American Studies
CASAM 501 Research Seminar in American Studies
Tues 12:30 – 3:15pm
Prof. Haenraets
American Studies majors and minors complete their program of study by undertaking a one- or two- semester (AM 501 and/or AM 502) senior project based on original research or criticism. Topics vary by semester. Effective Fall 2023, this course fulfills a single unit in each of the following BU Hub areas: Writing-Intensive Course, Research and Information Literacy.
Topic for Fall 2025: Adaptive Reuse Adaptive reuse and revitalization of historical places has become indispensable towards achieving healthy, sustainable and vibrant built environments. Repurposing sites and integrating new design in buildings, landscapes and urban districts demands considered approaches, an understanding of concepts of significance and value, and insights into principles of historical preservation and sustainable development. Managing change through adaptive reuse can be a framework for some of the most creative and innovative thinking, and assist in addressing climate change challenges.
CASAM 546 Places of Memory: Historic Preservation Theory and Practice
Prof. White
Tues 3:30-6:15 pm
Covers key aspects of the history, theory, and practice of historic preservation. Preservation is discussed in the context of cultural history and the changing relationship between existing buildings and landscapes and attitudes toward history, memory, invented tradition, and place. Also offered as CASAH 546 and CASHI 546
CASAM 555 Boston Architectural and Community History Workshop
Fri 11:15am – 2:00pm
Focuses on class readings, lectures, and research on a single neighborhood or community in Boston (or Greater Boston). Greatest emphasis is on using primary sources– land titles and deeds, building permits, fire insurance atlases and other maps. Explores places and sources that help assess and narrate the rich history of architectural and urban development. Also offered as CASAH 554 and CASHI 569.
CASAM 775 Independent Research Project Colloquium
Restricted to students in their final semester of the Preservation Studies Master’s Program. Provides for the research and writing of an independent, rigorous, and original capstone project in the preservation field, with guidance from faculty.
CASAM 867 Material Culture
Prof. Moore
Tues 3:30 – 6:15pm
Introduction to the theory and practice of the interdisciplinary study of material culture, which includes everything we make and use, from food and clothing to art and buildings. Explore contemporary scholarship from a range of disciplines. Also offered as CASAH 867.
Affiliated Departments
This is only a sampling of courses. Please refer to individual department websites and the University Class Schedule for complete course offerings.
Note: Graduate students must take classes at the 500+ level.