Russian Studies, MA (Hons)

Approximately 150 million people worldwide speak Russian, an official language in four countries and widely understood in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with large communities in China, the US, Israel, and Western Europe.This flexible four-year programme, the oldest of its kind in Scotland and introduced at Edinburgh in 1949, builds advanced Russian skills—from beginner level—in speaking, writing, reading, listening, and translation. Students explore Russophone literature, culture, history, and politics, with honours options in comparative literature, sociolinguistics, and Soviet/Post-Soviet studies. Pre-honours years offer broad options; Year 3 is abroad for immersion; Year 4 includes specialization and a dissertation. Edinburgh's vibrant festival scene enhances learning, fostering fluency, intercultural expertise, and access to exceptional libraries for careers globally.