The MA (Hons) in Russian teaches you to use Russian with sound grammatical accuracy and a high level of oral aptitude. In addition to language teaching, you will gain a deeper and more diverse understanding and appreciation of Russian-language cultures, histories and societies through modules dedicated to literature, film, cultural history, and contemporary society.

Russian at St Andrews uses a specially designed language teaching programme that caters both for students who have already studied Russian as a main subject at school and for absolute beginners. Upon completing the degree, you will have an excellent command of the Russian language and be familiar with the Russian-speaking world.

During your degree, you have the opportunity to apply to spend time studying abroad in a Russian-speaking country. Studying abroad is not compulsory, but is strongly recommended as the best way to master the language and to better know the country. On a four-year degree, students can spend one semester in a Russian-speaking country. The MA (Hons) in Russian is also available as a five-year course with an integrated year abroad when students spend time studying in a Russian-speaking country between their second and third years.

It is possible for students applying for the MA (Hons) in Russian to study abroad in a Russian-speaking country between their second and third year of study. This adds an extra year to the MA (Hons) course, making it a total of five years in length.

Students who spend a year abroad develop their linguistic skills, intercultural competence, and self-confidence.

There are no teaching assistantships or other work placements available for students of Russian choosing the integrated year abroad programme. Instead, students spend their year studying on an academic programme in a Russian-speaking country.