The Proposed Curriculum

Curricular Overview

Each semester, the curriculum combines Williams’ style of intimate, seminar-based learning with special opportunities for experiential learning in the field. 

In Fall 2008, topics will include a field-based documentary production course, as well as a field-based course in New York City wildlife, city ecosystems, and urban environmentalism.

In Spring 2009, Professor Dorothy Wang will be teaching an interdisciplinary literature course, while Professor Ondine Chavoya’s course on contemporary visual art in the city will involve first-hand studio visits with artists working in New York right now.

Fieldwork
Each week, students are expected to complete at fifteen hours of fieldwork. The program offers excellent placements in New York organizations, including public health institutions, governmental departments, community-based organizations, museums, and cultural institutions.
2 Seminars
Two seminar courses meet once a week.
Metropolitan Studies
In 2008-9, Williams In New York will offer a new cooperation with New York University. WNY students will enroll in one course in NYU’s Metropolitan Studies program, offering students structured frameworks for thinking about urban studies. Exact course titles will become available in the spring.