A.A. Degree: Liberal Arts American Studies Emphasis

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Associate's Degree in two years. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). The plan includes four semesters, each with an average course load of 15 units, and follows the Plan 1 General Education pattern. You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

This is a diversified degree designed for students desiring a broad knowledge of liberal arts and sciences plus additional coursework in an “Area of Emphasis”. The degree allows students to develop an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and values that have shaped and enriched our culture. The program of study also enables students to develop intellectual maturity, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the American heritage.

This program provides excellent preparation for a variety of personal and professional goals. Please consult a counselor for educational planning and information regarding specific goals.

I. Requirements:

  1. Complete general education Plan 1 (associate degree AA/AS only, nontransfer) or Plan 2 (Cal-GETC, CSU or UC transfer) as related to your educational goal. The CSU GE or IGETC pattern may be used in some cases; please see a counselor for details.
  2. Complete a minimum of 18 units from a single Area of Emphasis listed below. For depth of study, students are strongly encouraged to complete two or more courses in a single discipline as part of their 18 units. (Note: Courses in the chosen "Area of Emphasis" may also be applied toward general education areas on Plans 1 and 2.) Note: Although a course may be listed in more than one area of emphasis of the Liberal Arts degree, it may only be used to meet a requirement for a single emphasis.
  3. Complete all other associate degree requirements for Santa Ana College.

II. Areas of Emphasis:
1. American Studies Emphasis
2. Arts, Humanities and Communications Emphasis
3. Business and Technology Emphasis
4. Kinesiology and Wellness Emphasis
5. Mathematics and Science Emphasis
6. Social And Behavioral Sciences Emphasis

1 . American Studies (sac.laas.aa)

These courses emphasize the peoples, cultures, institutions, and cultural trends of the United States. Students will examine American culture as a whole from various perspectives. Students will also learn how this country has been shaped by a variety of disciplines while recognizing the diversity of our culture. This emphasis may be of interest to those planning to pursue careers in business, communications, government service, law, social services, and teaching.

NOTE: Although a course may be listed in more than one area of emphasis of the Liberal Arts degree, it may only be used to meet a requirement for a single emphasis.

Students will study American culture as a whole from various perspectives.

Students will examine the formation of our country while recognizing the diversity of our culture.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

First Semester

14 units

Second Semester

16 units

Third Semester

15 units

Fourth Semester

16 units