North American Studies
2004-2006 Undergraduate Catalog | Catalogs

The adoption of the North American Free Trade Accord (NAFTA) is indicative of the growing integration of the North American continent and its three most important countries, the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This integration provides an American response to the emergence of a united European community, and it is an important part of the larger national and international trend toward economic globalization, cultural diversity, and political development. The future of the United States will be experienced through its continental context, so an understanding and appreciation of this context is crucial for today’s American entrepreneurs, public officials, and citizens.

Minor in North American Studies

This minor provides an overview of this diverse, yet interrelated continent. The curriculum offers basic knowledge and tools that may be applied to many major fields in a truly pragmatic manner. Social science, humanities, business, and education majors will find themselves better prepared to apply their learning to the real world of global politics as it emerges within this particular, and potentially dominant, region of the world.

Requirements for the minor include two core courses and four electives that relate to the US, Canada, or Mexico. Two of the elective courses must relate to either Canada or Mexico or both. Two of the four electives must be taken at the 200 or 300 level. At least four courses must be taken at Roosevelt. All courses in the minor must be passed with grades of C or higher. Students may substitute an approved visiting or study abroad program, such as Quebec Studies Summer Program offered through SUNY Plattsburgh, for an elective course.