CERT
Certificate

American Studies

Deepen your understanding of American history and culture with SUNY Empire’s online Graduate Certificate in American Studies.

This flexible, interdisciplinary program explores literature, politics, art, religion, race, gender, and identity in the United States (from its founding to today). You’ll study topics through multimedia sources, from archival materials to modern film and performance art, while building advanced skills in analysis, research, and writing. 

Our team can help you prepare for the next step in your career.

Graduate Certificate in American Studies

CERT

Earn your Graduate Certificate in American Studies online and explore the ideas, identities, and experiences that have shaped the United States. This flexible program allows you to focus on topics that interest you, such as history, culture, politics, or media, while building skills in research, critical thinking, and analysis to support your work in education, public service, or the arts. 

Format

100% Online

How it Works

Tuition

$471 / credit

Tuition & Fees

Credits

12

Course Catalog

Next term starts

Fall 2025

  • Course List: 

     

    • LACS 6050 

      Seminar in American Studies  

       
    • LACS 6055 

      American Studies: Theories & Methods  

       
    • One elective in American culture, arts and history such as:  

       

       
    • LACS 6180 

      American History Culture & the Arts  

       
    • LACS 6190

      American Modernism  

       
    • LACS 6090 

      Culture of the Jazz Age

       
    • Plus one elective in American racial and ethnic diversity or American gender and sexuality such as:  

    • LACS 6270 

      Race and Gender in US History since the Civil War  

       
    • LACS 6100 

      Diagnosing Desire: Gender & Medicine in US History  

       
    • LACS 6330 

      Women & Humor  

       
    • LACS 6195 

      American Women Writers 

       

Ready to Apply?

The deadline for the Fall 2025 term is August 1. How to Apply

Sharpen Your Lens on American Society

What you'll learn

  • Analyze U.S. history and culture
  • Interpret diverse cultural texts and media
  • Explore race, gender, and identity
  • Strengthen research and writing skills

Advance Your Career with a Graduate Certificate in American Studies 

This online graduate certificate program enhances your knowledge and credentials for careers in education, public service, and the arts. Possible paths include: 

  • Educator or Curriculum Developer 
  • Museum or Cultural Program Coordinator 
  • Writer or Editor in Media or Publishing 
  • Community Engagement or Advocacy Leader 
  • Public Historian or Policy Researcher 
Career Services
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I chose SUNY Empire because a coworker recommended the university, plus the ease of registration as a veteran.

Interested? Start Here

1

Explore American Culture with Purpose 

We're here to support you every step of the way, making your journey to a Graduate Certificate in American Studies flexible, engaging, and rewarding. Our dedicated advisors will help you stay on track, deepen your understanding of American history and culture, and build the analytical skills to apply your learning in education, public service, or cultural work. 

 

Request Info
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2

Check for Prior Learning Credits

Put your past experience toward your degree. Use transfer credits, work experience, or life skills to get a head start, save money, and earn your degree faster.

How To Get Credits

Normal Program Length
Your Prior Learning
Your Prior Learning
3

Apply for the Graduate Certificate Program in American Studies 

Make sure you have all the admissions requirements and complete your application to be ready for our next term! 

How To Apply

Next start term

Fall 2025

Deadline to apply

August 1

Start

as soon as September 2, 2025.

Interested in the Graduate Certificate in American Studies?

Learn more and get started.

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