Russian is the world’s eighth most spoken language, used in nine countries by over 144 million people. A gateway to a fascinating literary, cultural and scientific heritage, Russian is also a strategically and economically important Critical Language, with applications in fields including air and space, information technology, nuclear studies, security studies, and many others.
Russian Studies offers instruction in the beginning to upper-intermediate levels of Russian language, as well as subjects in Russian literature, history, and political science. The curriculum prepares students to communicate effectively with native speakers and acquaints students with Russian culture and civilization, holistically preparing them to function successfully in a Russian-speaking environment. Russian classes prepare students to participate in international experiences such as MIT-Russia.
Russian Studies may be applied to the Russian Concentration, and to the Concentration, minor and major in Russian and Eurasian Studies. Learn more about the Russian Concentration requirements at the Academic Programs page. Information on the Russian and Eurasian Studies Concentration, minor and major is available through SHASS. Advisors for these programs are below. Students uncertain what level of Russian language to take should refer to placement information. Information on transfer credit is available here.
Russian Concentration: Maria Khotimsky
Russian and Eurasian Studies Minor and Major: Elizabeth Wood
Global Languages Russian Studies group: Maria Khotimsky | Sophia Verba
Fall 2023
| 21G.S61 | Special Subject: Russian I (Hybrid) |
| 21G.S63 | Special Subject: Russian III (Hybrid) |
| 21G.014 | Introduction to Russian Politics and Society |
| 21G.085 | Imperial and Revolutionary Russia: Culture and Politics, 1700-1917 |
21G.014 Introduction to Russian politics and society: First-Year Discovery
Introduces students to contemporary Russia through analysis of major political, social, and cultural trends and addresses how they have developed due to the invasion of Ukraine. Considers the role of identity, state propaganda, civil society — including those in exile — and music both as an instrument of political power and popular resistance. Study materials include academic and media articles, recent documentaries, and video interviews with prominent figures in Russian science and culture. Limited to 15 people. 3 units of “discovery” credit.
IAP 2024
| 21G.611 | Russian I |
| 21G.S08 | Introduction to Ukrainian Language and Culture |
Introduces students to the foundations of Ukrainian language (the alphabet, reading, writing, and basic grammar) and essential communication skills. Surveys topics in Ukrainian history, culture, national identity, and the struggle for independence. Explores key cultural figures, traditions, music, visual arts, holidays, and food (cultural component is taught in English). 9 units of HASS credit.
Spring 2024
| 21G.S62 | Special Subject: Russian II (Hybrid) |
| 21G.S64 | Special Subject: Russian IV (Hybrid) |
| 21G.615 | Russian V: Russian for STEM |
| 21G.077/21G.618 | Introduction to the Classics of Russian Literature |
| 21G.086 | Soviet and Post-Soviet Politics and Society: 1917 to the Present |
STATEMENT ON UKRAINE:
“We, the faculty and staff in MIT Russian and Eurasian Studies, condemn Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine who are being invaded and occupied in this unjustified war of aggression and with the people of Russia who oppose the war.“