Job market

Graduates of American Studies have learned to conduct research with archival and cultural sources, and to write with eloquence and force in English. They have also learned to relate academic knowledge to the contemporary world. Our students are equipped to work in a range of professional fields. Previous graduates now work in journalism, politics, high school teaching, diplomacy, the civil service, management consulting, publishing, law, media, and even standup comedy. New graduates enter a robust and growing network of American Studies alumni and may find a job as a:  

• editor for an (online) news platform: writing and editing articles covering U.S. and international politics for a broad audience. 

• staff member at the University of Amsterdam: supporting education and research projects in your area of expertise. 

• communications advisor at a government agency: advising on communication strategies and translating complex policies into clear messages and press releases. 

• project manager in the international business world: coordinating international projects and supporting organisations in operating effectively across borders. 

• researcher at a science institute: conducting and publishing research on history, politics and culture. 

Where do our History alumni work? 

Graduates of American Studies have learned to conduct research with archival and cultural sources, and to write with eloquence and force in English. They have also learned to relate academic knowledge to the contemporary world. Our students are equipped to work in a range of professional fields. Previous graduates now work in journalism, politics, high school teaching, diplomacy, the civil service, management consulting, publishing, law, media, and even standup comedy. New graduates enter a robust and growing network of American Studies alumni.

An academic career 

Our students are also qualified to move on to a PhD and an academic career. Graduates of our MA programme have gone on to write their PhD dissertations at the University of Amsterdam, the University of Leiden, Brandeis University, the University of Illinois, Boston University, and the University of Virginia, among others. 

Entrepreneurship in the humanities

Do you have ambitions to start your own business? The Humanities Venture Lab is the place for the humanities entrepreneur starting out. As a student or alumnus, you can find training, coaching, inspiration sessions, and a workplace here. Watch the video’s below to see what the Humanities Venture Lab can do for you.

Your diploma is not a farewell

After graduating, you don't have to say goodbye to the University of Amsterdam! We are happy to help you develop your career. You can join the young alumni programme, which will assist you in mapping out your career. And as an alumnus, you can also still use the Student Careers Centre.