Courses

Microeconomics (ECON 202)

The course provides an intermediate level understanding of the microeconomic approach to economic analysis. The course first presents the classical approach to individual choice, to demand, and to the general competitive economic balance of pure exchange. The production choices of the companies are then examined, under different hypotheses regarding the form of market. Finally, an introductory analysis is offered to the problems of strategic interaction, to externalities, to public goods, to decisions in the presence of risk and uncertainty, to asymmetric information, to the functioning of markets and organizations. The course presents numerous applications of theoretical concepts to illustrate their role in understanding and interpreting real economic facts.

World Literature (ENGL 271): Italy through the Travelers’ and the Natives’ Eyes

This course explores the writings of the illustrious figures, students, and teachers from all over Europe and the world whom Siena has hosted within its walls, discussing the multiplicity of ways in which Siena has presented herself to travelers and how she has been perceived. The course will also explore the writings of the Sienese and how Siena’s inhabitants have responded to the foreigner’s perception of their city. This relationship between travelers and natives will reveal to the student the historical importance of Siena as a transit point for those who travel the Italian peninsula, and help them explore their own relationship to the city as travelers and temporary residents. Assignments will help students better articulate their experience studying abroad.

Music in our Time (MUS 112)

A study of music in various cultures circa 1900 to the present, this course is designed to help students learn new ways of listening to music in order to better understand rich musical heritage. While music of all kinds will be studied, art music will be the primary focus. No prior musical training is required.

International Agricultural Trade (AGEC 335 or ECON 321)

The aim of the course is to provide the basic tools for understanding the main international economic phenomena underlying the globalization process. Furthermore, the course aims to provide the basic knowledge of commercial policies, monetary and fiscal policies in an open economy, the determination of the exchange rate and the choice of the exchange rate regime. Students should have taken introductory courses in Microeconomics and Macroeconomics prior to enrolling.

Agricultural Price Analysis (AGEC 370)

The course provides an intermediate level understanding of the microeconomic approach to economic analysis. The course first presents the classical approach to individual choice, to demand, and to the general competitive economic balance of pure exchange. The production choices of the companies are then examined, under different hypotheses regarding the form of market. Finally, an introductory analysis is offered to the problems of strategic interaction, to externalities, to public goods, to decisions in the presence of risk and uncertainty, to asymmetric information, to the functioning of markets and organizations. The course presents numerous applications of theoretical concepts to illustrate their role in understanding and interpreting real economic facts.

Rural Economic Development (AGEC 390)

The course illustrates, through an appropriate use of economic categories, the historical process of contemporary economic development. While focusing attention on Europe, the course considers the processes of economic growth in the world by extending the discussion to all geographical areas. The course is based on an exhibition that combines economic theory, description and analysis of stylized facts, measurement of economic phenomena.

Dynamics and Development of Leadership in Agriculture (AGRI 450)

A study of the dynamics, strategies and parliamentary procedure skills needed by leaders of occupational, civic and social organizations. Practical approaches through group interactions and participation. A detailed examination of organizations and individuals within organizations. Students are required to write reports and give oral presentations.

Nutrition and Wellness and the Mediterranean Diet (HPMG 300)

This course will analyze how the Mediterranean model asserts itself in Italian cooking, beginning with the influence of Piroddi Lorenzo, the father of the Mediterranean diet. Students will explore the principles that underlie the simplicity and sophistication of the Mediterranean diet in discussions of heath, wellness, and nutrition, as well as in the preparation of representative dishes. The preparation and study of basic Italian cuisine through the use of seasonal, local products, including grains, olive oil, fish, fruit, wine and vegetables will help students understand why the Mediterranean diet plays a key role in longevity and quality of life. Course will include bi-weekly culinary classes and visits to artisan food stores and supermarkets to practice reading food labels.

Environmental and Agricultural Law (AGEC 375 or POSC 490)

Survey of law and its application to agriculture and natural resource management. Property, contracts, torts, drainage and water rights. Environmental law, land tenure, employment, forms of business organization, estate planning, and regulatory law. Particular focus will be placed on comparative politics and international relations, covering the principles of constitutionalism and public law, particularly Italian constitutional law and its relation to the European Union.

Special Topics: International Protocol (AGEC 313 or AGRI 415)

This course provides a study of prominent international business cultural norms, language, processes, strategies and goals, and history. Special attention is paid to these elements and how they connect to the current U. S. business climate and overall communicative competence, especially as it relates to cross-cultural communication. The course utilizes guest speakers and may include travel to local internationally owned businesses. It will involve trips to businesses/shops/locations in Italy.

Wine Economics in Italy (AGEC 430)

This is an applied economics course examining world markets for alcoholic beverages – primarily wine, but also the beer and spirits industries and others. It will explore the economics and geography of wine/beer/spirits production and marketing. The course will incorporate lectures, readings, discussions, and experiential learning opportunities. It will focus on (1) history, with substantial emphasis on international trade; (2) marketing, with substantial emphasis on industrial organization and branding; and (3) current issues in the market for alcoholic beverages. The course will be an application of concepts from various economic subdisciplines, including microeconomics, international economics, game theory, industrial organization, and environmental economics, among others. The primary emphasis of this semester’s class will be the Italian wine industry.

Agricultural and Food Marketing in Italy (AGEC 350 or AGEC 335)

This is an applied course examining agricultural and food marketing in Europe. Theory and practice of marketing agricultural commodities, as well as factors impacting the mobility of agricultural products, labor, and inputs, will be addressed. Specific emphasis will be placed on trade policies of European agricultural producers, value-added products, distributional issues and trade barriers, and market structures in European agriculture. Regional branding and pricing strategies will also feature in both classroom lecture/discussions and experiential learning opportunities.

Resource Economics in Italy (AGEC 445)

This applied economics course investigates economic, social, and political factors involved in conservation practices and utilization of natural resources. Students will examine current environmental and natural resource policies, discuss investment criteria (benefit-cost analysis, multi-objective planning, etc.) for mitigation, and consider externalities and environmental impacts of economic activity. The primary emphasis of this semester’s course is to examine natural resources in Italy, including Italian/European policy regarding the use and distribution of those resources, the social and economic history of those resources, and their significance to the region.

Current Issues in Animal Agriculture (AGRI 250, 295, 415 or AGEC 420 or ANSC 405)

Examination and discussion of current issues and events related to animal agriculture. Preparation of graduates to effectively and professionally discuss animal agriculture and its strengths and weaknesses. Possible topics include the EU and agriculture; Italian policy and government related to agriculture; the slow-food movement; wine, olive oil, and dairy industries in Tuscany; and agro-tourism.

International Protocol (INFS 465)

This course provides a study of prominent international business cultural norms, language, processes, strategies and goals, and history. Special attention is paid to these elements and how they connect to the current U. S. business climate and overall communicative competence, especially as it relates to cross-cultural communication. The course utilizes guest speakers and may include travel to local internationally owned businesses. It will involve trips to businesses/shops/locations in Italy.

Fashion and Merchandising Abroad (FASH 300 or FASH 309)

Functional and sociocultural aspects of dress and adornment in world cultures, specifically in Italy. Historical, technological and economic influences, including tours of wholesale and retail establishments in national fashion centers.

Italy through the Travelers’ and the Natives’ Eyes: From the Grand Tour travelers to the Italian writers (ENGL 271)

This course explores the writings of the illustrious figures, students, and teachers from all over Europe and the world whom Siena has hosted within its walls, discussing the multiplicity of ways in which Siena has presented herself to travelers and how she has been perceived. The course will also explore the writings of the Sienese and how Siena’s inhabitants have responded to the foreigner’s perception of their city. This relationship between travelers and natives will reveal to the student the historical importance of Siena as a transit point for those who travel the Italian peninsula, and help them explore their own relationship to the city as travelers and temporary residents. Assignments will help students better articulate their experience studying abroad.

Italian Medieval Art and Architecture (FA 467)

This course explores the historical, political, and cultural evolution of central and northern Italy between the 5th and 14th centuries through a study of relevant paintings, sculpture, and architecture within their cultural and historical contexts. Includes lessons on-site in and around Siena and Florence.

Introduction to Lyric Opera from the 17th to the 20th Century (MUS 193)

Provides an overview of the development of lyric opera in Europe, with a focus on Italy. The course uses an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the political, social, intellectual, and economic conditions that contributed to the development of lyric opera. Students will also analyze music, drama, libretto structure, musical forms, and the different types of arias. During opera season, the course may include visits to lyric operatic performances.

Music in our Time (MUS 112)

A study of music in various cultures circa 1900 to the present, this course is designed to help students learn new ways of listening to music in order to better understand rich musical heritage. While music of all kinds will be studied, art music will be the primary focus. No prior musical training is required.