Siena College

Siena's American Studies program allows the inquisitive student to explore the United States through a multitude of disciplines such as history, literature, art, sociology, political science, religion, gender and multicultural studies. American Studies majors are diverse thinkers who often combine this flexible major with study abroad, Pre-Law, certificate programs, minors or another major.

Program Highlights Small class sizes guarantee that students will work closely with faculty, and enjoy maximum flexibility and opportunity. A special connection with the American Studies program at Radboud University in Nijmegen, the Netherlands (Albany’s sister city), brings Dutch students to Siena and sends Siena students to the Netherlands. The McCormick Center for the Study of the American Revolution gives Siena American Studies majors access to internships and opportunities unique to our campus and our region. A focus on service learning and community engagement gives students valuable skills and contacts through their regular academic program and beyond. Opportunities to work alongside active historians as assistants, gaining experience with artifacts, documents, and pedagogical techniques. Internship placements throughout the historically rich Capital Region give students hands-on experience at sites of local, regional and national importance. Senior capstone experience. Requirements for the Major (39 credits) HIST203 - American History I 3 credits HIST204 - American History II 3 credits AMST250 - The American Dream 3 credits AMST451 - American Studies Capstone 3 credits ... [-]

The study of our classical heritage from the Greeks and the Romans is not only exciting, it gives students the tools that will help them succeed in a wide range of future careers. Classics incorporates practically every aspect and discipline of the liberal arts tradition: history, literature, religion, philosophy, art, culture and language.

The major in Classics strives to involve students in an investigation into the foundations of Western Civilization, which are to be discovered in our Greco-Roman heritage. Without the broad perspective that a solid grounding in the origins of Western culture provides, we, as inheritors of that tradition, cannot meaningfully engage in an intelligent dialogue with other cultures and attitudes.... [-]

History majors at Siena College experience history. We require it. Siena students conduct research in archives, record oral histories, intern at museums, travel to historic sites and work with active scholars. Our rigorous program empowers our graduates in business, law, government, education and public history in the U.S. and abroad.

Why study history?

History helps us understand the past so we can explain the present and gain insights into the future. History enables us to make sense of a complex world and provides us with a sense of identity. And history trains us to reason and weigh evidence, to consider multiple interpretations, and to forward our own ideas with vigor, precision, and confidence.... [-]

Are you the type who likes to question authority? Ever wonder whether the script of your life has already been written? Is an afterlife compatible with modern science? Philosophy is a discipline having two hearts: one is to encourage reasoned and critical thinking; the other is to explore the nature of goodness and living well as humans. Thus a student of philosophy has the ability to tackle any job or career that prizes reasoned and ethical interpretative skills, as well as the ability to create text and discourse; that is, philosophy majors are highly flexible and employable.

Our department explores contemporary philosophical questions through the lens of the history of philosophy. We have broad research and teaching interests in the Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, Modern Philosophy, and a variety of topics in American Pragmatism, Analytic Philosophy, and Continental Philosophy.... [-]

Siena's psychology program prepares students for entry into graduate programs and/or careers in academic and professional psychology. It also provides an excellent background for entry into fields such as law, business, and the health professions.

Siena’s psychology program focuses on skill development necessary for careers in the helping and health professions. Here, you’ll develop strong critical thinking, scientific reasoning, communication, and micro-counseling skills, as well as experience in research and data analysis.

Studying psychology at Siena

As a psychology major at Siena, you’ll take a wide range of courses in child, adolescent, and adult psychology, as well as courses in personality, abnormal and physiological psychology, perception, testing, and research methods. You’ll also get plenty of hands-on experience in laboratories and internships, as well as through independent research and opportunities to collaborate on faculty research.... [-]

Studying the world's religions is a central part of understanding human cultures. Religions shape how human beings interpret and interact with other humans, with nature, and with what we take to be most sacred. If you find human beings interesting, you'll find studying the world's religions interesting.

The principal mission of the Religious Studies Department is to help students at Siena understand and appreciate the meanings and roles of religion in human culture. The academic investigation of religion is a component of a liberal arts education and clearly has an important function at a college sustained by the Franciscan tradition.

The Department presents in its courses a critical study and appreciation of the various religious traditions of the world. Through this approach to Religious Studies, the Department provides students with an opportunity to explore the significance of human existence in its relation to the sacred, and alerts them to the importance of religious beliefs and practices in the political, social, aesthetic, and economic arenas.... [-]

Are you a good listener, find that friends seek your support and advice? Do you want to make a difference in the world by helping people with their problems? Are you interested in human rights and social justice? Would you like a professional career? If “yes,” you may want to consider studying social work.

Baccalaureate Social Work (B.S.W.) education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values for a professional helping career in a variety of settings (schools, hospitals, poverty programs, addiction services, shelters, etc).

Employers recognize B.S.W. graduates as entry-level professionals MSW grad schools offer advanced standing options to those from an accredited B.S.W. program, earning a Master's Degree in Social Work in less than 2 years! Siena' s B.S.W. Program has been accredited since 1985 Program Highlights Nationally accredited since 1985. Department has a leadership role with the New York State Social Work Education Association. Emphasis on both classroom and hands-on experiences. 450-hour internship requirement in professionally supervised sites matching students’ interests. Example settings include schools, nursing homes, probation offices, programs serving homelessness, domestic violence shelters, and mental health settings. Focus on the development of communication skills and understanding of social problems necessary to become a professional interviewer and community change agent. Hands-on experience working with individuals, families, groups, and communities to solve problems. Preparation for social work careers in diverse settings such as hospitals, family service agencies, domestic violence programs and more immediately after graduation. Preparation for Master’s in Social Work programs. Requirements for the Major (37... [-]

Sociology addresses the most challenging matters facing society today. If you desire to better understand the complex social forces that affect people’s lives, as well as to become engaged in the study of and solutions to these issues, sociology is the place for you. The sociological perspective is both intellectually rewarding and practically useful for future career paths.

If you want both an involved understanding and a set of practical skills to address these issues, then Sociology is the subject for you!

Are you looking for a socially relevant liberal arts discipline that opens your career options in the field of: Non-Profit, Education, Public Policy, Law, Law Enforcement, Social Work, Government, Business, and Administration?... [-]

A major or minor in Spanish opens the door to Hispanic and Spanish cultures, incredible travel experiences, and a language spoken by 400 million people in the world. Speaking Spanish is a marketable skill valued by employers. It creates possibilities for interacting with others in many environments such as business, healthcare and education. Program Highlights Service learning opportunities: students have worked with local reading programs, pre-K schools and numerous nonprofit organizations that serve local immigrant populations. Class excursions to places such as the Williams College Museum of Art and Repertorio Español, a theater company in New York City. Travel courses to Mexico and Spain allow students to experience what they learn in the classroom firsthand. Students regularly meet and interact with invited scholars, authors and filmmakers from the Spanish-speaking world. Notable speakers include author Julia Alvarez, filmmakers Francesco Taboada Tabone and Juan Carlos Zaldívar, and Eduardo González, a scholar of Transitional Justice. Film screenings and regular tertulias are held by the Spanish Club. Opportunities for research on topics ranging from literary works to artistic movements and medical terminology Multiple study abroad programs allow our students to grow in their Spanish-speaking skills and return even more excited to study Spanish. A Facebook page, SpanishatSiena, keeps students informed of local and campus events, as well as job opportunities. Requirements for the Major (33 credits) SPAN301 - Communication in Spanish I 3 credits SPAN302 - Communication in Spanish II 3 credits SPAN320 - Intro to Hispanic Literature 3 credits SPAN340 - Advanced Grammar... [-]

Through the careful analysis of diverse, multicultural literature and film, Siena English majors develop the skills most-prized by employers: the ability to think critically, to communicate ideas clearly to various readers and audiences, and to engage in dialogue and collaborative problem-solving techniques.

Why study English?

As an English major, you will develop important, lifelong skills that will serve you well in any career—skills including critical thinking, effective communication, and research. You will better understand the human experience through diverse perspectives. You will learn to engage in respectful discussion and debate about historical, social, theoretical, and ethical concerns. In the process, you will sharpen your language and writing skills and expand your imagination and creativity.... [-]

The political science program provides our students with a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the study of politics. Students actively participate in local, state and international communities. We foster informed and empowered citizens and prepare them for successful careers in today's diverse, connected and complex world.

As a political science major, you’ll be trained to think critically about domestic and international political issues and gain a deep understanding of political institutions, processes, and value systems. You’ll also develop analytical and research skills critical to analyzing public opinion polls, statistics, laws, public policy, and the ways political issues affect national and international communities.... [-]

Accounting students at Siena are educated in advanced principles, theories and real-world applications of accounting.

The Accounting Program encourages students to seek as broad an education as possible by completing minors in the liberal arts and sciences, in such fields as computer science, international business, history or political science. After successful completion of the requisite major or certificate courses, students also fulfill basic requirements for admission to the licensing exams for Certified Public Accountancy in New York State, as well as other professional certifications. Students can sit for the CPA examination after earning 150 credit hours.

Accountant, audit associate, controller, fiscal analyst, tax auditor—an accounting degree can lead to a host of careers, but to really excel in any, you need strong analytical, communication, technological and teamwork skills. That’s why we emphasize each here at Siena College, a high-impact learning institution located in the heart of New York’s Capital Region. Whether you think you’d like to work right away in the accounting field or pursue a master's, Siena has you covered.... [-]

Actuarial Science is consistently rated as one of the best careers in America. This discipline is centered in assessing, pricing and ultimately managing institutional risk which is commonly used in the insurance industry and financial professions. Students who are good at mathematics that desire a professional component to their education are typically great candidates for this field.

Actuarial Science is a discipline centered in assessing, pricing and ultimately managing institutional risk which is commonly used in the insurance industry and financial professions. Students who are good at mathematics that desire a professional component to their education are typically interested in this field commonly listed in the Top 10 professions.... [-]

The Siena biochemistry program provides one-on-one attention from the beginning that leads to enhanced research and learning opportunities. As a result, our alumni have high placement rates whether they pursue a job, graduate school or professional school.

As a biochemistry major at Siena, you’ll learn from faculty members who are teacher-scholars. They run vibrant undergraduate research programs while remaining student-centered, emphasizing student participation and engagement both in and out of the classroom. Our department is housed in Siena’s state-of-the-art Morrell Science Center, with additional laboratories and classroom space in the adjacent Roger Bacon Hall.

Program Highlights Research opportunities for undergraduates. Small classes: Our largest classroom only seats 36 students and our largest lab has space for 16 students. Classes and labs taught by faculty (no graduate teaching assistants). Hands-on experience through the SAInT Center, which houses cutting edge, research grade scientific instruments. Access to the Siena College High-Performance Computing Cluster. Opportunity to present research at regional and national conferences. Opportunity to work with faculty on nationally competitive research grants. Development of critical thinking, communication, research, advanced instrumentation, data analysis and technical writing skills. Requirements for the Major (53 credits) BIOL220 - Cell Biology 4 credits BIOL260 - Molecular Genetics 4 credits BIOL420 - Biochemistry 4 credits ... [-]

Biology educates students on the underlying principles governing life. At Siena, students learn this in small lecture and laboratory sections that are taught by department faculty (not teaching assistants). Regardless of your specific career path, the critical thinking and hands-on laboratory skills that you develop as a biology major will give you a significant advantage over the competition.

Our goal of placing students in competitive post-graduate programs and careers requires that we offer an intense and rigorous program. All biology majors benefit from high expectations.

As a Siena College biology major, you will work hard, but along the way, you will form life-long bonds and have a lot of fun, too. The high standards of our program ensure that students who excel in our program are routinely accepted into high quality medical and other professional schools. Equally important, our alums report back that their Siena education prepared them well for life after Siena.... [-]

Siena College’s business major is a flexible, multidisciplinary program that allows students to customize the curriculum based on their individual interests and career goals.

Students in the business major first experience our business core courses and, after sampling a variety of subjects, choose two concentrations anytime before their junior year. They graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business and two concentrations listed on their transcript.

The 20 concentrations include:

International Business Entrepreneurship Business Analytics Accounting Theory and Foundations Corporate Accounting and Internal Controls Government and Not-for-Profit Accounting Foundations of Economics Real World Economics Fundamentals of Finance Investment Fundamentals Corporate Finance Financial Planning Strategic Human Resource Development Ethical Leadership in a Global Environment Not-For-Profit Consulting Strategic Communication Market Research and Analytics Sales and Business to Business Marketing Marketing Communications and Digital Marketing Sports and Services Marketing Highlights: Customization. Students are able to choose concentrations that are most appealing to them. Choices. Students have the flexibility to choose courses of study and combinations of concentrations that meet their unique needs and desires, as compared to choosing from a handful of majors. Marketability. The concentrations offered are current, relevant and valuable in today's marketplace and make our students' resumes to stand out. Interdisciplinary. Students from the Schools of Liberal Arts and Science can expand their educational experience by completing a concentration from the business major. Pre-Business Foundation and Skills (12 credit and 5 courses) ... [-]

Chemistry students develop a solid foundation in chemical principles through coursework, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and research opportunities. Recent grads have worked at GE, Albany Molecular Research, and New York State’s Wadsworth Center Laboratory.

Chemistry: The Central Science

“Chemistry: The central science.” That phrase, popularized in a 1977 chemistry textbook, refers to the link that chemistry provides between the physical sciences, mathematics, biological sciences, and the environment. Chemistry and biochemistry play a fundamental role in our everyday lives—from the air we breathe, the water we drink, and soil we walk upon to the food we eat, the medicine that improves our health, and the clothes we wear.... [-]

Computational Science is a modern interdisciplinary field that focuses on solving scientific problems computationally. It combines advanced methods and tools from applied mathematics and computer science to study real-world scientific problems, often by using computer simulations and modeling. Students interested in becoming computational scientists can start off on the right foot at Siena College. Program Highlights Only a handful of colleges in the United States offer a major/minor in computational science at the undergraduate level. Students acquire skills in the areas of programming, simulation and modeling, numerical methods and applied mathematics, computer visualization techniques, computational tools and applications to natural sciences and technical communication. Access to the High-Performance Computing Cluster, allowing students to perform cutting-edge computational research. The computational science program is highly interdisciplinary, combining mathematics, physics, computer science and applied computational techniques. The presence of large nanotech and biotech companies in the Capital Region puts Siena’s graduates in an excellent position when looking for jobs, entering careers in industry or government labs or pursuing graduate studies. Requirements for the Major (73 credits) CSIS110 - Intro to Computer Science 3 credits CSIS120 - Intro to Programming 4 credits CSIS210 - Data Structures 3 credits CSIS310 - Numerical Methods 3 credits CSIS385 - Design+Analysis of Algorithm 3 credits MATH110 - Calculus I 4 credits MATH120 - Calculus II 4 credits MATH210 - Calculus III 4 credits MATH230 - Linear Algebra 3 credits MATH240 - Intro to Computer Algebra 3 credits MATH250 - Discrete Structures 4 credits MATH380 - Differential Equations 3... [-]

Computer Science focuses on solving problems from a scientific perspective by applying software engineering, information systems, and computational theory. Our program emphasizes group projects, hands-on labs and one-on-one interaction to ensure students’ success in their future careers. Why choose CS? The careers are diverse and exciting, employment opportunities are increasing and starting salaries are among the highest for bachelor degree graduates.

Computer science careers are diverse and exciting, employment opportunities are increasing, and starting salaries are among the highest for bachelor’s degree graduates. As a computer science major at Siena, you’ll study topics including Java programming, user interface design, hardware, computer graphics, robotics, databases, web design, and artificial intelligence. We emphasize group projects, hands-on laboratory learning, and one-on-one interaction with faculty.... [-]

You should consider Economics if you enjoy clear and logical approaches to exploring the riches and poverty which characterize economic life. Your studies in Economics will help you gain perspectives and solve problems related to public life, the business world, and the decisions shaping your future.

If you pick up the newspaper or turn on the news, it’s clear that economic forces impact all of us on a daily basis. The field of economics encompasses important societal issues, from social welfare programs, employment rates, and income inequality to inflation, monopolies, and antitrust laws.

Why study economics?

A background in economics helps you understand, debate, discuss and form national and international policy. Economists ask questions about societal programs and problems and employ mathematical and statistical tools to form sound policy. If you’re interested in international trade, international affairs, business cycles, or the stock markets, consider majoring in economics. A degree in economics also prepares you for careers in banking, law, marketing, journalism, environmental science, and medicine.... [-]

The environmental studies and sciences program provides an interdisciplinary foundation for students interested in the identification, study and solution of environmental problems. By integrating field work, community engagement, internships and geospatial analysis into a liberal arts curriculum, students gain the skills necessary to take their passion for the environment to the next level.

In a time of climate instability, environmental impacts and challenges are many. As an environmental studies or environmental science major at Siena, you'll be prepared for careers in ecological restoration; pollution abatement; sustainability coordination; renewable energy systems; and environmental education, policy or law, to name just a few.... [-]

Siena's finance program provides students with a robust core of courses as well as highly specialized electives that bridge to professional careers or graduate school. By integrating the use of the Hickey Financial Technology Center into our curriculum, we provide students access to unparalleled hands-on experience with tools and technology used in the financial industry.

Our curriculum is designed to develop your ability to identify financial problems, analyze their impact, and design solutions that will withstand critical examination. As a finance major, you will receive the foundation necessary to become a well-rounded, ethical, and innovative thinker.

The advantages of majoring in finance at Siena:... [-]

The Management Department prepares students to manage resources, make informed decisions, and lead with integrity in a global environment.

No matter where you work—start-up, small business, corporate, government, non-profit—you need a set of critical management skills to be successful in today’s diverse global environment. We asked hiring managers and accomplished alumni what our students needed to thrive in their careers and created a program based on their input. As a result, Siena’s management program is relevant, engaging, and flexible. You will learn and practice skills that apply to the changing world: thinking like an entrepreneur, managing complex projects, communicating with confidence, energizing a team toward high performance and making informed decisions. You will learn to use your talents to serve not just your employer, but society as a whole. Finish our program and start your own company, work in the public or private sectors, join a not-for-profit or pursue graduate education. You’ll have the skills you need to succeed.... [-]

Siena's marketing degree provides a competitive edge for careers in packaged goods, sports marketing, international marketing, e-commerce (social media marketing), advertising, consulting and sales. Our approach includes hands-on experience with local business and academic research with faculty, which improves our students' salary potential and advancement opportunities.

Siena’s marketing curriculum will provide you with the knowledge and skills to identify marketing opportunities and develop appropriate marketing strategies to profitably pursue those opportunities. At Siena, your courses will expose you to the major concepts, skills, and tools that you’ll need for a career in marketing or for graduate business programs.... [-]

A strong foundation in mathematics provides the effective thinking and communication skills needed to succeed in any technical endeavor. Whether it is the physical or social sciences, education, law, business, medicine or government, a math degree will take you anywhere.

At Siena, mathematics majors have learning experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. Our students attend and present at national math conferences. They get accepted to programs and internships sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the American Mathematical Association, and The George Washington University. They conduct research with professors. And they enroll in semester-long math programs at Penn State and Smith College, and in Moscow and Budapest.... [-]

Siena's physics degree focuses on active student participation in cutting-edge research. This hands-on experience, in addition to a demanding curriculum, teaches you how to think critically and prepares you for exciting careers in a broad range of fields. Program Highlights Undergraduate research Small class sizes Dynamic, growing department Commitment to exploring new and effective pedagogical techniques Accessible faculty Student travel (Puerto Rico, China, Greenland and more) Access to computational cluster Interdisciplinary work in biophysics, electrical engineering, and astrochemistry Requirements for the Major PHYS130 - General Physics I 4 credits PHYS140 - General Physics II 4 credits PHYS220 - Modern Physics 4 credits PHYS250 - Intro to Computational Physics 3 credits PHYS260 - Thermal Physics 3 credits PHYS470 - Advanced Laboratory I 1 TO 3 credits PHYS472 - Advanced Laboratory II 1 TO 2 credits ... [-]

If you have a passion for the arts—whether it’s a love of music, theatre, painting, drawing, videography, photography or broadcast journalism—consider majoring in creative arts at Siena.

Siena’s Creative Arts Department will provide you with focused study in the visual arts, music, theatre, or broadcast journalism, preparing you for personal, academic, or professional work in the arts. In addition to classroom learning, you’ll have opportunities to attend and perform in campus shows, mount exhibits, and tour area museums.

Creative Arts coursework

Want to prepare for a career in music? Explore our courses in vocal and orchestral performance, music history, and music theory. If theatre is your passion, take performance, theatre management, or set design. Or try your hand at documentary filmmaking, broadcast journalism, graphic design, costume and makeup design, or painting. You can even combine courses in different areas to create an intermedia arts experience.... [-]

The Student-Designed Interdisciplinary Major (S.D.I.M.) is a rigorous program for highly motivated students who have a clear plan, the creativity, and the determination to chart their own course of study. It is designed for students who have an interest other than the ones covered by traditional majors. S.D.I.M. can be a primary major or a second major.

The Student-Designed Interdisciplinary Major (S.D.I.M.) is a rigorous program for highly motivated students who have a clear plan, the creativity, and the determination to chart their own course of study. It is designed for students who have an interest other than the ones covered by traditional majors. S.D.I.M. can be a primary major or a second major.... [-]

A major in French means opening the door to French and Francophone cultures, amazing travel experiences and a language spoken by 338 million people in the world. It creates possibilities for interacting with others at the national and/or international level in industries such as business, politics and education. Program Highlights A variety of Study Abroad programs in France and French-speaking countries, some of which include volunteer learning experiences or business internships in France, Belgium and Senegal. French conversation courses are capped at 15 students while other French courses are capped at 20 students. Faculty mentors who value and support students’ intellectual growth and ... [-]