Study Abroad | Rome
Spring 2024: Academics

Course Code: ARCH 321

Instruction Language: English

This course explores the engineering techniques and production systems used in the construction of the architectural masterpieces of the Roman world: aqueducts, bridges, domes, roads, amphitheaters, atriums, temples, and other public places. We will study the sophisticated construction processes, the use of materials and building practices that made possible the completion of such monumental and long lasting structures. We will survey a broad range of ancient technologies -cranes, concrete, water supply and more- their practical implications, applications and developments. In class sessions will be complemented by field visits to observe directly the evidence of construction methods and to discover the economic, industrial, organizational and technological processes that lie behind the creation of ancient Rome monuments. Course pre-requisites: Introductory history course, plus Ancient Roman art and/or architecture and/or history or advisor approval.

Course Code: FNAR 210

Instruction Language: English

Through this course students will acquire a broad grasp of the roles and aims of drawing as both an analytical and an expressive tool of artistic and communicative inquiry. Rome is at the center of the drawing process, which aims at exploring and communicating in a visual way the most peculiar sites of the city, from the Tiber River to the numerous Roman churches, galleries and museums. The course is organized in both indoor and outdoor sessions. The production of a sketchbook is an essential part of the course and it helps the students to record the city, create ideas, and show how drawing is an open and mobile tool for exploring reality. Pre-requisites: An introductory drawing class.

Course Code: AHST 210

Instruction Language: English

The class is taught on site in Rome and during field trips to Florence and Naples. This course covers selected topics in Italian art, especially pertaining to painting and sculpture, up to the Renaissance and the Baroque ages. Early Italian art from the Etruscans and the Romans up to the early modern times will be considered in their art historical contexts; key topics will be covered such as artistic patronage as well as other social, religious and cultural developments. Students write a project paper based on a topic agreed with the instructor and related to field exploration. Intro to fine art or Italian art history, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: HIST/POLI/SOCI 330

Instruction Language: English

The course deals with the features and the evolution of the Italian and especially Roman painting, sculpture and architecture in the Renaissance and Baroque periods between the fourteenth and the seventeenth centuries. The transition from the Medieval to the early modern times in Rome will be examined from the art historical point of view. Students will get to know impressive works of art along with the key figures of their masters within the social, cultural and historical contexts of their production and fruition. The focus of the course is Rome and classroom lectures are complemented by on-site visits to works by masters such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Pre-requisites: Introduction to Art History, History of Western Civilization, English Language and Composition or equivalents.

Course Code: AHST 310

Instruction Language: English

The course deals with the features and the evolution of Italian and especially Roman painting, sculpture and architecture in the Renaissance and Baroque periods between the fourteenth and the seventeenth centuries. The transition from the Medieval to the early modern times in Rome will be examined from the art historical point of view. Students will get to know impressive works of art along with the key figures of their masters within the social, cultural and historical contexts of their production and fruition. The focus of the course is Rome and classroom lectures are complemented by on-site visits to works by masters such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Pre-requisites: Introduction to Art History or History of Western Civilization, plus intermediate Art History, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: AHST 320

Instruction Language: English

This course surveys the history of Roman civilization from antiquity to present times with special focus on Rome’s material cultural, artistic and architectural evidences. The Classical, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, as well as the modern and the contemporary features of Roman art and civilization will be analyzed, also through frequent visits of churches, museums, and other places of artistic interest. Pre-requisites: Introductory history, art history , and history of western civilization, or equivalent (or advisor approval)

Course Code: BUSI 320

Instruction Language: English

The course covers the development of fashion and fashion industry in Italy through visual merchandising and retail with particular focus on Rome. Peculiars aspects in relation to the in-store experience of the costumer vs the spread of the e-commerce model of buying will be addressed and discussed. In this respect, students will engage in a project called The Luxury Shopping Experience, for the sake of which they are tasked with visiting, examining and reporting about specific luxury stores of the Via Condotti and Via Borgognona fashion district in Rome. Pre-requisites: Intermediate Business course or equivalent, or advisor approval

Course Code: COMM/ENGL 330

Instruction Language: English

This course explores basic features of journalism, approached from a comparative perspective and with a special focus on travel writing and the exploration of city of Rome. Class excursions will be planned in and around Rome where students will learn to observe and report on these trips by using the highly detailed and personal style characteristics of travel writing. The course aims at developing students’ research and writing skills as well as to study and apply various techniques employed by the media. Students will complete a series of writing assignments based on class outings and personal travels. In-class and outside reading assignments will augment classroom discussion. Pre-requisites: Intro to composition, plus intermediate or higher writing course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: FASH 321

Instruction Language: English

The place of Italy in today’s world economy is relevant. This course aims at exploring the evolution and the features of consumption of goods and services in Italy. A variety of approaches from other disciplines, such as social and cultural anthropology as well as micro-economy will help analyze the topics at the core of the course. Italian society will be approached from the point of view of consumer society to see how a specific Italian style has been evolving in specific areas such as fashion, industrial design, advertising, sport, food and beverages. The shaping of a specifically Italian cultural identity as related to all those aspects will also be examined and discussed. Visits to major Italian companies will be integral part of the course. Pre-requisites: Introductory and Intermediate Marketing, or Fashion coursework, or equivalent (or advisor approval)

Course Code: CLAS 320

Instruction Language: English

This interdisciplinary course analyzes ancient Roman conceptions of gender and sexuality within the context of contemporary debate and scholarship. Using a broad range of ancient sources (both textual and material) and contemporary scholarship, students will examine ideas relating to masculinity and femininity; male and female roles in public and private life; non-binary gender identities; hetero-, bi- and homosexuality; the impact of gender and sexuality on different aspects of life and culture in ancient Rome; the use and misuse of Roman ideas about gender and sexuality in contemporary debate. Visits to museums and archaeological sites will illustrate how ideas about gender and sexuality shaped public and private space, architecture and art. Pre-requisites: History of Western Civilization, One Philosophy course, English Language and Composition, plus intermediate classics course (or equivalent)

Course Code: HIST 310

Instruction Language: English

This course explores the entire history of Rome, from its legendary founding by Romulus and Remus, to the Republic period leading to the expansion of Rome throughout Italy and Europe, finally establishing the most powerful Empire of ancient times, eventually becoming Christian. From the rise of the Roman civilization to its transformation and subsequent dissolution, the fall of the Roman Empire under the arrival of the Germans will be discussed with its opening towards the dark ages of the early medieval periods. Major archaeological sites in Rome will be visited and will host lectures and discussions. The course will cover topics such as the evolution of Rome and its architectural as well as political structures, the causes of the rise and fall of the Republic, Augustus as the first Roman emperor, the conquests of the Romans and the peculiarities of Roman civilization, religion in Rome, the causes of the fall of the Roman Empire and the cultural and material legacy of Rome. Pre-requisites: Intro to Western Civilization plus intermediate Rome history course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: ITAL 401

Instruction Language: Italian

This course prepares students to use advanced grammatical structures and vocabulary and enables them to interact with the Italian world at a sophisticated level. Students practice understanding of complex lectures and arguments, in both written and oral form. They are expected to become fluent and spontaneous in their verbal interaction, as well as capable of presenting an argument, orally and in writing. Pre-requisites: Four/five semesters of Italian and/or a pass at ITAL 202: Intermediate Italian II level, and/or min. 70/100 score on the diagnostic test.

Course Code: ITAL 101

Instruction Language: Italian

A thorough introduction to the Italian language for absolute beginners or students with little previous experience, the course teaches essential vocabulary and grammar and develops students’ ability to communicate in an authentic linguistic context. Pre-requisites: None required

Course Code: ITAL 101

Instruction Language: English/Italian

A thorough introduction to the Italian language for absolute beginners or students with little previous experience, the course teaches essential vocabulary and grammar and develops students’ ability to communicate in an authentic linguistic context.

Course Code: ITAL 102

Instruction Language: English/Italian

This course is designed for students with some knowledge of Italian. Starts with a review of basic grammar and vocabulary before progressing to more complex structures and functions. Conversation is a central part of every class, with opportunities for all students to practice listening and comprehension of authentic material as well as oral and written production. Students will also have a greater awareness of Italian culture and society. Pre-requisites: ITAL 101: Elementary Italian I, and/or min. 70/100 score on the diagnostic test.

Instruction Language: Italian

This program is designed for those interested in spending a semester focusing on Italian language and culture. Students take three 4-credit courses taught progressively throughout the semester for a total of 12 credits. Classroom-based learning is supplemented by practice in an authentic context, cultural immersion and home study, enabling students to quickly increase their proficiency. The program is available to all students from Beginner to Intermediate I level and provides an understanding of the cultural contexts associated with Italian language in addition to language proficiency. The Intensive Italian Language Program is a great way to incorporate foreign language proficiency into an undergraduate curriculum and will make a meaningful addition to your résumé as you begin your career and/or apply for graduate studies in any field. Students in the Intensive Italian Language Program may enroll in one additional course among the regular academic offer and earn up to 15 credits.

Course Code: ITAL 201

Instruction Language: English/Italian

In this course students develop their ability to communicate effectively and accurately, making use of expanded vocabulary. Students practice conversation and improve listening and oral production skills in an authentic Italian context. The course covers cultural elements of the Italian society and lifestyle. Reading and writing exercises improve skills in understanding prose and writing letters and messages with appropriate vocabulary. Pre-requisites: ITAL 102, Elementary Italian II, and/or min. 70/100 score on the diagnostic test.

Course Code: ITAL 301

Instruction Language: Italian

This course builds upon the abilities and knowledge acquired in Intermediate Italian I and develops them to enable students to understand and respond to complex lines of written and oral arguments. Students review complex grammar structures and work regularly on reading, composition, phonetics, syntax, and style assignments. Constant conversation practice enables them to communicate competently in Italian. Pre-requisites: 3 semesters of Italian and/or a pass at ITAL 201, Intermediate Italian I, and/or min. 70/100 score on the diagnostic test.

Course Code: CLAS/ENGL 315

Instruction Language: English

This course discusses Greek and Roman mythology through Classical literature and against its historical and cultural backgrounds. English texts from all the major Latin and Greek authors, such as Ovid, Virgil, Aeschylus, Omer, and Hesiod, will help identify and analyze Classical myths in a comparative and interdisciplinary perspective, using the results and methods of literary, religious, historical, and archaeological studies to reconstruct narratives involving gods and heroes. Pre-requisites: Introductory history course, plus intermediate history or classics course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: MKTG 311

Instruction Language: English

The aim of this course is to enhance and develop the skills and knowledge of students regarding international business strategy and the issues that international businesses face. An understanding of the worldwide marketplace is critical for marketers, taking into consideration the challenges and opportunities this marketplace presents. Businesses must take account of, and respond to, a range of issues such as culture, regulations, the political landscape, competitors, languages and etiquette when entering and maintaining a presence in new markets. From a marketing perspective, we need to understand how to put in place marketing strategy, objectives, actions and tactics to benefit from the international environment. Prerequisites: Introductory Marketing and an Intermediate-level Marketing course or equivalent, or advisor approval

Course Code: MSC BS001 – Bass – Music Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Bass Lab, 12 hrs Rhythm Session, 9 hrs Ensemble, 14 hrs Jazz /Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: MSC DS001 – Drums – Music Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Drums Lab, 12 hrs Rhythm Session, 9 hrs Ensemble, 14 hrs Jazz/Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: MSC GT001 – Guitar – Music Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Reading/Harmony, 12 hrs lab Rhythm Session, 9 hrs lab Ensemble, 14 hrs Jazz /Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: MSC PS001 – Percussion – Music Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Percussions Lab, 15 hrs Cuban Santeria, 14 hrs 2nd Ensemble, 14 hrs Jazz /Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: MSC STT 001 – Sax/Trumpet/Trombone – Music Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Brass Section, 15 hrs Combo, 12 hrs Ensemble, 14 hrs Jazz/Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: MSC VC001- Vocals – Musica Program

Instruction Language: Italian

Vocal Lab, 10/12 hrs Choir, 20/24 hrs Ensemble, 12/16 hrs Jazz /Rock History, 10 hrs (optional) Improvisation, 7/8 hrs (subject to audition)

Course Code: COMM/PHOT 315

Instruction Language: English

Both communications and journalism majors as well as photographers will benefit from this course, the aim of which is to foster practical skills and advanced knowledge of photojournalism through the works of major contemporary photographers and through the exploration of the city of Rome. Students will engage in the production of assignments related to the real world of photojournalism. The only technical requisite for the course is to bring to class a DSRL – digital reflex – camera along with a laptop equipped with a photo editing software. Pre-requisites: Intro to photography plus intermediate communications or journalism course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: CRIM/HIST/POLI 332

Instruction Language: English

The class is taught in Rome and Palermo, Sicily. The first part consists of introductory lectures and audiovisual materials analyzed in the classroom, with reports presented. The second part consists of a 3-day field trip based in Palermo, the County Seat of Sicily. Students analyze the political and social history of the Italian Mafia from its origins to the present day. The visits focus on the emergence of a new Sicilian culture and society based on the fight against the Mafia, and the reasons for the successes and failures of the anti-Mafia struggle. The course will provide opportunities to visit sites that document resistance to the local Mafia and encounter local civic associations, community service and solidarity networks that are active in the Sicilian context. Pre-requisites: Intro to history or criminal justice, plus intermediate criminal justice or Italian studies course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: PSYC 310

Instruction Language: English

The course explores human behavior from the social point of view and in a cross-cultural perspective, both in theory and in practice. The focus will be on Italy and the Italians. This course in cross-cultural psychology, through elements of sociology, ecology, anthropology, biology, sociology, gives students the opportunity to discuss the shaping and deployment of human attitudes, behavior, values, communication process and social organization. Specific attention will be devoted to issues such as the individual vs the social, mental health and cross-cultural communication. Students will engage in field research, conducting interviews on topics related to their own study abroad experience while visiting various locations in Rome and Italy. The research as a practical tool of the course, and the course itself, aim at providing students with the opportunity to apply methodologies of inquiry focusing at studying how relationships and behavior in cross-cultural contexts take shape. Course pre-requisites: One 200-level Social Psychology course or an equivalent and or Advisor permission.

Course Code: RLST/HIST 310

Instruction Language: English

The course explores the entire panorama of world religions, from a comparative perspective and using methodologies from various, related disciplines. Ancient Roman, Greek, Eastern religious traditions, as well as the three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – and the polytheistic religious systems – Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism – will be discussed and analyzed along with current developments and the “new-age” religions. Religious, historical, anthropological, sociological, philosophical approaches will be considered to discuss the evolutions of religions and central religious issues, such as the problem of evil, free will, the construction of organized religious institutions, and the shaping of religious identities. Pre-requisites: Introductory  PLUS intermediate world religions course, or advisor approval (or equivalent).

Course Code: RLST/HIST 312

Instruction Language: English

This course analyses and discusses the entire history of the Catholic Church through the most prominent figures of its popes, from the origin of the Christian experience in Palestine, to the construction of the Church as an institution and its developments and crisis through the antique, medieval and modern periods, to the challenges of the present day. Lectures and visits to places of interest in the city of Rome such as catacombs, basilicas, and old Roman Christian houses, will both contribute to shape in the students the awareness concerning the rich and varied tenets in the historical development of the Church as well as of its countless ties with local and international domains linking together religious, cultural, social, and political evolutions. Pre-requisites: Introductory Western Civilization course, plus intermediate European history course, or advisor approval (or equivalent).

Course Code: INTN 305

Instruction Language: English

This course is open to students from all disciplines and majors who wish to participate in a community-based learning experience. The Global Service Learning course combines service in the local community with structured preparation and reflection opportunities. As students engage in service learning, they learn about the context in which service is provided, understand the connection between their service and their coursework, and their role as community members. Community work placement provides students from any discipline and majors with the opportunity to grow academically, professionally, personally and civically through participation in a service-learning experience. The course consists of 20 contact hours of seminars & workshops and 100 hours of supervised community service. Pre-requisites: Completion of two Humanitarian Action electives, one introductory history and political science courses, or advisor’s approval.

Course Code: SOCI 311

Instruction Language: English

This course is designed to introduce students to a historical and sociological analysis of modern and contemporary Rome. We will study the urban development of Rome since 1870, when it became the national capital. Rome, as a physical, historical and artistic place, is a text for us to know and explore. By challenging conventional notions of what it means to be a Roman today, we will explore the transformations taking place in the city’s population, neighborhoods, and the structures of daily life. We will also examine issues facing Rome today, such as tourism, gentrification, housing, environmental concerns, multiculturalism, migration trends, social conflicts and political identities. By using key texts from sociology, urban studies, architecture, and cinema, students will develop an interdisciplinary and historically grounded approach to the understanding of how Rome shapes and is shaped by its inhabitants. On-site classes will be held in a variety of locations in the city in order to analyze their social values and their relationship with the wider urban context. Furthermore, artistic performances and spatial practices will inform the students about the complexities of the space. Pre-requisites: Introductory history or sociology course, plus intermediate history/sociology course, or advisor approval (or equivalent).

Course Code: ANTH/HIST 320

Instruction Language: English

This is a course on the history and the evolution of food-related cultures and behaviors, from the ancient to the recent times, passing through the Classical and the Medieval ages. The focus will be on the social function of eating and food, through the analysis of feastive occasions related to meals, table manners, dietary prescriptions and identities. Different types of sources will be considered, from written texts, to artistic and archaeological finds, to highlight the variety of traditions and social rules developed through the ages with regard to food and eating. Those topics will also be contextualized in the different environments they were part of, such as cities, houses, noble palaces or abbeys.  Pre-requisites: History of Western Civilization, a basic knowledge of ancient history, plus intermediate art history course, or advisor approval (or equivalent)

Course Code: SOCI 325

Instruction Language: English

This course develops an understanding of contemporary Italian culture and style, also touching the role of religion, politics, as well as the fashion industry. A variety of approaches from other disciplines, such as social and cultural anthropology as well as micro-economy will help analyze the topics at the core of the course. Italian society will be analyzed in all of its major components in order to see how a specific type of Italian style has been emerging in contemporary times. The shaping of a specifically Italian cultural identity will be examined and discussed. Visits to major Roman sites are an integral part of the course. Pre-requisites: Basic knowledge in Western Civilization / Anthropology / Sociology.