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.

Current Issues in Agricultural Business (AGRI 250, 295, 415 or AGEC 420 or ANSC 405)

Examination and discussion of current issues and events related to domestic and international agricultural business. Preparation of graduates to effectively and professionally discuss agribusiness 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.

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.

Mathematical Economics for Agriculture (AGEC 485)

This course aims to introduce the main quantitative models for the analysis, evaluation and management of financial assets, and provides the fundamental elements for the quantitative study of bond finance. The student will have the opportunity to learn the terminology and the appropriate concepts for understanding and using the tools of financial mathematics. The critical capacity of describing and developing the basic models of finance will be stimulated with particular attention to the management of the risk-return profile of a financial asset. In parallel, the course develops the main quantitative methodologies useful as a basis for participation in advanced finance courses.

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.

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.

Business Law I (BLAW 301)

Basic principles of the law of contracts, including the elements of a valid contract, performance and remedies for breach of contract. The law of agency. The law of partnerships. Emphasis on the Uniform Commercial Code.

Managerial Finance (FIN 301)

The domestic and multinational corporation, its operating, legal and tax environment. Financial statement analysis, long-term investment decisions, security valuation, cost of capital, international finance, and sources of long-term financing. 

Organization and Management (MGT 301)

Management processes and functions in manufacturing and service organizations. Analysis of organization structure, management practices of planning and control. Motivation and leadership practices. Introduction to techniques and tools of decision processes. Students are required to write case reports and give oral presentations.

Topics in Health Care: European Medicine (NURS 380)

Co-instructed by medical school staff at the University of Siena and Nursing faculty from UT-Martin, this course is an exploration of the similarities and differences between the medical field in Italy and Europe and in the United States. Course includes shadowing of medical professionals at a teaching hospital in Siena.

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.