Cultural Studies
As a student in cultural studies you will explore the ways in which human beings understand, organize, interpret and communicate their world. You examine and analyze philosophical, literary and artistic expressions, social structures, values, norms, belief systems and historical perspectives across time, place and cultures on issues such as ethics, gender, class and race.
Cultural studies will enhance your awareness and understanding of differences and similarities among people all over the world, including yourself. You will sharpen your skills in writing and research and critical reading and thinking, as, together with a faculty mentor, you create a program to meet your specific needs and goals.
Why choose a degree in cultural studies?
Students use the critical and analytical skills developed through work in this area of study to prepare for:
- graduate school
- law school
- the business sector
- work in government
- teaching
- journalism
- the ministry
- international human-services delivery or management
- work in museums or libraries
- work in public history.
Degrees Available
As a regionally accredited college of the State University of New York, Empire State College offers the following degrees in cultural studies:
- Associate of Arts
- Associate of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
- Combined B.A. or B.S. in Cultural Studies / M.A.T. in Adolescent Education
Taking individual courses as a nondegree student is also possible and will offer you the same range and depth of courses and rigorous standards as matriculated undergraduate students.
Popular Concentrations
- communication
- philosophy
- religious studies
- writing and literature
- women's studies
- African American studies
- American studies
- world languages and literature
- Asian, African or Caribbean area studies
- ethnicity studies
- global studies.
You can focus on a single area such as women’s studies, or create an interdisciplinary concentration that connects or combines perspectives exploring a theme or topic.