Because of its multidisciplinary nature and complex structure, individual advising is essential to an American Studies major.

There are many courses that may be included in an American studies major. If a student has a question about whether a course can count toward the major, or if she would like permission to focus her concentration on a topic studied in more than one department, she should consult the director. Students have also done individual majors in areas such as urban studies with a concentration in education policy and urban studies with a concentration in the economics of education. Both prospective and current majors are encouraged to meet with the program director in order to ensure a balance between breadth and depth of study.