New Russian Studies Major Opens International Doors

A new bachelor of arts degree in Russian studies at the University of Rochester will expand opportunities for graduates in Russia and Eastern Europe.

In the new interdisciplinary major, students combine the social sciences and the humanities. Coursework includes Russian language, literature, history, religion, economics and political science. Students in other majors have the option of double- majoring, minoring in Russian studies, or taking one of the new three-course clusters that this program will offer. The new major and minor join an existing degree in Russian language and culture and replace the certificate program in Russian studies.

Kathleen Parth‚, associate professor of Russian and director of the Russian Studies Program, and other faculty are planning a lecture series to launch the major. "Transforming States" will feature leading Western experts on the changing economic, legal, and foreign policy structures in Russia, Ukraine, and neighboring areas.

"This should be of genuine interest not only to our students and faculty, but also to the broader Rochester community, which is ethnically diverse as well as deeply involved in international business," Parth‚ said.

During the past two years, Rochester Russian students have taken advantage of summer study and internships in St. Petersburg arranged through the Russian Studies Program. Some students have gone on to work in businesses, international schools and relief organizations in the Russian Republic. Others work for U.S. corporations, non-profits, and government agencies that deal with Russia.

The new major simplifies scheduling for those who wish to combine a number of different approaches to the study of this area. The University's nationally recognized offerings in political science and economics, combined with a strong program in Russian language, literature, and history, form a major that allows Rochester students greater access to a dynamic and important part of the world.