What to expect while majoring in Russian Studies in the US?

I'm considering a major in Russian Studies and wondering what the field is like in US colleges. What kind of coursework and opportunities should I expect? Is this a growing field with ample resources and community?

Studying Russian Studies in US colleges typically means you'll dive into an interdisciplinary curriculum blending history, writing, culture, literature, and the Russian language itself. Expect courses in Russian history, prominent Russian literature, such as works by Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, and Chekhov, as well as modern Russian politics and society.

Being proficient in a foreign language like Russian can be beneficial for several career paths. From academia to translation, government work, and international business, your skills can prove valuable in an ever-globalizing world.

As an undergrad, you should have plenty of opportunities to engage with the material outside of the classroom. Many colleges house Russian clubs or Slavic student organizations, which offer cultural events, language conversation groups, and other networking opportunities. Depending on the school, study abroad programs in Russia are also quite common and can offer an immersive experience to enhance your language capabilities and cultural understanding.

While it might not be as mainstream as some fields of study, Russian Studies is certainly not diminishing. Many schools offer robust programs with a variety of research and study abroad opportunities for students. Your college's department resources and facilities, as well as the specific faculty expertise, can help determine the quality of the program.

Keep in mind that a focus on Russian Studies could be complemented well by a double major or minor in a related field, like International Relations, Political Science, History, or even Business. This might also open up further career opportunities post-graduation. Look into schools that have strong programs in both Russian Studies and your other field of interest, to maximize your academic experience.