Russian Studies and Philosophy, MA (Hons)

Course summary

Around 150 million people in the world speak Russian. It is the official language of four countries, is widely understood throughout Eastern Europe, and in the last thirty years has seen transnational mobility on an unprecedented scale.Philosophy has been at the core of Western intellectual life for at least 2,500 years. Studying Russian and Philosophy together helps you understand the contemporary world, as well as shedding light on the past. RussianOn this joint honours programme, you have the opportunity to develop advanced speaking, writing, reading, listening and translating skills in Russian. Our Year 1 Russian courses are streamed according to how much of the language you already know, so it does not matter if you are a complete beginner. Over the course of your four years, you will explore Russian literature and culture, past and present. You will also develop an awareness of Russia's international political and historical contexts. PhilosophyStudying philosophy allows you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner. Philosophy:

• introduces you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present

• illuminates the connections between diverse areas of human experience

• makes you more aware of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

Why EdinburghThe University of Edinburgh has been giving lectures in Russian Studies since 1919, with a degree course introduced in 1949. We also have a strong historic connection to philosophy, counting Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton among our former students. Our four-year programme gives you choice and flexibility. In Years 1 and 2, as well as your core subjects, you can choose option courses from a range of disciplines. You will then specialise as you move through your honours years.When you graduate, you will have the combination of language and humanities skills, and the international perspective, valued by employers worldwide.

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