American Studies Program
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 Program 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
University of Toronto American Studies Alumni most frequently apply their research skills and global perspective in 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
An American Studies degree equips students with the critical thinking and analysis skills for a variety of academic next steps, including graduate programs in:
- 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 the Job Shadowing Program to connect with professionals in your career area of interest. During a half or full day job shadowing placement, you’ll begin to clarify your goals and better understand your career options.
Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in a variety of occupations within one organization.
Find a Work-Study Position and gain paid, on-campus positions that provide you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge, strengthen your skills and explore how your academic studies translate to career possibilities.
Attend a career workshop or small group conversation to explore career possibilities, understand your skills, and plan for your career or further education. Visit clnx.utoronto.ca for more information.
Build Your Network
The Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) program connects students and recent alumni with experienced A&S alumni to learn about career paths available to them after graduation. These networking events are a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about career prospects and gain insights and lived experiences from A&S alumni to better understand how their Faculty of Arts & Science degree can launch them into a variety of exciting careers.
Explore Your Program
While you’re a student, get the support and make the connections you need to transition into your dream career.
Talk to your professors to better understand and prioritize your opportunities in the context of your discipline.
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.
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