Russian Studies and Philosophy - MA (Hons)

The University of Edinburgh

Studying Russian and Philosophy together helps you understand the contemporary world, and also sheds light on the past. Philosophy has been at the core of Western intellectual life for at least 2,500 years. A number of philosophical movements originated in Russia, and many Russian-speaking writers are also widely known as philosophers. Today, around 270 million people in the world speak Russian. It is the official language of four countries, and is widely understood throughout Eastern Europe and Central Asia. There are also large communities of Russian-speakers in China, the United States, Israel and Western Europe.

On this joint honours programme, you have the opportunity to develop advanced speaking, writing, reading, listening and translating skills in Russian. Our Year 1 and Year 2 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 when you join us. You also have the option to take a course in Ukrainian Language and Cultures in Year 2. You will explore Russian and Russian-speaking (Russophone) literature and culture, past and present. You will also develop an awareness of Russia's international political and historical contexts.

Studying philosophy will: * allow you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner * introduce you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present * illuminate the connections between diverse areas of human experience * raise your awareness of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

As a world-leading festival and capital city, Edinburgh is a fantastic place to study a language in its cultural context. The University of Edinburgh has been giving lectures in Russian Studies since 1919, with a degree course introduced in 1949; the first of its kind in Scotland. We also have a strong historic connection to philosophy, counting Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton among our former students. Today, graduating with a degree in Russian Studies and Philosophy gives you the combination of language and humanities skills and an international perspective valued by employers worldwide.

* Study over four years, giving you the choice and flexibility to try out different things. * Go abroad for the first of your honours years - Year 3. * Build up to fluency in the Russian language and specialise in different aspects of Russian studies and philosophy as you move through your degree. * Explore fantastic libraries and collections at the University and in the city. * Join societies, attend events, and try your hand at creative writing, publishing and more. * Gain the skills and confidence for life after university.