Bachelor of Arts in Russian Studies

Our students become adaptable critical thinkers who understand Russian language, literature and culture and are prepared for careers as educators, analysts, business managers, journalists and interpreter or translators.

Russian studies students gain unique insight into a region of the world that is highly important in global culture, business and arts. Our students explore Russian language, literature and culture, preparing them for careers in an increasingly global world. Students are able to combine their language training with interdisciplinary study of the Russian region.

  • Learn to read, write, speak and understand Russian
  • Explore the historical context of Russian literature and culture
  • Be prepared for a career in international government, business or social services

Learn the official language of 148 million people in the Russian Federation

Join a variety of cultural enrichment events, such as field trips and musical offerings, to enhance your studies and connect with peers

Practice your language skills in our six-week study abroad trip to St. Petersburg, Russia

Be successful.

Specialized knowledge of Russia gives graduates an edge in the global job market. Be prepared to meet the needs of our 21st-century society by applying your expertise to a variety of careers.

 
$52,100

Median salary of CU Boulder Russian studies students 1–5 years after graduation

 

Foreign language teacher, analyst, business manager, journalist or correspondent and interpreter or translator are common opportunities for graduates

 

Work for international businesses, nonprofits and NGOs, or in journalism, politics, government, publishing and education

Academic Plan & Requirements

In addition to fulfilling the requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences, students must complete at least 30 credit hours in Russian studies.

Students structure their curriculum in close consultation with a departmental advisor and choose one of three program tracks:

  • Russian language and culture
  • Russian culture and literature 
  • Russian major for heritage speakers

Additional degree options for students in Russian studies include: 

  • Bachelor’s-accelerated master’s: A combined bachelor's (BA) and master's (MA) degree is offered for highly motivated undergraduate students. The BA/MA program allows students to take advanced courses at an accelerated pace, engage in an independent research project and obtain both degrees in five years.
  • Double major: Students pursuing the BA in Russian studies are encouraged to consider a double major to increase their career opportunities. For example, if you are preparing for a career in government, business or social services, you will benefit from a combination of Russian studies and political science, international affairs, business or psychology. 

Community & Involvement

We strive to create a warm and friendly environment for students to network with peers and faculty, further their studies, and get the most out of their undergraduate experience.

Be inspired.

The Russian studies major has an extensive list of alumni working in a variety of fields across the globe.

Some alumni of the program include:

Adam Littleton

(BA'07)
An instructor at the College of Business and Communication in Nagasaki, Japan. His debut novel, American Baroque, was published in 2015.

Elise Crane

(BA'06)
A diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service.

Forrest Kutscher

(BA'13)
A policy specialist at Google.

News & Stories

College of Arts & Sciences magazine cover