The FAST Area Studies Program (Foundations in Area Studies for Translators) is a minor degree option focusing on the national cultures of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Finland. The curriculum focuses on the language(s) and culture(s) of the U.S. and U.K. as the cornerstones of world English, the sociocultural, political and educational institutions by which they are known, and the media and technologies through which they convey information worldwide in English.

The FAST program, based on a foundation of courses from the English Section of the Department of Translation Studies, emphasizes research and writing in addition to its core area studies. It has been a pioneer of American Studies in Finland and the deployment of information technology in teaching and program outreach.

FAST minor students are known for their capability in American, English, Finnish and Canadian Studies, their skills in ICT, and their proficiency in English communication. For details please see the Background and Degree Requirements.