Russian Language and Literature
Overview
Programs in Russian language and literature teach people the spoken and written traditions of Russia.Russian language and literature programs include topics such as:
- Reading, writing, and speaking Russian
- Art
- History
- Russian society and culture
- Translation techniques
- Literature and poetry
- Folklore and film
- Dialects
- Linguistics
Concentrations
In Russian language and literature programs, students may be able to specialize in:
- Conversation
- Interpreting
- Literature and literary criticism
- Teaching
Schools
Community colleges offer associate degree programs in Russian language and literature. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.
Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in Russian language and literature. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.
Several universities offer graduate degrees in Russian language and literature. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Central and Eastern European Languages and Literature
- Central and Eastern European Studies
- Linguistics
- Russian Studies
- Second Language, General
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- European History
- Humanities
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies
- Political Science
- Second Language
- World Area Studies
- World Geography
- World History
Graduate Admissions
Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores. In addition, you must be able to speak, read, write, and understand Russian at an advanced level.
Additional requirements at some schools include:
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
- Undergraduate degree or significant course work in Russian literature
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Academic writing sample
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Applied Phonetics
- Civilization and Cultural History
- Conversation and Composition
- Linguistics
- Literary Studies
- Literature, Film, and Folklore
- Reading and Speaking Skills
- Translation
- Study in the Russian language or its dialects (beginning, intermediate, advanced)
Graduate Program Courses
Graduate programs in Russian language and literature typically require:
- Required courses
- Thesis (master's degree)
- Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
- Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)
Things to Know
Colleges that do not offer programs in Russian language and literature may offer elective courses or certificates as part of a major in interdisciplinary studies or liberal arts. Many programs offer certificates at the graduate level as well.
Students who major in Russian language and literature may be required or encouraged to spend some time living, working, and studying abroad. Most programs coordinate semester abroad or work internships. In most cases, you can participate in these after you have completed at least two years of language study.
Schools
East Side Area
Central Washington University
- Russian Studies
King-Snohomish Area
University of Washington - Seattle
- Slavic Languages & Literatures--Russian Language, Literature, & Culture Option
- Slavic Languages and Literatures
Tacoma Area
Pacific Lutheran University
- Russian Endorsement (Grades P-12)
West Side Area
Grays Harbor College
- Foreign Languages Pre-Major