American Studies
American Studies Program, Centre for the Study of the United States, Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy
Pearson Croney-Clark is not only a government relations and public affairs specialist, she’s also an American Studies grad.
Pearson Croney-Clark (Hon. B.A., 2015) developed her excellence in writing and research by actively engaging in U of T's student journals and serving as a Research Assistant for the Director of CSUS. Following her Master's studies in France, she built her career working as Press and Public Diplomacy Trainee at the Delegation of the European Union to the US, in Government Affairs with the American Chamber of Commerce in France, and then as a policy advisor to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. She applies her wealth of knowledge and experience today as a Public Affairs Manager at Oatly, where she is working to advance sustainable food systems. Learn more about Pearson on LinkedIn.
What skills can American Studies graduates use in their careers?
Within two years of entering the labour market, 84% with undergraduate degrees in this area of study are employed with a median salary of $52,800/year.
69% of those graduates go on to pursue further education. (Sources: Statistics Canada Employment Income and Further Education Data from Class of 2020.)
Industry Pathways
Alumni with a degree in American Studies have often pursued these industries:
- Journalism & Broadcasting
- Public Relations & Corporate Communications
- Postsecondary Education (Colleges & Universities)
- Nonprofit & Advocacy Organizations
- Policy Analysis & Research
- Publishing & Editing
- Museums & Heritage Institutions
- International Relations & Diplomacy
Further Education Pathways
Alumni with a degree in American Studies have often pursued these further education options:
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Master of Communication / Media Studies
- Master of Education (MEd)
- Law School (JD or LLB)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master of Global Affairs / International Relations
- Graduate Diploma
Exploring connections between your degree and career
Learn about yourself
Register for Job Shadowing to connect with professionals in your field of interest through a half- or full-day placement that helps clarify your goals and explore career paths.
Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in various roles within one organization.
Find a Work Study Position to apply your academic skills in paid, on-campus roles that offer hands-on experience and insight into career possibilities.
Join a career workshop or small group conversation to explore options, understand your strengths, and plan for your future. Visit the Career and Co-Curricular Learning Network (CLNx) for more information.
Build Your Network
Find the University of Toronto on LinkedIn and connect with peers, professionals, and alumni who can support your career journey.
Access U of T's Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees —an online networking platform with over 12,000 students and alumni—to exchange career advice, attend webinars, and explore career paths through one-on-one conversations.
Join networking events, panels, and career fairs through CLNx to connect with employers and alumni for career advice, informational interviews, and referrals.
Volunteer opportunities are a great ways to expand your connections and gain industry insight.
Explore identity-focused mentorship opportunities—such as the Black Alumni Mentorship Program—to connect with mentors who share your lived experiences and can support your personal, academic, and professional growth. If you have questions about the program, connect with Modele Kuforiji at mod.kuforiji@utoronto.ca.
Student Life’s Mentorship & Peer Programs also provide engagement opportunities for African Black Caribbean, Latin American, Southeast Asian, and First-Generation students, helping to promote academic and career wellness while fostering belonging and community. If you have questions about this programming, contact Adonica Huggins at adonica.huggins@utoronto.ca.
Explore Your Program
Explore your area of study by connecting with faculty and peers and finding opportunities that enrich your academic and professional journey.
Talk to professors to better understand your discipline and identify meaningful learning experiences.
Get involved in student groups and leadership roles to spark new ideas, expand your perspective, and open unexpected opportunities.
Take advantage of faculty advising and support services, and explore internships through professional associations to gain hands-on experience in your field.
Learn about Internship and Award opportunities on the Centre for the Study of the United States website.
Attend social and academic events organized by the Undergraduate Society of American Studies.
Submit your work for publication in the Undergraduate Journal of American Studies.
