in these seminars, you’ll hone your own scholarly arguments on topics
of your choice.

Students who complete this minor will be eligible to enroll in the MA in American Studies.

Note: Students following this minor who do not wish to take "Rhetoric and Composition IIa & IIb" may substitute those modules with any Fall courses from the "Americas" series.

The minor consists of 20 EC of courses on U.S. history in a global context. One set covers the
colonial period up to the American Revolution (Americas III), while the other begins in the
late-nineteenth century and traces the rise of U.S. geopolitical power up to the Trump
administration (Americas I). The remaining 10 EC are cultural theory courses designed to
enhance your understanding of the past and present. You’ll learn new conceptual tools for
understanding debates around identity in the United States today (Theories of Culture I):
Race, Class, and Gender in Contemporary America). And you’ll read foundational texts of
democracy and liberalism alongside writings by socialists and anarchists who challenged the
dominant ideologies of American life (Theories of Culture II: Political Theory).

Students who complete this minor will be eligible to enroll in the MA in American Studies.