Communication
Learn a new language or discover the power of writing to tell your personal story with our communication courses.
How to Register
- Register online by selecting "Add to Cart" on the desired course(s) and select "Cart" at the bottom of the page when you are ready to process your registration.
- The “Seats Left” information is updated every half hour and when you checkout.
- Other registration options are available.
NOTE: Individuals enrolling in on-campus classes must follow the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for students and should submit the COVID-19 Vaccination Documentation Form. Exemptions to these requirements may be requested based on either religious conviction or health reasons by submitting the appropriate Health Services form.
Courses
- A to Z Grant Writing
- American Sign Language
- Beginner's Guide to Getting Published
- Beginning Conversational French
- Conversational Japanese
- English as a Second Language
- Getting Paid to Talk
- Ideas: Mining for Freelance Writing Gold
- Instant Italian
- Introduction to Screenwriting for Television or Movies
- Spanish for Law Enforcement
- Speed Spanish
A to Z Grant Writing
Do you love writing and building rewarding, long-lasting relationships? Do you have a passion for a cause? As a grant writer, you can help nonprofit organizations, schools, religious institutions, and research organizations acquire the funds they need to operate and to thrive. In this class, you’ll learn how to put together a gold medal proposal package – one that will capture the attention, and the funds, of donors. This informative course will equip you with the skills and tools you need to enter this exciting and fulfilling field. No matter who you are or what level of experience you have, you can be a successful grant writer. You’ll find the A to Z of writing and submitting successful proposals right here. This is one of the best online grant writing courses around, whether you’re already involved in a related position or are looking to take your first step into this rewarding career. This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 - 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-111 600 | 13 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-111 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-111 602 | 15 seats left | $115 |
American Sign Language
American Sign Language (ASL) is the third most used language in the United States today. This course is designed for students who are interested in learning about the Deaf community and developing ASL expressive and receptive skills. The course will provide an introduction to ASL and Deaf culture. You will learn practical and common language so you can have a brief conversation with someone from the Deaf community. Learning will include a combination of lecture, practice exercises, video, and class discussion.
No class on 3/14 & 4/11
Course will be held in Administration Building, Room 102
Shannon Johnson, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesdays, 2/21 - 5/9 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZCOM-067 600 | 0 seats left | $79 | Section Full Call to be added to wait list |
Beginner's Guide to Getting Published
If your goal is to become a published freelance writer by selling a magazine article, short story, poem, or even a novel to a traditional publisher, this comprehensive workshop will guide you to – and then past – the editor’s desk. You will learn how to become a published writer quickly; submit manuscripts the correct way; find the right publisher for your work; write irresistible query letters; and determine when and how to get an agent. You will also discover 100 ways to make money as a freelance writer. If you really want to succeed, this step by step workshop is a must! Course includes a $5 materials fee.
This is a remote course via Zoom.
LeeAnne Krusemark, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 3/7 6:00 pm - 7:55 pm |
ZCOM-031 600 | 13 seats left | $45 |
Beginning Conversational French
This course will teach you how to communicate easily and comfortably with those who speak French. You will learn practical, common phrases that will make your trips to the many French-speaking regions of the world more pleasant. You will learn dialogue specific to various settings, and you will be surprised how easy it can be to speak another language. This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 – 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-062 600 | 14 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-062 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-062 602 | 15 seats left | $115 |
Conversational Japanese
Whether you want to learn conversational Japanese for travel or just for fun, this course makes it easy and enjoyable for beginners to master the essentials of the Japanese language. Guided by a native Japanese instructor, you’ll also gain cultural knowledge only an insider has. This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 – 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-060 600 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-060 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-060 602 | 15 seats left | $115 |
English as a Second Language
There are 4 levels of ESL offered: Level I, Level II, ESL III and ESL IV. New students should register for the ESL Placement test below. There is no cost for testing. Students will be emailed a placement test to take online. Upon completion of the placement test, students will be placed in Level I or Level II. Students that have already completed Level II will be eligible for Level III. Full payment and a valid Certificate of Residence are required prior to the start of the first class. You will need your Hudson Valley username and password to access the course. The cost of the course is $25. Scholarships are available. Textbooks may be required for your course.
ESL - Level I
This course is designed for beginning-level English language learners. Little prior knowledge of English is needed. Students will be introduced to the basic American English grammar and writing strategies needed to produce simple sentences, short paragraphs, and informal letters. Students will be introduced to reading strategies and apply them to basic or simplified English texts. Students will also learn how to converse on a variety of topics in English. Pronunciation and intonation will also be addressed.
HYBRID COURSE
ZESL 020 600 $25
29 Sessions, Hybrid Course
Tues. & Thurs. 2/7 - 5/25, 6:15 - 8:15 p.m.
No class 3/14, 3/16 & 4/11
Classes will meet on campus, ADM 106,
3/30, 4/4, 4/13, 5/11 & 5/23
For hybrid course only
Required textbooks: English for Everyone: English Grammar Practice Book: An ESL Beginner Grammar Workbook for Adults ISBN: 978-1-4654-8466-6 and English the American Way: A Fun Guide to English Language 2nd Edition ISBN: 0738606766. Students will need to pay for their books.
Irene Cruz, Instructor
OFF CAMPUS
ZESL 020 601 $25
29 Sessions, Colonie Library
Tues. & Thurs. 2/7 - 5/25, 1 -3 p.m.
No class 3/14, 3/15 & 4/11
Michelle Soule, Instructor
ESL - Level II
This course is designed for high-beginning/low-intermediate-level English language learners. Some knowledge of English is required. Students will be introduced to high-beginning/low-intermediate-level grammar and writing strategies. Paragraph organization, formal letter and business writing will also be addressed. Required textbook: A Long Walk to Water ISBN 978-0547577319 Students will need to pay for their own book.
ZESL 021 600 $25
29 Sessions, Remote Course
Tues. & Thurs. 2/7 - 5/25, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
No class 3/14, 3/15 & 4/11
Shauna Anderson, Instructor
ESL - Level III
This course focuses on all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn reading strategies to improve their comprehension of English texts and practice several writing patterns. Activities related to the same content will improve students’ listening comprehension and speaking fluency. In addition, proper grammar, spelling, and academic vocabulary will be addressed.
ZESL 022 600 $25
29 Sessions, Remote Course
Tues. & Thurs. 2/7 - 5/25, 3 - 5 p.m.
No class 3/14, 3/15 & 4/11
Shauna Anderson, Instructor
ESL - Level IV
This course is a continuation of ESL Level III and will focus on all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn reading strategies to improve their comprehension of English texts and practice several writing patterns. Activities related to the same content will improve students’ listening comprehension and speaking fluency. In addition, proper grammar, spelling, and academic vocabulary will be addressed. Successful completion of the course will prepare students for college-level coursework.
ZESL 023 600 $25
28 Sessions, Remote Course
Weds. & Fri. 2/8 - 5/26
Wednesday Classes meet 4:45 – 5:45 p.m.
Friday Classes meet 9 a.m. - Noon
No class 3/1, 3/15, 3/17 & 4/7
Shauna Anderson, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZESL-017 600 | 47 seats left | $0 |
Getting Paid to Talk
Have you ever been told you have a great voice? From audio books and cartoons to documentaries, commercials and more, this class will introduce you to the growing field of voice-over. Learn how to prepare and where to find work in your area. We’ll discuss industry pros and cons and play samples from working voice professionals. In addition, you’ll have an opportunity to record a short professional script under the direction of our teacher. For more information, please visit https://voicecoaches.com.
Course will be held in Administration Building, Room 106
Creative Voice Development, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, 5/15 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm |
ZCOM-010 600 | 8 seats left | $19 |
Ideas: Mining for Freelance Writing Gold
Aspiring writers wait for inspiration to deliver ideas. Successful writers mine for ideas instead, and they’re rewarded with bylines and paychecks. Learn strategies and action steps for mining ideas that professional writer Pauline Bartel has used profitably in both the magazine and book fields. Ideas are like gold in the freelance writing marketplace, and Pauline will help you discover the secrets of tapping into the mother lode. Course includes a $15 materials fee.
This is a remote course via Zoom.
Pauline Bartel, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 4/22 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm |
ZCOM-096 600 | 19 seats left | $65 |
Instant Italian
This dynamic course will teach you how to express yourself comfortably in Italian. You’ll learn practical, everyday words. You’ll read, hear and practice dialogues based on typical situations that you’re likely to encounter if you plan to vacation in Italy. The dialogues and follow-up exercises of each lesson will teach you to communicate in Italian in a wide variety of settings. You’ll be surprised by how quickly and easily you can learn many useful expressions in Italian. This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 – 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-061 600 | 12 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-061 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-061 602 | 14 seats left | $115 |
Introduction to Screenwriting for Television or Movies
In this comprehensive session, you will learn about special screenwriting terms and formats for television and the big screen. You will also learn how to plot a story, develop characters, and execute your work in the proper screenwriting format. You will discover the difference between a treatment, a spec script and a shooting script, and when to do each. And, you’ll get an inside look into the business of selling your script to agents and producers. Course includes a $5 materials fee.
This is a remote course via Zoom.
LeeAnne Krusemark, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 3/11 1:00 pm - 1:55 pm |
ZCOM-041 600 | 17 seats left | $29 |
Spanish for Law Enforcement
With more and more Spanish-speaking people living in the United States every year, learning the Spanish language is becoming ever more important. In the law enforcement field, mastering basic Spanish will give you more skill to handle situations involving Spanish-speaking individuals. Adding Spanish skills to your resume can also open doors to new job opportunities. This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 – 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-070 600 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-070 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-070 602 | 15 seats left | $115 |
Speed Spanish
Imagine yourself speaking, reading and writing Spanish. Now you can! This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn Spanish, pronto. You’ll learn six easy recipes for gluing Spanish words together to form sentences. In no time at all, you’ll be able to go into any Spanish speaking situation and converse in Spanish. ¡Qué bueno! This course is taught online through our partnership with Ed2go. To log into your online classroom, please visit www.ed2go.com/hvcc and select My Classroom. Please note, it may take 24 – 48 hours before your registered course appears in My Classroom.
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online, 2/15 - 4/7 | ZILC-063 600 | 10 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 3/15 - 5/5 | ZILC-063 601 | 15 seats left | $115 | |
| Online, 4/12 - 6/2 | ZILC-063 602 | 15 seats left | $115 |
Course Categories
Additional Resources
Some courses require that students are prepared with information beyond that in the course description - including how to access online courses, parking, CEU details and more.
Here you will find forms for all of our courses and programs, including kids on campus, related to registration, consent and release, scholarship requests and more.
Cancellation and refund policies vary depending on the type and length of course. Find out about course cancellations, requesting a refund and more.
Get in Touch
Community and Professional Education
Fax: (518) 629-8103
Regular Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Summer Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
(excluding college holidays and vacations)