Canisius College

Full time faculty from several academic departments. John Occhipinti, Director.

In our increasingly globalized and interdependent world, the study of Europe is more important than ever before. European Studies is an interdisciplinary program designed to familiarize students with the culture, language, history, and politics of this important continent. For good or ill, our world has been shaped by Europe’s history, as well as its rich cultural traditions, including its languages, literature, art and music — from antiquity to the present. Meanwhile, the expanding European Union has become an important player in international politics and business and represents Europe’s future in the 21st century.

European Studies can be pursued as part of a double or triple major, as a minor, or as a certificate program. These programs are intended to supplement a major in a traditional academic discipline, as well as provide a “home” for courses taken while studying abroad in Europe.

European Studies helps students build their resumes and combines well with majors in fine arts, foreign language, history, political science, international relations, or international business.

The European Studies Program encourages students to develop fluency in a modern European foreign language and participate in short-term or semester-long study abroad programs in Europe. By guiding students in their course selection and encouraging them to develop valuable skills and experiences, European Studies helps prepare students for graduate school or fellowship programs, such as the Fulbright Scholarship, as well as careers in international law, business, diplomacy or teaching

European Studies Major Curriculum:

Dual Degrees and Requirements
Students must have a second major in a traditional academic discipline and maintain at least a 2.0 Q.P.A in all course work to remain in the program. An unlimited number of courses may be applied to the European Studies major from area studies, the All-College Honors Program or a second or third major. No more than four courses at the 100-level may be counted toward European  Studies. At least one course in the major must be taught by a member of the History Department, and one must be taught by a member of the Political Science Department.

Grammar-based courses in a modern European language or those on European literature may be counted toward the foreign language, literature and culture or major elective categories noted above. Latin may not be used to fulfill the modern foreign language requirement, but courses in the classics can be counted in the major. For further details and options, students should consult with their advisor and the Director of the European Studies Program.

Recommended Schedule:
This will vary according to the second or third academic major. Students are encouraged to fulfill their area studies or All College Honors requirements by taking courses on Europe in the social sciences, art and literature, history, religion, philosophy and foreign language. It is especially important for students to pursue a European foreign language at least through the 215-216 level and fulfill Area IV or Honors history requirements by taking courses on Europe. Students with a strong interest in European politics should take PSC 150 during their first year. Students are also strongly encouraged to study abroad in Europe for one semester and should contact the Office of International Student Programs for details about such opportunities.

European Studies Minor:

No more than three courses at the 100-level may be counted toward the minor. Courses taken from a second or third major, area studies or the All-College Honors Program may be applied to the European Studies minor. A maximum of two courses in a modern European foreign language may be counted toward the language, literature or culture category of the minor.

European Studies Certificate:
This has the same requirements as the minor, with the addition of an academic semester abroad in an approved program. All Canisius College study abroad programs in Europe are approved. For more information, contact the Office of International Student Programs. Many courses taken abroad can be applied to the requirements of the major, minor or certificate.

Co-Curricular Opportunities
Students may participate in an annual international, intercollegiate simulation of the European Union, known as EuroSim, which is related to PSC 355/HIS 331. This program is held in Europe and New York State in alternating years. Additional information is available on the European Studies Program website and from the Political Science Department. Students may also enjoy an international living experience in the new Eastwood Residence Hall.