American History, Culture & Society

Subjects: American Studies;Culture;Sociology

M.A. | Master of Arts

Course description

The master’s degree program in American History, Culture, and Society is designed for those who seek a research-focused and adaptable course of study. This program delves into advanced topics across historical, social, cultural, literary, economic, and political landscapes in the USA and Canada. It encourages students to explore and develop their own research interests. To earn the 120 credit points required, students must complete nine modules during the first three semesters. The fourth semester is reserved for writing the master’s thesis. The faculty, known for their strong research backgrounds, specialize in areas such as history, literature, media and visual culture, popular culture, gender, race and ethnicity, technology, and cultural theory. Students are urged to frame their research projects within transatlantic, transnational, or global contexts, employing comparative or interdisciplinary methods. This approach not only broadens their perspective but also enhances the depth and relevance of their research.

Application Requirements

Language Requirements

Proof of English language skills at the C1-level of the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”. Minimum score requirements for proof of the C1-level: C-Test (LMU): 70; TOEFL (internet-based): 100; TOEFL (computer-based): 250; TOEFL (paper-based): 600; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency: C; Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English: B; IELTS: 7. Degrees from programs taught in countries in which English is a native language or an official language may be accepted as sufficient proof. In this case, upload an overview of the courses taken in the program, e.g. a transcript. If your program was taught in English but obtained in a non-English speaking country, please upload a verification from the language center of your university that it meets the standards of the C1-level. Applicants who are nationals of countries in which English is a native language or an official language should upload a copy of their passport.

Qualification Requirements

The program only accepts students with a first university degree (e.g. a bachelor’s degree) earned in a program of the humanities or social sciences with a substantial share of North American topics. Students who have not finished their undergraduate studies may only be accepted on a provisional basis pending the completion of their degree.

Document Requirements

The following items must be uploaded or filled out during the application process: 1. A copy of a bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent) from a regionally accredited university or university-level institution. If the program has not yet been completed, a transcript of records from the fifth semester indicating the completion of 150 credit points must be submitted. As part of this application process, unofficial copies may be submitted. 2. A transcript of records listing all courses completed in the study program. 3. Proof of English language skills at the C1-level of the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”. Minimum score requirements for proof of the C1-level: C-Test (LMU): 70; TOEFL (internet-based): 100; TOEFL (computer-based): 250; TOEFL (paper-based): 600; Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency: C; Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English: B; IELTS: 7. Degrees from programs taught in countries in which English is a native language or an official language may be accepted as sufficient proof. In this case, upload an overview of the courses taken in the program, e.g. a transcript. If your program was taught in English but obtained in a non-English speaking country, please upload a verification from the language center of your university that it meets the standards of the C1-level. Applicants who are nationals of countries in which English is a native language or an official language should upload a copy of their passport. 4. A writing sample from the previous study program on a topic related to the USA or Canada (not more than 5 pages). 5. Research-oriented essay questions in English. Important information for international students: International students who did not receive their first degree from a German university need to apply, in a separate procedure, to the International Office at LMU. Please check the dates as well as the documents to be submitted at this web site: general admission information for international students (EU/ECR citizens or non-EU/ECR citizens) plus specific information for international students on admission to Master’s programs can be found here. International students will receive two separate replies concerning their applications, one from the International Office and the other from the master's program. The International Office issues a letter of admission (Zulassungsbescheid); the Master’s program issues a letter of acceptance. For international students, enrollment at LMU is only possible if BOTH application processes have been successful, and the student has received both the letter of admission and the letter of acceptance. Proof of German language proficiency is not required to apply to the Master's program “American History, Culture and Society”. However, a basic knowledge of German is indispensable for dealing with administrative and other matters, and an excellent knowledge is necessary for optional courses taken in subjects taught in German (see the “Program” page for more information).